A guide to understanding the types of gold

When choosing gold jewelry, you may come across terms like gold filled, PVD gold plated, gold vermeil, gold plated, and solid gold and it can be overwhelming figuring out what it all means. While they all feature the warmth and luster of gold, the differences lie in how the gold is applied and how each piece will wear over time. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best option for you.

Solid Gold

What it is: Solid gold jewelry is made entirely of gold, though it’s often alloyed with other metals for strength (pure 24k gold is too soft for most wear). Common purities include 10k, 14k, and 18k.

Pros:

• Long-lasting and durable

• Hypoallergenic (especially higher karats)

• Can be worn daily, even in water

• Holds its value

Cons:

• Most expensive option

• Softer (in higher karats) and may scratch more easily

  
  

Best for: Heirloom-quality pieces or jewellery you plan to wear every day for many years.

Gold-Filled

What it is: Gold-filled jewellery consists of a thick layer of real gold (usually 14k) mechanically bonded to a base metal like brass. By law, the gold content must be at least 5% of the item’s total weight.

Pros:

• More affordable than solid gold

• Much more durable than gold plating

• Can last years with proper care

• Tarnish-resistant

Cons:

• Still more expensive than plated options

• May eventually wear down in high-friction areas

  
  

Best for: Everyday jewellery with a lower price tag and long-lasting quality.

PVD Gold Plating (Physical Vapor Deposition)

What it is: A high-tech plating process that bonds gold (or a gold-colored alloy) to a base metal using a vacuum coating technique. It creates a thin, durable finish that’s more resistant to fading.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and scratch-resistant

• Tarnish-resistant and waterproof

• More eco-friendly than traditional plating methods

• Affordable

Cons:

• Not solid gold—color may fade over time with rough wear

  
  

Best for: Fashion-forward pieces or active wearers wanting a gold look with high durability.

Gold Vermeil

What it is: Gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) is sterling silver coated with a thick layer of gold—usually 2.5 microns or more of 10k or higher gold, by industry standards.

Pros:

• Precious metal base (sterling silver)

• Thicker layer of gold than regular plating

• Hypoallergenic

• Affordable luxury option

Cons:

• Can wear off over time, especially with frequent wear

• Needs to be stored and cleaned carefully

• Not as durable as gold-filled or PVD-plated

Best for: Statement or occasion pieces with a luxury feel at a more accessible price.

Gold Plated

What it is: A base metal (like brass or stainless steel) coated with a very thin layer of gold through electroplating. The gold content is minimal—often less than 0.5 microns thick.

Pros:

• Most affordable option

• Good for trendy or occasional pieces

Cons:

• Wears off quickly, especially with water or sweat exposure

• Can tarnish

• Not always hypoallergenic

Best for: Short-term fashion jewellery or budget-friendly pieces you don’t wear every day.

Final Thoughts

Each type of gold jewellery has its place depending on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. At Thé Vert Jewellery, we believe in transparency and want you to feel confident in your choices. Whether you're investing in an everyday piece or treating yourself to a bold accessory, knowing the differences helps you shop smarter and wear with confidence.

If you have questions about the materials used in any of our pieces, feel free to contact us — we're always happy to help!