When it comes to gold jewellery, the terms “gold vermeil” and “gold plated” are often used, but they represent different qualities and characteristics. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision about which type suits your needs best. Here’s a closer look at gold vermeil versus gold plated jewellery, including what makes each unique.
What is Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil (pronounced "ver-may") is a high-quality type of gold plating applied to sterling silver. To be classified as gold vermeil, certain standards must be met:
- Base Metal: It uses sterling silver as the base, which is 92.5% pure silver.
- Gold Layer: The gold layer must be at least 10 karats and have a thickness of at least 2.5 microns. At Pupari, gold vermeil pieces are plated in 18 karat gold with a gold layer of 3.5 microns. This thickness is five times greater than standard gold plating, ensuring a longer-lasting quality.
- Durability: Due to its thicker gold layer, gold vermeil is more durable and resistant to tarnishing compared to gold plated jewellery.
Gold vermeil jewellery offers the luxurious look of gold while remaining more affordable than solid gold, thanks to its base of sterling silver.
What is Gold Plated Jewellery?
Gold plated jewellery involves applying a thin layer of gold over a base metal. Here’s what to know about gold plating:
- Base Metal: This can include various metals such as brass, copper, or stainless steel.
- Gold Layer: The gold layer is typically much thinner than in gold vermeil, often less than 0.5 microns.
- Durability: Due to its thin layer, gold plated jewellery is generally less durable and more prone to wear and tarnishing over time.
Gold plating provides a gold appearance at a lower cost but may not stand up to frequent wear as well as gold vermeil.
Key Differences Between Gold Vermeil and Gold Plated
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Thickness of Gold Layer: Gold vermeil features a significantly thicker gold layer (3.5 microns in the case of Pupari) compared to gold plated jewellery, which usually has a much thinner layer (less than 0.5 microns). This difference affects both appearance and durability.
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Base Metal: Gold vermeil uses sterling silver, a more resistant material compared to the base metals used in gold plated jewellery, which might include brass or copper.
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Durability: Gold vermeil is typically more durable and less likely to tarnish due to its thicker gold layer and sterling silver base. Gold plated jewellery may show signs of wear and peeling more quickly.
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Cost: Gold vermeil tends to be more expensive than gold plated jewellery because of the higher quality base metal and thicker gold layer. However, it remains more affordable than solid gold.
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Care and Maintenance: Gold vermeil requires similar care to solid gold, including gentle cleaning and avoiding harsh chemicals. Gold plated jewellery may need more frequent maintenance to keep it looking good.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Here are some factors to consider when choosing between gold vermeil and gold plated jewellery:
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Durability: If you want a piece that will withstand daily wear and last longer, gold vermeil is the better option due to its thicker gold layer and durable sterling silver base.
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Allergies: For those with sensitive skin or metal allergies, gold vermeil may be preferable since it uses sterling silver, which is less likely to cause reactions compared to other metals used in gold plating.
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Style and Usage: Think about how often the jewellery will be worn. Gold vermeil is ideal for everyday wear due to its durability, while gold plated pieces might be more suitable for occasional use or special events.
Conclusion
Gold vermeil and gold plated jewellery both offer ways to enjoy the beauty of gold without the cost of solid gold. Gold vermeil, especially with its 3.5-micron 18 karat gold layer, stands out for its durability and quality, making it a great choice for those looking for a lasting investment. Gold plated jewellery, while more affordable, may not be as durable and could require more frequent replacement.
Understanding these differences can help in choosing the right piece that fits your style, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the enduring quality of gold vermeil or the accessible charm of gold plated jewellery, you can find a piece that adds elegance to your collection.