Gold Vermeil - Gold Plated - Gold Filled & Their Differences

Gold Vermeil and Gold-Plated jewelry are similar but not exactly the same. They ARE both plated with 14k or 18k gold.

Gold Vermeil is usually sterling silver plated with a layer of real gold and typically has a slightly thicker layer than gold-plated jewelry. There are no manufacturing regulations meaning that layer of gold could be super thin than the norm and compromise within a few months.

Gold-plated jewelry is of lesser quality than vermeil because it does not use silver as the base metal. Usually, the base metal is brass, nickel, sometimes stainless steel, and the layer of gold plating is thinner.

Just because gold vermeil typically has a thicker layer of gold doesn't always mean the gold will last longer or take longer to rub off over time. Sometimes it takes one flaw in the plating process that you can't see can cause it to chip at any time resulting in quicker degradation.

Some of the greatest misconceptions as of late with fashion jewelry (aka fast fashion) is that gold plated jewelry can be made waterproof. While there is an extra step in the process of making "waterproof" plated gold jewelry to extend its life, ultimately it does not mean the jewelry is in fact waterproof.

Physical Vapor Deposition, or PVD, is a vacuum coating process that is the newest gold plating option. It uses titanium nitride that provides an extremely durable coating. PVD coatings are more resistant to corrosion from sweat and regular wear than gold plating. This coating is not permanent and wears off over time as its exposed to an array of elements. All it does is extend the life of gold-plated jewelry a little longer than normal by having an extra layer.

WHAT IS 14k GOLD-FILLED?

14k gold-filled is a USA standard requiring at least 5% solid gold mechanically bonded to the base metal. It’s a strictly regulated process that involves pressure bonding multiple layers of solid 14k gold with extreme heat. Which makes this the best quality and affordable option next to solid gold.

WHY WE DON'T USE VERMEIL & GOLD-PLATED?

They are short term jewelry choices also known as "fast fashion." They are not eco-friendly, and a huge waste of your money.

Our ideal choice in "fashion jewelry" is to make sure it's not degradable. We want to offer quality pieces made of quality components. Fashion jewelry for us means using semi-precious stones that can stand the test of time requiring very little inexpensive maintenance throughout the years. 

Consider sterling silver and/or 14k gold-filled as your preference if solid gold options are not feasible. These will last you a long time if not a lifetime when properly taken care of.  Be aware where your hard-earned money lands, many vermeil and gold-plated jewelry are often priced the same as fine metals.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST

It's best to adopt the mindset that no jewelry is waterproof. That includes all carat solid gold, platinum, etc. While exposing even fine metals to any elements isn't going to really hurt your jewelry, it will require more frequent cleanings. Exposing to water that contains chlorine, salt water, lotions, perfumes, etc. do contribute to build up and reduces its shine. Overall making it more time consuming to clean.