Gold Vermeil vs Gold Filled
Both of these gold types contain gold layer over a base metal like sterling silver. Main difference is the thickness of the gold layer which plays an important part in durability, tarnishing and other aspects.
What is Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil is basically a gold plating of about 2.5 micrometer over a base metal like sterling silver or copper. This plating is somewhat thicker than your normal gold plating but does not add anything towards durability of the metal.
What is Gold Filled
Gold filled contains a much thicker gold layer mechanically bonded over a similar base metal like sterling silver or copper. As per the U.S laws, weight of gold in a gold filled jewelry must be more than 5% to be legally termed as gold filled jewelry. If it is less than 5%, jeweler cannot sell it by the name of gold filled.
Here is a picture to show a better understanding of gold vermeil and gold filled.
Gold Vermeil vs Gold Filled – A Detailed Comparison
Here is a detailed comparison of gold vermeil and gold filled.
1. Appearance
Both of the pieces will appear same. But as jewelry starts to get damaged like scratches, gold vermeil will start to show base metal pretty quickly. This can make your gold vermeil jewelry appear ugly. Only way to recover such a jewelry piece is to do re-plating.
Gold filled jewelry has a thicker layer of gold which will not expose the base metal. So appearance will remain the same if you take care of it properly.
2. Thickness of Gold Layer
Thickness of the gold layer is another important property to consider. This not only keeps the premium looks of gold but also protects the base metal from being exposed to atmospheric gases which can lead to tarnishing.
Gold vermeil is about 2.5 micrometer thick plating. To give you a comparison, normal gold plating is about 1 micrometer. So, there isn’t a very big difference between the two.
Gold filled’s layer is far more thick than gold plating. So, this protects base metal from being exposed all the time.
3. Durability
Durability means for how long your jewelry will last. Gold filled jewelry is surely to last longer than a vermeil jewelry as it has a much thicker gold layer. Gold vermeil will start to wear off after 6 to 8 months. However, gold filled can last as long as you want.
When it comes to resistance towards scratches, gold filled stands out. Gold vermeil is actually a plating which can wear off even on minor scratches with rough surfaces. Gold filled can provide better resistance.
4. Tarnishing
Tarnishing is a chemical process in which a metal reacts with water and atmospheric gases that leads to silver being turned black and copper green. Gold vermeil is susceptible to tarnishing after some time of usage due to wearing off of gold plating. Once gold plating is removed, vermeil will start to show tarnishing. Only way to save your jewelry will then be to use tarnishing removal chemicals.
Gold filled does not tarnish. This is a big pro that differentiates it from gold vermeil.
5. Hypoallergenic Properties
Gold vermeil can be non-hypoallergenic specifically when it has a base metal of copper. Whenever gold plating starts to wear off, it can expose the base metal. This metal can react with your skin and lead to allergies or skin turning green. If you are one who has a history of sensitive skin, then you must avoid gold vermeil jewelry.
Gold filled is completely hypoallergenic. Main reason for this is the inclusion of thick gold layer which never exposes the base metal to outer atmosphere. In this way, your skin does not react with any potentially harmful metals.
6. Cost
Cost of gold vermeil and gold filled is almost same. Most of the jewelers charge for gold vermeil about as same as they would for gold filled. So, cost difference is not an issue.
You can get a 2 to 3 grams pendant for as low as $80. This value can go up giving plating quality, brand value and uniqueness of designs.
7. Resale Value
Both of these are low cost jewelry compared to solid gold. That’s why resale value is very little to none for both. If you are buying jewelry for resale value, then this is definitely not the option. Go for solid gold jewelry only.
FAQ’s about Gold Vermeil vs Gold Filled
Here are some FAQ’s about gold vermeil vs gold filled.
Is Gold Vermeil Good?
Gold vermeil is good if you want to get gold alike looks at a lower cost. Otherwise it is better to go for gold filled.
How Long will Gold Vermeil last?
It will last for about 6 to 8 months of regular usage. After that you will have to re-plate it.
Is Gold Filled better than Gold Vermeil?
Yes, gold filled is better than gold vermeil. It has better resistance towards scratches and damages.
How is Gold Vermeil different from Gold Plating?
Gold vermeil is an upgraded version of gold plating with small upgrades. But in terms of durability and other properties, difference is not that big.
What Should You Buy?
Gold filled is definitely a better option. It provides a number of benefits over gold vermeil like durability, hypoallergenic properties, and non-tarnishing. But sometimes you don’t find the exact designs you are looking for. So, if you are in one of this situations, then go for gold plating. Otherwise gold filled is always better.