Gold Vermeil Plating

What is gold vermeil?

Gold vermeil (pronounced "ver-may") is sterling silver that's been plated with a thick layer of gold. To qualify as vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick or more and at least 10k gold - this is significantly thicker than standard gold plating.

Why choose gold vermeil?

Affordable luxury - You get the beautiful look of solid gold jewelry at a fraction of the price, since the core is sterling silver.

Substantial gold layer - Unlike regular gold plating (which can be as thin as 0.2 microns), vermeil's thicker coating of 2.5 microns or more means it lasts much longer and wears better.

Quality base metal - The sterling silver base is valuable and hypoallergenic, unlike cheaper base metals used in regular gold-plated jewelry.

Real gold appearance - Because it's actual gold on the surface (usually 14k or 18k), it has the same rich color and luster as solid gold pieces.

Gold vermeil is more durable than standard gold plating, but the gold layer will gradually wear over time with regular use, especially on rings and bracelets. With proper care, vermeil jewelry can maintain its appearance for several years. High-contact areas may eventually show the silver underneath. Like rhodium plating, pieces can be replated to restore their original beauty, which is the advantage over gold filled (GF) with brass (aka gold-filled) as GF cannot have the gold replaced once it is rubbed off of the jewelers brass underneath.

Care tips:

Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising. Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products. Store in a dry place, ideally in individual pouches. Clean gently with a soft, lint-free cloth - avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the gold layer.