This is a term used to explain that the jewelry has a precious metal plated over the base metal. Examples of precious metals used for coating can be Gold, Rose Gold, Silver ,Sterling Silver& Rhodium. The base metals are mostly Stainless Steel, Brass & Copper.
There are 4 methods of gold plating.
- Gold Plated:- this is a thin layer of gold over metals. If jewelry that is gold plated isn’t handled with care, the coat will come out easily over time.
- Gold Filled:- this is a solid layer of gold mechanically bonded to a metal mostly brass. The Gold is mostly 12k or 14k gold. It’s good for everyday use.
- Gold Vermeil:- this is heavy gold plating on silver or sterling silver. This makes jewelry good for everyday use.
- Solid Gold:- this is pure gold. Costly but lasts forever.
