Jewelry is an accessory that adds glamour and style to any outfit. When it comes to jewelry metals, there are a variety of options to choose from. Each metal has its own unique properties and characteristics, which can impact the look, feel, and durability of the piece. In this blog post, we will discuss four different types of jewelry metals: gold plated, gold filled, gold in karats, and gold vermeil.
Gold Plated
Gold plated jewelry is made by applying a thin layer of gold onto a base metal using an electroplating process. The base metal is typically brass, copper, or nickel. The thickness of the gold layer can vary, but it is generally between 0.5 and 2 microns. Gold plated jewelry is less expensive than solid gold, but it also tends to wear off more quickly. The plating can be damaged by exposure to water, sweat, or chemicals, which can cause the metal to tarnish or turn green.
Gold Filled
Gold filled jewelry is made by bonding a layer of solid gold to a base metal using heat and pressure. The gold layer in gold filled jewelry is typically at least 5% of the total weight of the piece. This makes gold filled jewelry more durable and long-lasting than gold plated jewelry. It is also more expensive than gold plated jewelry. Gold filled jewelry is a good option for those who want the look and feel of solid gold without the high price tag.
Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil is a type of gold plating that is done over sterling silver. To be considered vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick and the silver must be at least .925 pure. Vermeil is a good option for those who want the look of solid gold without the high price tag. It is also more durable than traditional gold plated jewelry.
Gold in Karats
Gold in karats refers to the purity of the gold used in jewelry. Pure gold is 24 karats, but it is too soft to be used in jewelry. Most gold jewelry is made with 14k or 18k gold, which means that it is 58.3% or 75% pure gold, respectively. The remaining percentage is made up of other metals, such as copper or silver, which are added to give the gold more strength and durability. The higher the karat weight, the more expensive the piece will be.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is a popular metal for jewelry making. It is an alloy of silver that contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This composition gives sterling silver its durability and strength while still maintaining its lustrous appearance. Sterling silver jewelry is a good choice for those with sensitive skin as it is hypoallergenic. It is also less expensive than gold, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Base Metals
Base metals are non-precious metals that are often used in jewelry making. Some common base metals include brass, copper, and nickel. These metals are less expensive than precious metals and can be easily manipulated to create intricate designs. However, base metals may not be as durable or long-lasting as precious metals. They can also cause skin irritation in some people, especially if they contain nickel.
Sterling silver and base metals are two other common options for jewelry making. Sterling silver is a durable and hypoallergenic metal that is less expensive than gold. Base metals are non-precious metals that can be used to create intricate designs, but may not be as durable or hypoallergenic as precious metals. It is important to consider the properties of each metal when choosing jewelry to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.
When it comes to jewelry metals, there are a variety of options to choose from. Gold plated jewelry is less expensive but tends to wear off more quickly. Gold filled jewelry is more durable and long-lasting but is more expensive. Gold in karats refers to the purity of the gold used in jewelry, and the higher the karat weight, the more expensive the piece will be. Gold vermeil is a type of gold plating that is done over sterling silver and is a good option for those who want the look of solid gold without the high price tag.