When it comes to choosing jewelry, understanding the materials used is essential. There’s a huge difference between gold-filled and gold-plated jewelry, how it wears, and how long it lasts. Gold-plated jewelry isn’t meant for everyday wear, however, a lot of larger brand names use gold-plated metal due to how significantly cheaper it is for them to manufacture their designs. Because of their name, they can slap a higher price tag on the piece and unsuspecting customers will assume that the quality matches the price tag – unfortunately, this is not the case. Gold-plated metal can be an amazing budget-friendly option for those pieces you plan to wear just a few times, but if you’re looking for everyday jewelry, here’s why you should opt for gold-filled.
WHAT IS GOLD-FILLED JEWELRY?
Gold filled jewelry is a durable, high-quality metal option when it comes to jewelry. It's crafted by heat bonding a thick layer of solid gold to an alloy base metal. The gold content in gold-filled jewelry is significantly more substantial than a thin layer of gold plating and wears in a completely different way.
THE BENEFITS OF GOLD-FILLED JEWELRY
Durability :: Gold filled jewelry is made to last and can be worn every day. The thickness of the pure gold layer ensures that it won't wear off, making it the perfect option to wear for years to come.
Hypoallergenic :: Because of the thickness of the outer layer, it is extremely rare that gold-filled jewelry will cause skin reactions in those with metal allergies.
Affordability :: Gold-filled metal offers a balance between affordability and quality. While it may cost more than gold-plated jewelry, it's a much more budget friendly option compared to solid gold, however the wear is consistent with solid gold pieces.
WHAT IS GOLD-PLATED JEWELRY?
Gold-plated jewelry is made by applying a very thin layer of gold to a base metal, often using the method of electroplating. This layer is much thinner than that of gold-filled jewelry, and will wear off over time, especially with regular wear.
THE BENEFITS OF GOLD-PLATED JEWELRY
Affordability :: Gold-plated jewelry is often inexpensive, making it accessible for a wider range of budgets.
Versatility :: It comes in a variety of designs and styles, allowing you to enjoy the look of gold without the cost of higher quality metals.
THE KEY DIFFERENCES
Thickness :: The most significant distinction between the two is the thickness of the gold layer. Gold-filled jewelry has a much thicker layer of gold compared to gold-plated jewelry, which makes it more durable and has been proven to stand the test of time.
Durability :: Gold-filled jewelry is much more resistant to wear and tear, making it suitable for everyday wear. Gold-plated jewelry, while beautiful, may need more delicate handling and occasional re-plating to maintain its appearance.
Price :: Gold-plated jewelry is generally more budget-friendly, while gold-filled jewelry offers higher quality and durability at a slightly higher cost.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT OPTION
The choice between gold-filled and gold-plated jewelry ultimately depends on your personal preference and intended use. If you're looking for long-lasting, everyday pieces that maintain their beauty over time, gold-filled jewelry is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want affordable, trendy jewelry for occasional wear, gold-plated pieces can be a stylish and budget-conscious choice.
Both gold-filled and gold-plated jewelry have their place in the world of fashion, catering to different needs and budgets. By understanding the differences between these two materials, you can confidently select the jewelry that best suits your style and needs. Whether it's a cherished heirloom you’ll be wearing daily or a fashionable accessory you plan to wear once or twice, hopefully this blog post helps you make the best choice for YOU!
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