Understanding the Types of Gold Jewelry

When shopping for gold jewelry, you may come across terms like “solid gold,” “gold filled,” “gold vermeil,” or “gold plated,” but what do these really mean? At Sage x Stone, we believe it’s important to understand the differences between these types of gold jewelry so you can make an informed choice that suits your style, budget, and lifestyle.

Here’s a breakdown of the key types of gold jewelry, as shown in the chart above:

1. Solid Gold

Solid gold jewelry is exactly what it sounds like—made entirely from gold, with no other metals in its composition. It’s the highest quality and most durable form of gold jewelry. Typically, solid gold is available in different purities such as 24k, 18k, or 14k, with 24k being the purest. While it’s beautiful and timeless, solid gold is also the most expensive option. For those looking for investment pieces or heirloom-quality jewelry, solid gold is an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Retains its value over time
• Hypoallergenic

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Softer and more prone to scratches (in higher karats)

2. Gold Filled

Gold-filled jewelry consists of a thick layer of gold that is mechanically bonded to a base metal like brass or copper. The gold layer must make up at least 5% of the total weight of the item, making gold-filled jewelry a more affordable yet durable option than solid gold. It’s great for everyday wear and can last a long time with proper care.

Pros:

• More affordable than solid gold
• Long-lasting and tarnish-resistant
• Safe for most people with sensitive skin

Cons:

• Not 100% gold, so the base metal may affect durability over time
• Requires regular care to maintain its appearance

3. Gold Vermeil

Gold vermeil (pronounced “ver-may”) refers to jewelry made with a base of sterling silver, which is then coated with a thick layer of gold. The gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick to qualify as vermeil. This is an excellent option for those who want high-quality gold jewelry at a fraction of the price of solid gold, especially if you prefer sterling silver as the base metal.

Pros:

• Higher quality than standard gold plating
• More affordable than solid gold
• Silver base makes it hypoallergenic

Cons:

• Gold layer can wear down over time
• Requires more maintenance to prevent tarnishing

4. Gold Plated

Gold-plated jewelry has a very thin layer of gold applied over a base metal, like brass or copper. This layer is much thinner than in gold-filled or vermeil jewelry, making gold-plated pieces more affordable but less durable. While gold-plated jewelry can look beautiful initially, it’s more prone to fading, tarnishing, and wearing off with everyday use.

Pros:

• Most affordable option
• Available in a wide variety of designs and styles

Cons:

• Gold layer is very thin and wears off quickly
• Can tarnish or discolor easily
• Base metals may cause skin irritation for some people

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice of gold jewelry depends on your personal preferences and how you plan to wear it. If you want a piece that will last a lifetime, solid gold is the best investment. For those looking for high quality at a lower price, gold-filled or gold vermeil offers a good balance between durability and affordability. If you're looking for something trendy or short-term, gold-plated jewelry can be an inexpensive way to try new styles.

At Sage x Stone, we offer a variety of gold-filled jewelry that combines both beauty and durability, perfect for everyday wear without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a timeless piece or a trendy accessory, we have options to fit every style and occasion!