If you’re shopping for affordable gold jewelry, you will see two terms very often: gold vermeil and gold-plated jewelry. Both have the beautiful appearance of gold without the high price of solid gold, but they are not the same. The main difference is the base metal, gold thickness, durability and the overall quality.
Learn the difference between gold vermeil vs gold plated jewelry so you can choose the right pieces for your style, budget, and everyday wear. Both can look elegant, but gold vermeil tends to have a thicker layer of gold over a sterling silver base compared to gold-plated jewelry that can have different base metals and a thinner layer of gold.
In this article we will explain what gold vermeil and gold plated jewelry is, compare their durability and appearance and help you understand which option may be suitable for different jewelry needs.
What Is Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil is a style of gold jewelry that is made by plating a sterling silver base with a layer of real gold. Gold vermeil is often seen as a higher quality alternative to regular gold plated jewelry because it is based on sterling silver. In the US, for a piece to be considered vermeil, it must be made of sterling silver with a gold overlay that meets specific purity and thickness requirements.
Gold vermeil is available in different gold colors and karats, including yellow gold, rose gold and white gold. Usually the gold layer is a bit thicker than the coating on traditional gold plated jewelry.
Gold Vermeil Key Features
- Base: Sterling Silver
- Pure gold outer layer
- Typically a thicker gold coat than standard plating
- Available in various gold karats
- More valuable than a lot of cheap gold plated stuff
- Might be a good option for cheap fine jewelry
- Needs to be cared for properly to maintain its finish
Gold vermeil is a good option for those looking for a better quality alternative to cheap plated jewelry, since it has sterling silver under the gold.
What does gold-plated jewelry mean?
Gold plated jewelry is made of a base metal with a thin layer of gold. The base metal can be brass, copper, stainless steel or another metal, depending on the manufacturer and product. The gold plating gives the jewelry the appearance of gold but costs significantly less than solid gold jewelry.
The gold layer can be very different thicknesses from one product to another. Some gold plated jewelry can be worn for a long time looking at its best with careful use, but if the plating is very thin the piece may start to show wear fairly quickly.
Gold-Plated Jewelry Features
- Often uses a base metal other than gold
- Covered with a layer of gold leaf
- Generally less expensive
- Gold coating thickness can vary
- Many styles and designs to choose from
- May need to be replaced more often depending on wear
Gold plated jewelry is a great choice for fashion jewelry, for occasional wear and for those who like to change their accessories often.
Gold Vermeil vs Gold-Plated Jewelry: Key Differences
The main differences between gold vermeil and gold plated jewelry are base metal, gold thickness, durability, price, and overall construction. Gold Vermeil vs. Gold-Plated Jewelry
1. Base Metal
One of the biggest differences between the two is the metal under the gold. Gold vermeil is made of sterling silver. Sterling silver, an established precious-metal alloy, offers a better quality base for the gold layer. However gold plated jewelry can be made with a range of base metals. Cheap jewelry is usually made of brass or copper, although some manufacturers use stainless steel or other metals.
This distinction is important because the base metal can impact the appearance of the jewelry, the durability, the weight and how it wears when the gold layer eventually wears off.
2. Gold Thickness
Another factor is the thickness of the gold layer, which matters in gold vermeil vs gold plated jewelry. Gold vermeil usually has a thicker gold layer than regular gold plated jewelry. A thicker coating means more gold between the wearer and the underlying metal.
But not all gold-plated jewelry is created equal. The quality can vary a lot from one manufacturer to another. When comparing jewelry, don’t just look for “gold plated.” Check to see if the seller gives plating thickness and manufacturing standards.
3. Endurance
Generally, gold vermeil is considered to be more durable than regular gold plating, as it uses a sterling silver base and a fairly thick layer of gold. Gold vermeil is not solid gold. The gold layer on it can still wear off over time, especially on rings, bracelets and other pieces that are subject to a lot of friction.
Gold-plated jewelry can last for years when it has quality plating and is handled with care. But cheaper goods with really thin plating may wear down their finish faster. So durability is not just a question of whether jewelry is vermeil or plated. The thickness of the gold. The quality of the manufacturing. The design of the jewelry and how often you wear the piece.
Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated Jewelry: Which One Is Better?
There isn’t a single correct choice for everyone. If you are looking for a jewelry piece that is a little more premium, then gold vermeil is a good option with a sterling silver base and a thick layer of gold. If price is your primary concern, and you like variety in fashion and sampling various styles of jewelry, gold plated jewelry may be a better match.
The right choice will be determined by what you can afford, how often you will wear the jewelry and how important the materials are to you.
Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated: Which One Will Last Longer?
Generally, gold vermeil jewelry can last longer than standard gold plated jewelry, especially if the vermeil piece has a thick coating of gold and is properly maintained. There is, however, an important exception: high quality gold plated jewelry, if the plating is thick enough, can be very durable, while poor quality vermeil may still show wear. Jewelry that is constantly rubbed wears the gold finish more quickly.
For example:
- The rings are in contact with surfaces at all times.
- Bracelets rub against clothing or other things.
- Necklaces usually have less friction.
- Earrings can last long if you take good care of them.
Proper storage and cleaning can greatly extend the life of either type of jewelry.
What Is Gold Vermeil?
Yes. Gold vermeil features real gold as the outer layer. But the whole thing isn’t quite gold. Rather, a sterling silver piece is coated with a layer of gold. That’s what makes vermeil different from solid gold jewelry, which uses gold throughout the material, not just on the surface. When shopping for vermeil jewelry check the product details to find out the gold karat and plating thickness.
Is Gold-Plated Jewelry Made of Real Gold?
Gold plated jewelry is usually just a layer of real gold on top of another kind of metal. But most of the article is base metal, not gold. The thickness of the plating determines the amount of gold.
That’s why gold plated jewelry can look like gold but doesn’t have the same material value as solid gold.
Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated Appearance
At first glance, it can be hard to distinguish good quality gold vermeil from gold plated jewelry. Both can look shiny, polished gold. Color depends on the gold karat and alloy used. For instance, higher-karat yellow gold tends to have a warmer look, while lower-karat gold can have a slightly different tone due to the higher percentage of other metals it contains.
Don’t judge quality by appearance alone. Check the product specifications and the reputation of the jewelry maker.
Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated Cost
Gold plated jewelry is typically less expensive than gold vermeil.
The price difference is due to a number of factors including:
- Vermeil is made of sterling silver
- Amount of gold employed
- Thickness of gold
- Quality of manufacturing
- Design of jewelry
- Reputation of the brand
Gold vermeil can be found in the middle ground between cheap fashion jewelry and more expensive solid gold. If you want the look of gold but don’t want to spend a fortune, vermeil can be a good option.
Gold Vermeil vs Gold-Plated for Everyday Use
If you plan on wearing your jewelry every day, think about the type of jewelry you are purchasing. Gold vermeil can work well for everyday necklaces, earrings and some bracelets if cared for properly.
Rings and bracelets are often touching other surfaces, which can make the gold layer wear out faster from friction. Gold plated jewelry can also be worn on a daily basis, but the life of the plating is highly dependent on the thickness and quality of the plating. For either option, remove jewelry before activities that will expose jewelry to water, chemicals, sweat or excess friction.
How to Extend the Life of Gold Vermeil
Proper care can keep the gold finish on vermeil jewelry looking good.
Keep Away From Water
Avoid swimming, showering, or bathing when wearing vermeil jewelry. Prolonged contact with water can cause wear, especially if used with soaps and other products.
Avoid Using Perfume and Cosmetics
Spray perfume, lotions, hairspray and cosmetics before putting on your jewelry. Chemicals in personal-care products can affect the finish.
Store Jewelry Individually
Store each piece in a soft jewelry pouch or lined jewelry box. You can also store pieces separately to reduce scratching and friction.
Clean Mildly
To clean vermeil jewelry, use a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or polish the gold aggressively as the layer can be removed or damaged.
Take off jewelry before exercising
Jewelry is exposed to moisture and friction of sweat and repetitive motion. To preserve the finish of vermeil pieces, remove them before workouts.
How to Make Your Gold Plated Jewelry Last Longer
Gold-plated jewelry requires many of the same care practices.
When possible, keep it dry.
- Don’t swim in it.
- Take jewelry off before showering.
- Wear jewelry after applying beauty products.
- Keep the parts separate.
- Do not use abrasive cleaning agents.
- Cut down on friction where it is not absolutely essential.
- Get dressed, then put on jewelry.
The more you protect the gold coating, the more the jewelry is likely to retain its initial appearance.
Does vermeil gold tarnish?
Gold itself does not tarnish, but if the gold plating is scratched or the coating wears off, the sterling silver underneath may tarnish. This means that proper storage and care is particularly important for vermeil jewelry. If you see discoloration don’t polish hard. More of the gold layer can be removed by using abrasive materials.
Will Gold-Plated Jewelry Tarnish?
Gold plated jewelry also can discolor when the gold plating wears off and the metal underneath is seen. The behavior is mostly a function of the base metal. For example, the brass or copper under the plating may be a much different color than the original gold finish. If the plating is heavily worn, cleaning alone may not return it to its original appearance. Replating may be required.
Is Gold Plated Good for Sensitive Skin?
Some low-end gold-plated jewelry is better off with vermeil, because the base metal used in gold vermeil is sterling silver.
But sensitivity is different for each person. The reaction to jewelry can be influenced by the gold alloy itself and other metals included.
If you have sensitive skin, be sure to check the manufacturer’s material information carefully and look for clear information about the base metal and gold alloy.
Gold Vermeil vs. Gold-Plated Jewelry: Which One to Choose?
These factors to consider before purchasing.
Opt for Gold Vermeil If:
- You want a base in sterling silver.
- You like a thicker gold layer.
- You intend to keep the jewelry for a longer time.
- You want something in between fashion jewelry and solid gold.
- You’re willing to pay a little extra.
Select Gold-Plated Jewelry If:
- You want the lowest price possible.
- You frequently switch your jewelry.
- You’re buying accessories for occasional use.
- You want to try different styles.
What you really care about is not the long term material value.
What Should You Look For Before Buying?
Do not trust the product title alone.
Before you buy, look for:
Base Metal. Determine if the piece is sterling silver, brass, stainless steel or another metal.
Gold karat: Check to see if the gold is 10K, 14K, 18K or another karat.
Gold thickness: If a seller gives plating thickness, it is more helpful info for comparing products.
Care instructions: Before buying, read the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Return policy: If the jewelry is not what you expected, a well-defined return policy can be helpful.
Transparency: Choose sellers who are upfront about what their jewelry is made of.
Gold Vermeil, Gold Filled, and Solid Gold
These three terms are often confused, but they refer to different constructions .
Gold vermeil: Sterling silver plated with a layer of gold.
Gold-plated: Yet another base metal with a thin layer of gold on top.
Solid gold: An alloy of gold that permeates the entire piece, not just a surface coating. Solid gold is usually a lot more expensive because there is a lot more gold in the material itself. Vermeil and gold-plated jewelry are cheaper options to achieve the gold look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vermeil gold better than gold plated?
Gold vermeil is generally a base of sterling silver with a thicker layer of gold than standard gold plated jewelry. However, the quality of individual pieces varies, so it is important to check the actual specifications.
Is gold vermeil more durable than gold plated?
Gold vermeil is also usually more durable than regular gold plated jewelry because it usually has a thicker layer of gold and is made on a sterling silver base. The real life of the product depends on the thickness of the plating, the construction, the frequency of use and its maintenance.
Can you have a shower with gold verneil
Best to remove gold vermeil jewelry when showering. Repeated exposure to moisture, water, soap or shampoo will wear the gold layer out.
Can you shower with gold plated jewelry?
It’s best to take off gold-plated jewelry before showering. Frequent exposure to water, soap and personal care products can reduce the life of the plating.
Will gold vermeil tarnish?
Vermeil gold in and of itself does not usually turn green because it is vermeil. However, the gold layer can be worn off, revealing the underlying sterling silver and other alloy components that may change appearance over time.
Is vermeil gold worth buying?
Gold vermeil is a good choice for those who want a heavier gold finish and a sterling silver base, without the price tag of solid gold. Whether it is worth getting one depends on your budget, its intended use, and your jewelry tastes.
Should you buy gold-plated jewelry?
Gold plated jewelry can be a good choice for cheap fashion jewelry and for occasional use. The value is dependent on the quality of the plating, the base metal, the design and the price.
Is gold vermeil able to be re-plated?
Yes, gold vermeil can be re-plated with gold once the original gold layer wears. A jeweler can look at it and tell you whether it’s worth having it replaced or not.
Conclusion
The main differences between gold vermeil and gold plated jewelry are their base metals and gold coatings. Gold vermeil is made from a sterling silver base and usually features a thicker layer of gold, which makes it a more substantial option than basic gold-plated jewelry. Gold plated jewelry means a thin layer of gold over another metal. People tend to go for plated jewelry because it is affordable and comes in a wide variety of styles.
Neither of the choices are as good as solid gold. Both need looking after to keep them looking good, and the quality can be all over the place between different makers.Gold vermeil is worth looking at if you want a balance between affordability, look and a more premium build. If you want to experiment with fashion jewelry and you are on a budget, gold plated pieces may be a good option.
The most important thing you need to do before you buy is to check the jewelry’s base metal, gold karat, plating thickness, care requirements and manufacturer information.