Gold vermeil is a legally regulated term for jewelry that has been plated with a thick layer (2.5 micron) of at least 10k gold over a sterling silver base. To be legally called "vermeil" in the United States, the jewelry piece must meet ALL of these above conditions.
Source: Federal Trade Commission
14k gold is composed of 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% other metals. Many jewelry makers prefer 14k gold for the outer plating rather than 100% pure gold (aka 24k gold) because pure gold is very malleable and has very strong yellow and orange tones, which give it a brassy look.
Gold vermeil is a legally regulated term for jewelry that has been plated with a thick layer (2.5 micron) of at least 10k gold over a sterling silver base. To be legally called "vermeil" in the United States, the jewelry piece must meet ALL of these above conditions.
Source: Federal Trade Commission
14k gold is composed of 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% other metals. Many jewelry makers prefer 14k gold for the outer plating rather than 100% pure gold (aka 24k gold) because pure gold is very malleable and has very strong yellow and orange tones, which give it a brassy look.
IS GOLD VERMEIL GOOD QUALITY
After solid gold, gold vermeil is the highest quality type of gold tone jewelry that you can buy. It is a great option for those who are seeking a high-quality alternative to solid gold jewelry without the hefty price tag.
Gold vermeil jewelry uses a thick layer of gold plating over a sterling silver base, while cheap gold-plated and gold-filled jewelry uses a thin layer of gold over brass or copper as their base metals. They are more susceptible to tarnish, and the thin layer of gold will wear off quicker, leaving the unattractive metal to show through.
If you are looking for a sustainable option for jewelry but cannot afford solid gold, gold vermeil is your next best choice.
HOW LONG CAN YOU EXPECT GOLD VERMEIL TO LAST?
The lifespan of gold vermeil jewellery depends on several factors, including how often you wear it, how you care for it, and the thickness of the gold layer. In general, gold vermeil can last anywhere from several months to several years, with proper care and maintenance.
DOES GOLD VERMEIL WEAR OFF?
In short, yes - unfortunately, gold vermeil can wear off after heavy use; however, with proper care, the plating layer can last for many years because it is so thick.
While gold vermeil is considered resistant and durable, like all alloyed gold, with typical wear and use, the metal can naturally start to fade over time… but don’t expect this to happen anytime soon. Thankfully, there are many precautions you can take to prolong the lifespan of your gold vermeil jewelry.
CARING FOR YOUR GOLD VERMEIL JEWELRY
To ensure your gold vermeil jewelry lasts longer, it's crucial to care for it properly. Here are some tips to maintain the beauty of your gold vermeil pieces:
Preserve your jewelry by putting it on as the final step. Jewelry consists of atoms and molecules that can react with substances they come into contact with. Wait a few minutes after applying lotion, sunscreen, hair spray, perfume, makeup, or any cosmetics and make sure to wash your hands before wearing your jewelry.
In case you accidentally apply cosmetics after putting on your jewelry, promptly use a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. It happens!
Avoid exposing your jewelry to water and chemicals. Water, lotions, perfumes, and cleaning agents can all harm the gold layer on your vermeil pieces. To prevent damage, refrain from wearing your vermeil jewelry while showering, swimming, or using cleaning products. While occasional exposure is acceptable, it's advisable to make caring for your jewelry a regular practice.
Regularly clean your jewelry. Accumulated dirt, oils, and sweat can make your jewelry appear dull and dirty over time. To maintain the luster of your vermeil jewelry, clean it periodically using a soft, damp cloth. Using mild soap and water is also safe. Microfiber, fine cotton, or specialized jewelry cleaning cloths are effective for this purpose.
Store your jewelry correctly. Proper storage can prevent scratches and other damage to your vermeil pieces. Keep your jewelry in a jewelry box or pouch, and avoid storing it alongside other jewelry that could potentially scratch it.
Remove your jewelry when sleeping or engaging in physical activities. Taking off your vermeil jewelry before sleeping or exercising can help protect it from damage and extend its lifespan.
DOES VERMEIL TARNISH?
Gold vermeil can tarnish, but tarnishing can be prevented with good care. Tarnishing happens when various metals chemically react with air or moisture, resulting in the formation of copper dioxide, which appears as a brown or black discoloration on the surface. Environmental factors like humidity, sweat, lotions, and perfumes can increase the likelihood of tarnish formation.
Fortunately, gold vermeil contains sterling silver at its core, which is far less prone to tarnishing compared to jewelry made from copper, brass, or those containing nickel. Tarnish can be easily removed through polishing, restoring your jewelry to its original shine.
IS GOLD VERMEIL WATERPROOF?
Gold vermeil jewelry can tolerate exposure to water, but it's not labeled as "waterproof" because it's not advisable to immerse it in water for extended periods. To maximize the lifespan of your jewelry, it's recommended to minimize exposure to moisture. While water may not cause immediate harm to gold vermeil, over time, continuous chemical reactions can lead to tarnishing or a loss of shine in your jewelry items.
No metals can be considered entirely 100% waterproof, including solid gold, which can lose it's shine, and chemicals can potentially affect the other metals in the alloy and may lead to surface discoloration or other issues over time. This underscores the importance of proper jewelry care for those wishing to preserve the longevity of their cherished pieces. As a precaution, it's essential to remove your vermeil jewelry before heading to the beach, pool, or gym.
CAN YOU SHOWER WITH GOLD VERMEIL?
While it's possible to wear your gold vermeil jewelry during a shower, we suggest not making it a regular practice as it can hasten tarnishing. An occasional shower with your gold vermeil pieces should not cause immediate changes in their appearance, but it's advisable to gently pat them dry right after. Furthermore, it's a good idea to minimize contact with soaps, shampoos, and conditioners, as the chemicals in these products may lead to tarnish or a loss of luster in your jewelry.
IS GOLD VERMEIL HYPOALLERGENIC?
Gold vermeil can potentially be hypoallergenic, but its hypoallergenic properties depend on its manufacturing process. The primary metal responsible for allergic reactions is nickel, and it may be present in the gold plating of gold vermeil jewelry if it originates from an unreliable source. However, at ELLASMOLA, all our gold vermeil jewelry is guaranteed to be nickel-free, making it suitable for all skin types. We are proud to report that we have never received any reports from customers experiencing allergic reactions to our jewelry.
SHOULD I BUY GOLD VERMEIL JEWELRY?
In the realm of gold jewelry, gold vermeil stands out as a top-tier option, offering exceptional quality just shy of solid gold. For individuals seeking an affordable yet high-quality alternative to solid gold, vermeil presents an ideal choice.
You can explore our selection of gold vermeil jewelry right here in our store! At ELLASMOLA, all our gold-tone products are crafted from either gold vermeil or solid gold. Our gold vermeil items feature a 14k gold layer, boasting a thickness of 2.5-3.0 microns. Additionally, we offer some 14k solid gold jewelry.