Understanding the Differences: Gold Filled, Gold Vermeil, Solid Gold, and Gold-Plated Jewellery
When it comes to choosing the perfect piece of jewellery, understanding the various types of gold finishes can help you make an informed decision. At Weld™ we offer high-quality gold-filled, gold vermeil, and solid gold charms, each with unique characteristics that make them special. Unlike standard gold-plated jewellery, which tarnishes quickly, our selections are designed to offer both beauty and durability. Let's explore the differences between these popular options:
Gold Filled Jewellery
Gold-filled jewellery is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality piece without the solid gold price tag. It consists of a thick layer of gold, typically 5% of the total weight, mechanically bonded to a base metal, usually brass. This process creates a durable, long-lasting piece that can withstand daily wear without tarnishing. Gold-filled jewellery is hypoallergenic and offers a beautiful, radiant finish that closely resembles solid gold.
Benefits of Gold Filled:
- Affordable alternative to solid gold
- Durable and resistant to tarnishing
- Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin
- Retains the appearance of solid gold
Whereas we love working with Gold Filled for our chains and charms whenever possible, unfortunately there are limited Gold-Filled supplies available on the market.
The reason for this is that gold filled pieces cannot be cast (casting by definition is melting the metal material in to a mould, this would melt the layers of metal together) Therefore, gold filled charms can only be made from sheet, tube or wire that retain the separate layers of brass and gold. For this reason, there are major limitation in the types of charms that can be manufactured.
Gold Vermeil Jewellery
Gold vermeil (pronounced "ver-may") is another high-quality option, characterised by a thick layer of gold plated over sterling silver. To be classified as vermeil in the UK, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick. This method ensures a luxurious look and feel while being more affordable than solid gold. Gold vermeil is perfect for those who want the elegance of gold with the added benefit of sterling silver’s durability.
Benefits of Gold Vermeil:
- Luxurious appearance at a fraction of the cost
- Thick layer of gold for enhanced durability
- Underlying sterling silver base for strength
- Ideal for those with metal allergies
Solid Gold Jewellery
Solid gold jewellery is the epitome of luxury and timelessness. It is made entirely of gold, with purity levels typically ranging from 9k to 24k. The higher the karat, the purer the gold. Solid gold is highly resistant to tarnish, making it an excellent option for Permanent Jewellery.
Benefits of Solid Gold:
- Highest value and intrinsic worth
- Extremely durable and tarnish-resistant
- Suitable for heirloom and investment pieces
- Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin
One thing to consider when choosing solid gold for your Permanent Jewellery pieces is the hallmarking regulations attached to selling precious metals in the UK. For more information have a read through our Hallmarking Guidelines blog post where we delve a little deeper in to this.
Why We Don’t Sell Standard Gold-Plated Jewellery
While gold-plated jewellery can be visually appealing, it is not as durable as gold-filled or gold vermeil pieces. Standard gold plating involves a thin layer of gold electroplated onto a base metal, which can wear off quickly, leading to tarnishing and a less attractive appearance over time. At Weld™ we prioritise quality and longevity, which is why we do not offer standard gold-plated jewellery. Our customers deserve pieces that maintain their beauty and integrity for years to come.
Key Differences:
- Gold Filled: Thick gold layer bonded to base metal, highly durable. Limited options available
- Gold Vermeil: Thick gold layer over sterling silver, luxurious and strong. Not quite as long lasting as filled but a more luxurious option as it is a precious metal over precious metal.
- Solid Gold: Pure gold, highest value and durability
- Gold Plated: Thin gold layer, prone to tarnishing and wear
In summary, whether you choose gold-filled, gold vermeil, or solid gold, you can be confident in the quality and durability of your jewellery. Each type offers unique benefits to suit different needs and preferences. At Weld™ we are committed to providing beautiful pieces that your customers will adore for many years.
Explore our collection today and find the perfect charm to add a touch of elegance to your welded jewellery creations!