Gold-plated, gold vermeil and gold-filled jewellery can look similar at first glance, but they are made differently. Understanding the construction helps you compare products more accurately and choose the finish that suits your budget, care routine and expectations.
What is gold-plated jewellery?
Gold plating applies a layer of gold over a different base metal. The exact base metal, gold purity and plating thickness can vary between brands and products, so the product specification matters more than the words “gold plated” alone.
Clair De Lune gold styles use 18K gold plating where specified. Check each product page for the base material and finish information relevant to that design.
What is gold vermeil?
Gold vermeil is a type of gold-plated jewellery that uses sterling silver as the base metal and must meet applicable standards for the gold layer in the market where it is sold. Because the base is sterling silver, vermeil is different from gold plating applied over brass, copper or other metals.
What is gold-filled jewellery?
Gold-filled jewellery is made by bonding a comparatively substantial layer of gold alloy to a base metal through a manufacturing process rather than applying a conventional thin electroplated surface. It is not the same as solid gold and should not be confused with ordinary gold plating.
Which one lasts longest?
There is no useful universal lifespan because wear depends on construction, thickness, friction, moisture, cosmetics, cleaning and how often the piece is worn. Gold-filled pieces generally contain more gold by construction than standard plated pieces, while vermeil uses sterling silver as its base. A well-cared-for plated piece can still be a practical choice for fashion and everyday styling.
Does gold-plated jewellery tarnish?
The gold surface itself behaves differently from the metal beneath it, but as plating wears, the underlying material can become more exposed. Sweat, salt water, chlorine, perfume and abrasive cleaning can accelerate visible wear. Store plated jewellery dry and separately, and clean it gently.
Can you shower with gold-plated jewellery?
Even when a piece is described as water-resistant, limiting unnecessary exposure to soaps, shampoo, chlorine and salt water can help preserve a plated finish. Water resistance should not be treated as a promise that plating can never wear.
How should you choose?
Compare the full specification: base metal, finish, gold purity, stated care instructions and price. Then decide whether you prioritise affordability, a sterling silver base, a heavier bonded gold layer or solid gold.
Explore gold earrings, gold rings, gold necklaces and gold bracelets from Clair De Lune.
