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Are you considering getting a piercing and leaning towards gold but feeling unsure with so many options out there to choose from?
In this guide we will explore the distinct contrasts among gold-plated jewelry pieces vermeil gold filled and solid gold so you can confidently select the perfect option, for your next piercing Let’s delve into the characteristics of each type and discover how to identify genuine pieces.
Let’s first get to know the figures in the world of gold jewelry before delving into details.
Gold purity is measured in karats (k). Pure gold is considered 24 karats (24k). It is often mixed with other metals to make it stronger and more suitable for jewelry making since pure gold is too soft on its own for such purposes That’s why you’ll commonly find different karat values like 10k.,14k., 18K., with a higher karat indicating a higher gold content and a more costly piece of jewelry.
When it comes to creating gold jewelry and crafting it intricately with care and skillful hands – an alloy is simply a mix of two metals combined for a specific purpose or effect, in the final piece of jewelry design.
A micron is a unit that equals one-thousandth of a millimeter and is often used to measure the thickness of gold plating, on vermeil and gold-plated jewelry items.
Let’s explore the designs of gold accessories now that we have a good grasp of the terms involved.
Gold-plated jewelry is crafted by applying a layer of gold onto a base metal such as brass or copper using electroplating methods This creates the appearance of genuine gold, at a more affordable price point However a drawback is that the gold layer may gradually wear off with time and reveal the underlying metal beneath it
Consider gold plating like an embellishment, for your jewelry – it dazzles at first glance but gradually fades away over time.
Here’s how to spot gold-plated jewelry:
When checking for authenticity in gold items you might find indications, like “GP ” ” G.P., ” ” HGE ” ( signifying gold electroplate ), Or ” GEP ” ( indicating gold electroplated ). Nonetheless, certain pieces could lack any markings whatsoever.
Make sure to verify the cost before making a purchase; if the price appears low for a gold item it’s probably just gold-plated.
Take a look at the shade of gold-plated jewelry; it might show a variation, in color compared to solid gold—it could look a bit lighter or more brass-like.
Check for indications of usage or damage. Worn spots could expose the underlying metal beneath the coating.
Pros:
Affordable
Wide variety of styles
Cons:
Not as durable as other gold types
Prone to tarnishing and discoloration
Can trigger allergies due to the base metals
Best for:
Occasional wear
Trying out trends
If you have skin and like hypoallergenic choices you might want to think about going for either solid gold or gold-filled jewelry instead.
Gold vermeil is pronounced as “ver may”. Represents a higher quality and more durable option compared to gold plating due, to its thicker layer of gold (minimum 2 1/2 microns) which is electroplated onto sterling silver.
Consider gold vermeil as a lasting companionship for your jewelry—requiring dedication than gold-plated options yet not as enduring, as solid gold pieces.
Here’s how to spot gold vermeil:
When examining jewelry, for authenticity and quality assurance purposes. Gold vermeil items are usually identified by markings that include “vermeil ” and “925,” to denote sterling silver content. Additionally, it may feature a karat indicator like “14k.”
Verifying the weight is essential. Vermeil jewelry tends to have a feel compared to gold-plated jewelry primarily because of its sterling silver foundation.
Take a look at the hue. Vermeil boasts a more vibrant gold color compared to gold-plated items.
Pros:
More durable than gold plating
Hypoallergenic due to the sterling silver base
Affordability compared to solid gold
Cons:
The gold coating may fade away gradually with use.
Can tarnish if not stored properly
Best for:
Everyday wear
People with sensitive skin
For those seeking a budget-friendly option instead of Solid gold jewelry pieces—especially, for charms that cannot be crafted using gold-filled methods—there is an alternative worth exploring.
Gold-filled jewelry is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal like jeweler brass through a mechanical process to create sturdy and enduring pieces that resist tarnishing and wear over time, in the United States where the gold layer must comprise at least 5 percent of the overall weight.
Gold-filled jewelry is, like a partner that stays with you for a lifetime showcasing resilience and endurance over the years.
Here’s how to spot gold-filled jewelry:
Consider the mass difference between them. Gold-filled jewelry weighs more than gold-plated items but less than gold pieces. Notice the shade; The golden tint of gold-filled items closely resembles that of gold.
Pros:
Very durable and long-lasting
Tarnish-resistant and waterproof
Hypoallergenic
More affordable than solid gold
Cons:
Design choices are restricted by the manufacturing process to wire or sheet forms only.
Best for:
Everyday wear
People with sensitive skin
For individuals seeking a lasting and budget-friendly option instead of solid gold.
When it comes to solid gold jewelry it’s made of a gold alloy. Not pure gold because that’s too soft, for jewelry. So they mix in metals to make it strong and durable. The typical karats you’ll find in gold jewelry are 10k, 14k, and 18k.
Consider gold as the prized possession, in your jewelry assortment. A classic gem that can be handed down to future generations.
Here’s how to spot solid gold jewelry:
Look for markings: Solid gold pieces will be marked with a karat stamp, such as “14K” or “18K,” to indicate the gold content.
Make sure to test the weight of the jewelry. Gold pieces will have a more substantial feel compared to gold-plated ones or those made of vermeil or gold-filled materials.
Take a look at the color of gold; it changes based on the karat level. Higher karats show a deeper and more lively yellow shade.
Pros:
The precious and long-lasting kind of gold adornments.
Hypoallergenic
Tarnish-resistant
Retains its value over time
Cons:
The most expensive type of gold jewelry
Can scratch or dent, especially higher karats
Best for:
Investment pieces
Heirloom jewelry
Special occasions
Individuals seeking top-notch quality and willing to invest in premium products.
Check out GPF‘s range of 14K solid gold piercings for top-notch jewelry that won’t break the bank! For a timeless and fashionable addition, to your collection of accessories.
Let’s explore the features of the four varieties of gold jewelry by referring to this convenient comparative chart.
| Feature | Gold Plated | Gold Vermeil | Gold Filled | Solid Gold |
| Gold Content | 0.05% or less | At least 2.5 microns | 5% or more | 41.7% to 75% |
| Base Metal | Brass, Copper | Sterling Silver | Jeweler’s Brass | None |
| Durability | Low | Medium | High | Very High |
| Tarnish Resistance | Low | Medium | High | Very High |
| Hypoallergenic | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kosten | Lowest | Low to Medium | Medium to High | Highest |
Now that you’ve got a grasp of the various styles of gold jewelry available out there you’ll be better equipped to choose the one that suits you best.
Consider these factors when choosing:
How much do you plan to allocate for your jewelry budget?
How frequently do you plan to wear the jewelry? Will it come into contact with water or sweat, at any point?
Sensitivity: Do you have any metal allergies?
Style: What kind of look are you going for?
At the end of the day, it all boils down to what you prefer and what kind of jewelry speaks to you the most personally. Now that you’ve got this insight in hand you can stroll through the realm of gold jewelry with ease and find that ideal piece, for your upcoming piercing!
If you’re looking for custom-designed gold piercings, GPF offers a wide range of options to create the perfect piece to express your unique style. Explore their custom gold piercing services and bring your jewelry dreams to life
