Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated: What's the Difference?

 

When it comes to choosing between gold vermeil and gold plated jewellery, it's essential to understand the key differences to make an informed decision. Let's delve into the educational comparison to help you grasp the nuances of these popular options.

What is Gold Vermeil?

Gold vermeil is a high-quality type of jewellery where a thick layer of gold is bonded to sterling silver. The gold layer in vermeil jewellery must be at least 2.5 microns thick, making it more durable and long-lasting compared to regular gold-plated pieces.

What is Gold Plated Jewellery?

Gold plated jewellery, on the other hand, features a thin layer of gold electroplated over a base metal such as brass or copper. The gold layer in gold plated jewellery is typically around 0.5 microns thick, which is significantly thinner than that of gold vermeil.

Thickness of Gold Layer

Gold vermeil boasts a thicker gold layer, providing better quality and longevity. With a minimum thickness of 2.5 microns, gold vermeil jewellery offers a more substantial gold coating compared to the thinner layer found in gold plated pieces.

Base Metals Used

Gold vermeil is crafted using sterling silver as the base metal, which is known for its durability and hypoallergenic properties. In contrast, gold plated jewellery often uses base metals like brass or copper, which may tarnish over time and can cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Durability and Tarnish Resistance

Due to its thicker gold layer and sterling silver base, gold vermeil jewellery is more durable and tarnish-resistant than gold plated pieces. The higher quality materials used in gold vermeil make it a better choice for everyday wear, as it can withstand regular use without losing its shine.

Price Points

While gold vermeil jewellery may come at a slightly higher price point than gold plated pieces, the investment is worth it for the superior quality and longevity it offers. The added durability and tarnish resistance of gold vermeil make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Which is Better for Everyday Wear?

When it comes to everyday wear, gold vermeil is the superior choice due to its thicker gold layer, sterling silver base, durability, and tarnish resistance. Investing in gold vermeil jewellery, such as 18k gold over sterling silver pieces, ensures that your accessories will maintain their beauty and quality for years to come.