The Difference Between Gold Plated and Gold-Filled

There are many different ways to show that special someone how much they mean to you, like gifting them a gorgeous piece of gold jewelry. A time-honored tradition that will never go out of style, gold jewelry can make a statement or serve as a subtle reminder of the love you share.

But shopping for the perfect piece of jewelry can be intimidating -- whether you are looking for yourself or another person. From deciding on the right style to the materials used and occasion, you must know what your options are. When it comes to gold jewelry, you will notice it is typically classified into two main types - gold plated and gold-filled.

Confusing, we know.

When purchasing gold jewelry, you must have done your research, and you understand the differences (and similarities) between the various options. Solid gold is the highest quality and most expensive. Next comes gold-filled, a less expensive alternative that still carries great value, quality, and purity. Gold plated jewelry is significantly cheaper, but an excellent option for those fashionistas shopping on a budget. Which one speaks to you will depend on numerous factors, including personal preference, how much you want to spend, and overall accessibility. To help you decide which is best for you, let's break down the differences between gold plated and gold-filled.

What is Gold-Filled?

Gold-filled jewelry is a beautiful, economical option for any gold lover. These pieces are created by pressure bonding an actual layer of gold to another metal. The result of this process is a valuable, stunning, tarnish-resistant piece of jewelry that will withstand pretty much anything you put it through! If properly cared for, gold filled jewelry can last a lifetime. Even though gold filled jewelry isn't solid gold, it has the same aesthetic of solid gold and is an excellent option for those with sensitivities to certain metals. Gold-filled rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings can be worn daily without fear of discoloration or any other potential problems. It's a win-win!

 What is Gold Plated?

Gold plated, on the other hand, starts with a base metal such as brass or copper. The base metal is cleaned and shaped, preparing it for a very thin layer of gold to be bonded. Often, gold plated jewelry is referred to as gold overlay, which is just another way of describing the style. The downside to gold plated jewelry is that it isn't as durable, and there's a chance the plating will start to wear over time. For this reason, gold plated jewelry is a great option that will keep you 'on trend' without breaking the bank, but it may not be ideal for a forever piece.

As mentioned earlier, gold-filled pieces are typically more durable because of the thick layer of gold bonded to the metal. However, longevity will depend on the wearer, how well they care for the piece, and their lifestyle. Both are great options that serve different purposes; it will just depend on the person and what their intentions are for the piece of jewelry.

London Manori was created out of a mutual desire to create stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces of designer jewelry that speak to the heart. Our gold collection offers simple statement pieces that will stand up to the test of time. Now that you know what the main differences are between gold filled and gold plated, you’re ready to dive in and find the piece that speaks to you!