The Different Types of Gold
Gold has long been treasured for its beauty, rarity, and value. Whether you're shopping for jewelry or investing in precious metals, understanding the differences between solid gold, gold filled, gold vermeil, and gold plated can help you make informed decisions. In this blog post, we'll break down these terms and explore the pros and cons of each option.
Solid Gold
What is it? Solid gold, often referred to as "pure gold," is made entirely of gold and is not mixed with any other metals. The purity of solid gold is measured in karats, with 24 karats being the highest and purest form.
Pros:
- High value and resale potential
- Hypoallergenic for most people
- Doesn't tarnish or fade over time
Cons:
- Expensive
- Soft and can be easily scratched or dented
- Higher karat gold (e.g., 24k) is too soft for most jewelry.
Gold Filled
What is it? Gold filled jewelry is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal (usually brass or copper) through heat and pressure. The gold content in gold filled jewelry is significantly higher than in gold plated jewelry.
Pros:
- More affordable than solid gold
- Durable and long-lasting
- Can be polished and cleaned without wearing away the gold layer
Cons:
- Not as valuable as solid gold
- May cause skin reactions in some people with metal allergies
Gold Vermeil
What is it? Gold vermeil is a type of gold plating, but with a thicker layer of gold applied to sterling silver. To be considered vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick.
Pros:
- Luxurious appearance of gold at a fraction of the cost
- More durable than regular gold plating
- Suitable for people with sensitive skin (provided they are not allergic to silver)
Cons:
- Requires special care to maintain the gold layer
- Over time, the gold layer may wear off, revealing the silver underneath
Gold Plated
What is it? Gold plated jewelry is made by covering a base metal with a thin layer of gold through a process of electroplating. The gold layer in gold plated jewelry is much thinner than in gold filled or gold vermeil jewelry.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Wide variety of styles and designs available
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
Cons:
- Prone to tarnishing, fading, and wearing off over time
- Not suitable for everyday wear or long-term use
- May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions due to the base metals used
How to decide?
Choosing between solid gold, gold filled, gold vermeil, and gold plated jewelry depends on your budget, style preferences, and how you plan to wear and care for the jewelry. Gold filled and gold vermeil provide a more affordable option without compromising too much on quality. Gold plated jewelry, on the other hand, is best suited for occasional wear and may require more frequent replacement due to its lower durability. All three of these options are usually reserved for Fashion Jewelry and are generally set with synthetic or imitation stones.
At Milano, we pride ourselves on offering our customers Solid 14K and 18K gold options. Soldi gold offers the highest value, durability and comfort. We believe if you are shopping to celebrate a milestone, special occasion or a gift for loved ones, Solid Gold is the way to go.
No matter which option you choose, it's essential to care for your gold jewelry properly to maintain its beauty and longevity. Regular cleaning, storing jewelry in a safe place, and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals can help prolong the life of your gold pieces, ensuring they continue to shine for years to come.
