Gold jewellery showdown: least to most gold
When shopping for gold jewellery, it's useful to understand the different types of gold plating. Here’s a quick guide to the various options:
1. Gold Plated -The Budget Friendly Option
Gold-plated jewellery is made by coating a base metal, like brass or Sterling silver with a very thin layer of gold, usually 0.5 microns. It’s the most affordable option but contains the least amount of gold.
● Gold content: thin coating of gold, usually 0.5 microns
● Price: least expensive
● Durability: the gold layer wears off quickly, especially with poor storage, and exposure to elements or frequent wear
2. PVD-Coated: High-Tech Durability
PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coating is a modern technique that uses vacuum technology to apply a thin, durable layer of gold over a base metal. It’s highly resistant to wear, scratches, and corrosion. Stainless steel is typically used as a base metal for the PVD coating.
● Gold content: typically around 0. 25 microns, thin coating, but highly durable
● Price: more expensive than gold-plated, but cheaper than solid gold
● Durability: very scratch-resistant, perfect for long-term wear
3. Gold-Filled: Durable and Valuable
Gold-filled jewellery has a thick layer of gold, usually between 3 to 5 microns, which is mechanically bonded to a base metal, often brass. It’s significantly more durable than gold-plated and gold vermeil.
● Gold content: typically 3 to 5 microns thick layer of gold
● Price: more expensive than gold vermeil and gold plated, but cheaper than solid gold
● Durability: highly durable, can last many years with proper care
● Brass is often used as a base metal, which may not be the best option for sensitive ears
4. Gold Vermeil: Affordable Luxury
Gold vermeil features a thicker layer of gold, at least 2.5 microns, of at least 14k gold over a 925 Sterling silver base making it hypoallergenic, because there is no nickel or brass. It’s more durable than gold-plated, and more affordable than solid gold.
● Gold Content: 2.5 microns, typically 14K-24K solid gold plating over 925 Sterling silver
● Price: more expensive than gold-plated, less than solid or gold-filled
● Durability: longer lasting but can still wear off with time
5. Solid Gold: The Ultimate Luxury
Solid gold jewellery is made entirely or mostly of gold, with options ranging from 14K (58.3% gold) to 24K (100% pure gold). It’s the most valuable and durable type of gold jewellery.
● Gold Content: 58.3% to 100% pure gold, depending on karat
● Price: most expensive
● Durability: extremely long-lasting and valuable, especially 14K and 18K
Which gold is right for you?
● Budget-conscious: go gold-plated for trendy, affordable pieces
● For long-lasting, low-maintenance wear: PVD-plated is perfect for everyday use
● For durability: gold-filled gives you lasting shine without breaking the bank, but the base metal is usually brass, not great for sensitive ears
● Middle ground: gold vermeil offers luxury at a lower cost, and is hypoallergenic, as there is no nickel or brass
● For investment: solid gold is the ultimate choice for lasting jewellery
No matter your budget or style, there’s a perfect type of gold for you to shine in!
If you liked the post, please leave your Google review here:
