What Is Gold Vermeil?

Gold vermeil is a thick layer of solid gold plating on top of sterling silver used to create a long lasting durable finish. This layer of gold is often 5 times that found on standard gold plated jewellery. The gold is usually 14 or 18 karat. The particular karat used will influence the finished colour of the jewellery with 18K typically being paler than 14. The layer of gold will be at least 2.5 microns thick. So, the answer to the question 'is gold vermeil better than gold plated? it definitely is! The layer of gold is a good amount and underneath this thick layer is sterling silver as opposed to a base metal which you will find sometimes in some gold plated jewellery. So let's delve deeper into this...

The process of creating vermeil jewellery was developed in the 19th century. Jewellery that looked like solid gold could be made without the high costs of production. A less expensive metal (silver) was layered with gold. Therefore more affordable pieces of jewellery could be created. This process transformed the offering available and thrust gold jewellery into popularity. Today it is still used as a way of producing high quality jewellery without the corresponding high price tag which the same piece in sold gold would command.

Whilst the term 'vermeil' originates from France, silver-gilt or gilded/gilt silver is commonly used within the jewellery industry in the UK. Most large objects which look gold made in goldsmithing are actually silver-gilt. For example, most sporting trophies and, in fact, many crown jewels are made of silver-gilt.

Gold Vermeil Jewellery

Gold Honey Bee Pendant Necklace

Here at Flutterby we sell a beautiful range. We love it because it is better quality and lasts longer than gold plated base metal jewellery.

In our Gold Jewellery collection, you will find gold vermeil necklaces, gold vermeil bracelets, and gold vermeil earrings. Our customers enjoy mixing different styles of jewellery - the elements don't have to all be from one design collection. For example, you could pair a gold vermeil necklace like the Honey Bee Gold Plated Necklace with earrings like the Vicky Cubic Zirconia Huggie Earrings, - just remember to look at what karat plating on each piece is so that the colour of gold compliments each other, as these ones here do.

The necklace worn below the bee in this photograph is the Gold Initial Disc.

Gold Vermeil Necklaces

The majority of the gold necklaces in our Gold Jewellery collection are made from gold vermeil. We have many different styles for you to choose from. If you are looking for something elegantly simple to wear everyday, then our Single Pearl Necklace is very popular. It looks stunning on its own but also pairs really well with the Pearl Halo Pendant creating a beautiful layered look. The Single Pearl Necklace is on a short Gold Adjustable Chain so it is easy to adjust the length and it can be worn above the Pearl Halo Pendant. We love the combination of the gold vermeil chain and beautiful freshwater pearl drop in our Heidi Pearl Necklace.

Gold Vermeil Earrings

All of the gold earrings we sell are made of sterling silver with excellent quality gold plated earring posts, earring wires or huggies. Therefore you can be reassured that there are no base metal elements going into your ear. This is important when considering any metal allergies. Whether you are looking for a stylish 'go-to' Gold Bamboo Hoop Earring or a glamorous larger Aphrodite Large Stone Gold Hoops, we have plenty of options to choose from.

How To Look After Gold Vermeil Jewellery

Whilst the layer of gold on the top of the sterling silver is more than you'll find on gold plated base metal jewellery, it is important to care for your jewellery properly to keep the gold looking shiny and to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Despite claims to the contrary, any plated jewellery will last much longer if it is kept dry and away from perfumes, body lotions and suncreams.

Can wear gold vermeil jewellery in the shower? The answer is that if you want your jewellery to keep looking its best for a long time then try not to get it wet. Having said that, even when the plating does start to wear if the jewellery is worn hard for a long period of time, the metal you'll see starting to appear from under the gold will be silver not a black or orange base metal! So if you're wondering does gold vermeil turn green? The answer is it shouldn't do!

Does Gold Vermeil Tarnish?

Over time, it will experience some tarnishing due to the process of oxidisation. The gold and the base metal (sterling silver) will gradually react with the air. Body lotions, sweat and water speed up the tarnishing process so it is best to avoid contact with these. We supply an anti tarnish jewellery pouch with every piece of jewellery. Keeping your jewellery in this pouch will help to keep it looking shiny. An alternative is to keep your gold vermeil in a sealed airtight bag to reduce the contact with air.

How To Clean Gold Vermeil

The best way to clean this jewellery is to give it a gentle rub with a microfibre cloth. It is best to avoid 'polishing' it as you don't want to wear away the lovely gold layer.

How Long Does Gold Vermeil Jewellery Last?

Both of us have gold vermeil jewellery which is many years old and has been, and continues to be, well worn and looks great! We are very confident in the quality of our gold vermeil. We are always keen to hear from customers if they have had a problem with the quality of our jewellery, and we can replate items if it is within a year of the time of purchase. Gold vermeil is a durable alloy but you need to look after it. It is much better quality than you'll find in flash gold plated base metal jewellery. Whilst it will eventually wear over time it is worth the investment and will last much longer.

Is Gold Vermeil Jewellery Hallmarked?

Yes, if the individual piece of jewellery weighs more than 7.78 grams it should have a silver hallmark because it is made of 925 silver underneath the gold plating. You can read more about hallmarking on the The Goldsmiths' Company website.