If you are wanting to look luxe, expensive, and put together on a budget, this blog post is for you! Solid and pure gold is super expensive as a global traded commodity. Luckily, there are different types of gold jewelry in terms of plating that can give us the look for less, and can last for a long time. When shopping it can be very tricky to find the right pieces for you and understand the types of plating. This guide explains each type, with examples you can shop. Each piece in this blog post I personally own and wear a lot, and they are holding up great. Most of these items were recommend by others who had good results. Also, note that the majority of these items are available in other colors if gold is not your thing.
Different Types of Gold Plating
No matter what type of gold you opt for, proper care is key. My jewelry care guide is an all-encompassing and easy to follow listing of tips and tricks. The blog post also features Pura Vida plated jewelry (mostly over brass) so it is a great two for one! You definitely need that open in another tab as a companion to this reading, and bookmark it too.
Gold Plated
Starting off the different types of gold jewelry is plated pieces. Plating is when a light layer of gold, usually 0.05% or less of actual gold, is bonded to a base metal. The base metals are typically brass, copper, nickel, and stainless steel. The thin plating is known to wear off in a short amount of time, which is when the real issues start. If the base metal meets moisture in any way, it can corrode. While I am never an advocate of getting any jewelry wet, you really need to be mindful with gold plated! I tend to have good luck with my stainless steel pieces, and even some brass. Both of the ChainsPro items from Amazon below are looking amazing after many wears, and they have stellar reviews.
Here are my gold plated pieces:
- ChainsPro Sturdy Stackable Rings Set (gold over stainless steel)
- 14K Gold Plated Herringbone Chain Bracelet (gold over brass)
- ChainsPro Womens Layered Necklace (gold over stainless steel)
- 18K Gold Jewelry Coffee Bean Bracelet, U Shape Bracelet, Vintage Mesh Bracelet, Curby Bracelet (gold over stainless steel – also marked as waterproof)
- 14K Gold Plated Chain Bracelet (gold over brass)
- wowshow Thick Hoop Earrings Hollow 14K Gold Plated Gold Hoops (gold over copper)
Gold Vermeil
Second for the different types of gold plating is vermeil. This tricky to pronounce word is when a thick layer of gold is plated over sterling silver. The US requires the gold plating to be at least 2.5 microns as a standard. Gold vermeil will last longer than regular, thin plating, but the gold will eventually rub off leaving you with a sterling silver piece. Sterling silver is highly reactive to oxygen, which is another factor that can harm these pieces when proper care is not taken. You should not get vermeil wet if you can help it.
Below is the Miranda Frye Cuff, which is gold plated over sterling silver. That is considered demi fine. For more demi fine jewelry, be sure to check out my Pura Vida Demi Fine jewelry collection review! Pictured below is also the Miranda Frye Mackenzie Bracelet, but it really belongs more in the gold plated category. The product description only says that it contains nickel or rhodium.
Gold Filled
Next for types of gold plated jewelry is my favorite and the best, which is gold filled. It is normally the most expensive out of the three, but much more affordable than pure gold. Gold filled is when a solid layer of gold is bonded to jewelers brass. The US requires the gold layer to be at least 5% of the jewelry’s total weight. Typically, these pieces are hollow because gold fill is sold to manufactures in sheet or wire form. Gold filled pieces usually have 100 times more actual gold versus plated pieces. If you are allergic to gold, gold filled is a good option. I have heard of people getting their pieces wet without trouble, but I am still cautious. These pieces are made to last around 10 to 30 years.
Here are my gold filled pieces:
- 18k Gold Filled Baguette Cubic Zirconia Set
- Personalized Initial Necklace
- 18k Gold Filled Shell Ring
- 18k Gold Filled Chain Ring
Solid Gold
When we are talking about types of gold jewelry and plating, I would be remiss to not talk about actual gold! Solid gold is exactly what it sounds like- the pieces are 100% gold with no base metal. Gold comes in different karats, with indicates how much of the piece is gold versus an alloy.
24 karat gold is known as pure gold, meaning their is no alloy. It is actually too soft for jewelry making, so most jewelers add an alloy metal to enhance durability and strength. Soft gold can also scratch easily. 18 karat gold might be a better option for you, as it contains 75% gold and six parts alloy. 14 karat gold is a good middle of the road option, with 58.3% gold and 10 parts alloy.
The key is, the lower the karat the lower the price point, because less gold is being used. Gold is known to last forever, as it never tarnishes, and you can get it wet.
Different Types of Gold Jewelry Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
I am ending with some frequently asked questions concerning the 3 types of gold plating:
What are the 3 types of gold?
The three types of gold plating are plated over a base metal such as nickel, brass, copper, and stainless steel, gold vermeil, and gold filled.
What are the different types of gold jewelry?
The different types of gold jewelry are 24k pure gold, 14k solid gold, 18k solid gold, gold vermeil, gold filled, and gold plated.
What is the best grade of gold?
The best grade of gold is 24 karat. Alone it is too soft for wear in jewelry, so it is normally alloyed with another metal to give it durability. For something just a durable and more wearable, try 14 or 18 karat gold.
Shop Various Types Of Gold Jewelry
Conclusion
In summary of types of gold jewelry, you do not need a budget for solid/pure gold to look expensive on the daily basis. The affordable plating options of gold plated, vermeil, and gold filled can last you a long time with the right care. Once you get into these pieces, you will fall in love and buy costume jewelry less! I always feel much more put together when I have at least a few pieces that I can wear daily and not have to worry about them tarnishing. It is the worst feeling when you wear something a few times then it looks like junk. Everything in this blog post has been stress tested by me. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
Are you a gold or silver person?
6 Responses
This article is very informative and helpful for anyone who wants to learn more about different types of gold jewelry. You have explained the pros and cons of each type clearly and concisely. I admire your knowledge and expertise on this topic. You have also given some useful tips on how to care for and style gold jewelry. Thank you for sharing your insights.
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What a comprehensive guide to different types of gold jewelry! From yellow and rose gold to white gold and even black gold, this article covers it all. Each type of gold jewelry has its distinct allure and symbolism, making it special for different occasions and personal preferences. I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the diversity of gold jewelry through this informative post. Thanks for shedding light on the beauty of gold jewelry, The Aesthetic Edge!
What an insightful article! The information about different gold alloys and their unique properties is particularly interesting. Thank you for sharing this informative piece!
Absolutely loved this post! I’ve always been curious about the different types of gold jewelry plating and how they affect the overall look and durability. Thanks for breaking it down so clearly.
I like that you said that real gold would not melt and be damaged by just small detail problems. My brother told me he was looking for gold bracelets and necklaces to gather information about the best investment and fashion guide. He asked if I had thoughts on the best approach for gold-buying. I appreciate this helpful gold guide article for the best buying approach. I’ll tell him he should consult the jewelry store for the best process.