Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated – Which Should You Choose?
When shopping for gold jewelry, you’ll often see the terms “gold vermeil” and “gold plated”. These are two common techniques for creating jewelry with a gold finish over base metals. But what exactly is the difference between gold vermeil vs plated? Which offers better quality and value?
What is Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil is a specific type of gold plating that uses a thicker layer of gold than typical plated pieces.
To create vermeil:
- A base metal (often sterling silver) is coated with a layer of gold that is at least 2.5 microns thick. This is roughly 100 times thicker than regular plating.
- The gold used must be a minimum of 10K purity. Most vermeil uses 14K or 18K gold.
- The thickness and purity requirements qualify it as “rolled gold” rather than plating.
This process allows the gold finish to be more durable and longer-lasting compared to regular plating. While not as luxurious as solid gold, vermeil offers a step-up in quality from plated jewelry.
What is Gold Plated Jewelry?
Gold plated jewelry involves applying a micro-thin layer of gold (often as little as 0.05 microns) onto the surface of non-precious metals like brass or nickel.
The plating process includes:
- Preparing the base metal piece.
- Applying gold solution via electroplating.
- Curing and polishing the finished piece.
The resulting gold finish is very thin, which minimizes cost but also durability. The plating can wear off with regular use, exposing the base metal underneath.
Vermeil vs. Plated – Which is Better?
Gold vermeil generally offers better quality and value than regular gold plated jewelry. Here are some key differences:
- Vermeil uses over 100 times more gold than plated, making it much more durable and longer-lasting.
- The base metals for vermeil are often higher quality as well (i.e. sterling silver).
- Vermeil maintains its shine and luster over time compared to plated pieces.
- While vermeil is pricier than plating, it offers great value for the money.
- Vermeil meets legal standards for gold purity and thickness. Plated jewelry does not.
So if you’re looking for affordable gold jewelry that will hold up to regular wear, gold vermeil is typically the better investment over gold plated pieces.
Caring for Vermeil and Plated Jewelry
To extend the lifespan of both vermeil and plated jewelry:
- Avoid wearing it while cleaning with harsh chemicals.
- Apply lotion, perfume, and sprays first before putting on the jewelry.
- Clean periodically with a soft cloth.
- Store pieces in a fabric-lined box or pouch to avoid scratches.
- Take off vermeil and plated jewelry before swimming or showering.
With some care, you can enjoy your gold finish pieces for many years to come!
The Takeaway
For high-quality gold layered jewelry, gold vermeil is the clear winner over regular plated pieces. While not solid gold, vermeil offers greater value, durability, and longevity of wear. Take these factors into account when investing in gold jewelry to find the right balance of affordability and quality for your needs.
FAQs about Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated
Gold vermeil is of a higher quality than gold-plated jewelry. Gold vermeil and gold-plated jewelry are often compared, as they are quite similar. But there’s an important difference between the two: gold vermeil is of much higher quality than regular gold plating, ensuring your jewelry is made to last.
Most experts would consider it to be among the best substitutes for solid gold jewelry. You can also expect it to stay in good condition for a relatively long time with basic care. Gold-filled jewelry is another option to keep in mind, although it may be more expensive.
Both gold filled and gold vermeil can last for years with proper care. In fact, both gold filled and gold vermeil are more durable than other gold plated options – making both ideal for creating staple gold necklaces and gold bracelets for daily wear.
Vermeil is considered the best 14k gold alternative because it has a base of sterling silver, not brass or copper like gold plated or gold filled jewelry, and is layered with 100+ mls of 24k gold (that’s a lot of gold!).
