15 AUGUST 2022 - HS WRITER
Gold vermeil is an affordable alternative to solid gold jewellery. In a nutshell, it’s the design and durability you love without the solid gold price tag. Our gold vermeil pieces start out as sterling silver. Then an extra thick layer of real gold (that’s five times thicker than gold-plating) is coated over the top to give it long-lasting quality. The benefits of gold vermeil include its longevity, low price and high quality; it’s what we like to call affordable luxury and means you can wear your favourite piece on repeat.
GOLD PLATED VS GOLD VERMEIL: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Gold plated jewellery features a thin layer of real gold over the top of an affordable metal such as copper. The layer of solid gold is usually thinner than that on gold vermeil and because the base metal is lower quality than solid silver, gold plated jewellery is far less expensive than gold vermeil jewellery. Gold vermeil is a solid silver piece plated with a thicker layer of gold, it has the look, feel and often the weight of a solid gold piece but with a lower price tag.
Of course, this doesn’t detract from the value of gold-plated jewellery from a collector’s perspective. It’s a fab option if you are buying for fashion as it looks great but doesn’t cost the earth, a great choice when gifting for your bestie. We believe it’s great to have options suited to every budget and style. You may want to spend more on a solid gold piece that you know you’ll keep in your jewellery box forever and spend less on jewellery that you know is more of a trend that may come and go over the years and won’t be worn day in, day out.
HOW TO STYLE GOLD VERMEIL
We’re all about layering your neckline and stacking your fingers – a trend that’s got staying power. Stack different gold vermeil rings on top of one another or layer your fave gold vermeil necklace with other gold pieces from your ever-growing collection. Slight differences in colour only enhance the look, giving an edge to classic gold jewellery. Yellow gold has made a comeback recently, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Yellow gold suits every skin tone, and when worn with precious gemstones, yellow gold jewellery really does come to life.
LOOKING AFTER GOLD VERMEIL
So, does gold vermeil wear off? And how long does gold vermeil last? Frequent (and very valid) questions.
As with any plated jewellery, the plating will wear over time. But due to the far thicker layer applied to vermeil gold when compared to gold-plated jewellery, the process takes longer. With the right care, you can enjoy your gorgeous gold vermeil jewellery for many years to come. When you’re not wearing your jewellery, keep it stored in an air-tight container or bag and always out of direct sunlight to avoid natural tarnishing. We’d recommend you remove gold vermeil rings when washing your hands or doing the dishes, as the chemicals in soaps and detergents will speed up the wear process.
HOW LONG DOES GOLD VERMEIL LAST?
In many ways, this is like asking how long a pair of trainers will last. The answer depends on how often you wear it. If kept for special occasions or weekly wear, you will get years of enjoyment from your gold vermeil jewellery before wear and tear begins to show. If your piece becomes a staple everyday wear, especially when next to other jewellery, wear and tear will show quicker. It’s worth taking into account how often you’ll wear your jewellery piece when considering vermeil vs solid gold jewellery and where you want to invest your money. However, you can also speak to us about our re-plating service to keep your jewellery in perfect condition.
CAN GOLD VERMEIL GET WET?
Always remove your gold vermeil jewellery before swimming or showering. There are harsh chemicals in swimming pools that will speed up the wear process and likewise, even shower and tap water is treated with chemicals to make it safe for human contact and consumption, so to be on the safe side, keep your gold vermeil jewellery dry.
GOLD VERMEIL VS GOLD-PLATING: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
Our gold vermeil pieces start out as sterling silver. Then an extra thick layer of real gold (that’s five times thicker than gold-plating) is coated over the top to give it long-lasting quality. So, you can wear your favourite pieces again and again. Vermeil is what we like to call affordable luxury. It allows us to create pieces that combine fashion and fine jewellery at prices that are right for you. From hoops and huggies to everyday stacking rings, paired with gems, like birthstones or diamonds. Want to find out more? Book an appointment with our style experts today.