Not all gold jewellery is the same. For starters there's 'real gold' and non real. 'Waterproof' jewellery. But how do you know what is worth investing in? Are the cheaper types worth it? What if you have allergies to certain metals?
Fear not. I will explain all! There are 4 main types of gold jewellery:
- Gold plated
- Gold filled
- Gold vermeil
- Gold (or solid gold) a.k.a 'real gold'
'Gold plated' jewellery
This type of jewellery is the most affordable as it is made from a base metal (usually something like copper, nickel or brass) but then plated in gold (coated with a thin layer of gold). It is therefore cheaper to make and so more affordable, often found in many of our favourite high street stores & brands. However this jewellery isn't as long-lasting and hard-wearing as other types of gold jewellery.
A great choice for occasional wear and for those who are not sensitive to metals either.
'Gold filled' jewellery
This type has a layer of solid gold bonded to a base metal like copper or brass. Gold filled jewellery tends to last longer than gold plated due to the bonding and minimum amount of gold used by law.
'Gold vermeil' jewellery
Pronounced [ver-may], this jewellery is typically made of either pure silver or sterling silver and then plated in gold i.e. coated with a thin layer of gold (sometimes this jewellery is marked as 925 sterling silver). It is therefore more expensive than gold plated jewellery but not as expensive as solid gold. But it is also more durable and of higher quality so tends to last longer.
Gold vermeil is usually preferred by those who have metal allergies as it doesn't contain any base metals. (Base metals: nickel, copper, brass etc.)
This is also the type of jewellery many brands now start marketing as 'waterproof' jewellery. Whilst it is more water resistant and can be worn in the shower, pool or even the sea, please note that unless the jewellery is solid gold, it is always prone to damage over the longer term.
'Solid gold' jewellery
...is as it says on the tin - 100% solid gold. It is therefore the most expensive type of gold jewellery to buy, but will last forever. as there is no mixing with other metals, solid gold jewellery can be considered hypoallergenic.