Types of Gold Jewelry, Explained
There are many different types of jewelry, and this may be confusing and frustrating when you’re trying to buy the right piece. We’ve all been there – buying a necklace that turns your neck green. At Ale Yu, we always make sure you’re getting the right jewelry.
We’ll explain the different types of gold jewelry: gold plated, gold vermeil, gold filled, and solid gold, so you’ll learn which one you should buy.
Gold-plated Jewelry
Gold-plated jewelry has a very fine layer of gold applied to the surface of a base metal, such as copper or brass. It is often more affordable than solid gold jewelry. However, it is also less durable since the gold plating can wear off over time. Especially if it is exposed to harsh cleaning products or chemicals.
How to Take Care of Gold-plated Jewelry
If you want your gold-plated jewelry to last longer, properly caring for it is essential. We have a few tips for you:
Avoid wearing your gold-plated jewelry in the shower or pool.
Don’t apply lotions, perfumes, or other cosmetics while wearing it.
Store it in a soft cloth bag or jewelry box.
Clean your gold-plated jewelry with a mild soap and water solution. As we mentioned above, please avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals. They will damage your jewelry very fast.
Pros and Cons of Gold-plated Jewelry
It is more affordable than solid gold jewelry.
Available in a wide variety of styles and designs.
It can look just as good as solid gold jewelry.
Is Gold-plated Jewelry Worth It?
The answer depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry, then gold-plated jewelry can be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a piece of jewelry for everyday wear without worrying about damaging it, then gold-plated jewelry may not be the best for you.
Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil is a luxurious alternative to solid gold. It is made with a thick layer of gold plated over sterling silver. The plating must be at least ten karat and 2.5 micrometers thick for it to be classified as gold vermeil.
Gold vermeil is more durable, scratch-resistant, and hypoallergenic compared to gold-plated jewelry, and more affordable than solid gold jewelry.
Gold vermeil jewelry is available in a wide variety of styles and designs. From elaborate hoop earrings, necklaces, and bracelets to different colors such as yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold.
Pros and Cons of Gold Vermeil Jewelry
Pro: it’s affordable, hypoallergenic, and available in a variety of colors and designs, so you can choose the one you love the most.
Con: it is of lower quality compared to solid-gold jewelry. It is not as durable, and just like gold-plated jewelry, the gold plating can wear off over a short period.
Is Gold Vermeil Jewelry Worth It?
Gold vermeil jewelry is a good option for those who seek the look and feel of solid gold jewelry without the high price tag. It is also a good option if you are sensitive to metals, as gold vermeil is less likely to cause allergic reactions than gold-plated jewelry.
Gold vermeil is the right option if you’re looking for a piece of jewelry that you can wear daily without damaging it. However, investing in solid gold jewelry is the best choice if you want a piece that will last a lifetime.
Gold-Filled Jewelry
Gold-filled jewelry has almost 100 times more gold than gold-plated jewelry. It is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal. It can’t rub off since the gold is mechanically bonded to the base metal, unlike gold-plated jewelry.
The benefits:
It is much more durable than gold-plated jewelry.
More affordable than solid gold jewelry.
Hypoallergenic
Tarnish resistant and waterproof (you can wear it to the pool!).
Gold-filled jewelry is the best option if you want something affordable and pieces you can wear daily without worrying about tarnish. Gold-filled is also a good option for people on a budget or with sensitive skin.
Is Gold-filled Jewelry Right for You?
As we mentioned above, if you’re looking for something you can wear daily without worrying about damage, gold-filled jewelry is the best for you.
Solid Gold
Solid gold is the highest quality of gold available. It means that the whole piece of jewelry is made of gold, without any base metal. This type of gold is often alloyed with other metals to make it more durable and stronger. Pure gold (24k) is too soft and malleable to be worn in jewelry. That’s why at Ale Yu, we recommend 18k gold jewelry.
The higher the karat, the purer and more expensive the gold is. It is an excellent choice for you if you want durable and long-lasting jewelry pieces. Since gold is hypoallergenic, it’s also a great option to consider if you have sensitive skin.
The benefits:
Hypoallergenic
Long-lasting
Elegant and timeless
Versatile
Highly Valuable
Which type of jewelry do you like the most? We hope we answered your questions.
Remember, you can buy your favorite jewelry at Ale Yu!