Understanding Gold-Covered Jewellery
Not all gold jewellery is solid gold — and that is completely fine! Gold-coated jewellery can be beautiful, affordable, and long-lasting when made to a high standard. The key is knowing the difference between the various types, so you know exactly what you are buying. Corelune Jewellery is here to demystify the terminology.
What Is Gold Plated Jewellery?
Gold plated jewellery has a very thin layer of gold (typically less than 0.5 microns) applied over a base metal such as brass or copper. It is the most affordable option and can look beautiful when new, but the plating can wear off relatively quickly with regular wear, especially at points of friction.
What Is Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil (pronounced "ver-may") is a higher quality version of gold plating. To qualify as vermeil, a piece must have a sterling silver base and a gold coating of at least 2.5 microns thick. Because the base is sterling silver (a precious metal), vermeil is considered a more premium product than standard gold plating, and it will last considerably longer.
What Is Gold Filled Jewellery?
Gold filled jewellery is made by heat-bonding a thick layer of solid gold to a base metal core. The gold layer must constitute at least 5% of the item's total weight. Gold filled jewellery is significantly more durable than plated jewellery and with proper care can last many years. It is an excellent choice for those who want the look of gold without the price tag of solid gold.
Comparing the Three Options
| Type | Gold Layer Thickness | Base Metal | Durability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Plated | <0.5 microns | Any base metal | Low | £ |
| Gold Vermeil | ≥2.5 microns | Sterling silver | Medium | ££ |
| Gold Filled | ≥5% by weight | Any base metal | High | £££ |
| Solid 9ct Gold | 100% gold alloy | N/A | Very High | ££££ |
Have questions about our materials? At Corelune Jewellery, we are always transparent about what goes into every piece we sell.