Gold, Gold Filled, and Gold Plated Jewellery: Understanding the Differences

When looking to purchase gold breastmilk jewellery and memorial keepsakes, it is essential to understand the various types of gold products available in the market and their differences. Gold, gold filled, and gold plated jewellery are the three most common types of gold jewellery, but they are not the same in terms of quality, durability, and price. In this blog post, I will explain the difference between gold, gold filled, and gold plated jewellery.

Gold Jewellery

Gold jewellery is made of solid gold, which is an alloy of gold, silver, and other metals. According to the World Gold Council, the purity of gold is measured in karats, with 24 karat gold being the purest form of gold. Pure gold is soft and therefore not ideal for jewellery making, so gold is often mixed with other metals to make it more durable. The higher the karat number, the more gold is in the alloy, and the more expensive the jewellery is.

Gold Filled Jewellery

Gold filled jewellery is a type of jewellery made by bonding a thick layer of gold over a core metal such as sterling silver or a base metal. According to Cookson Gold, the gold layer in gold filled jewellery is much thicker than in gold plated jewellery and is also more durable. Gold filled jewellery is not as valuable as solid gold jewellery, but it is more durable than gold plated jewellery and often more affordable.

Gold Plated Jewellery

Gold plated jewellery is made by applying a thin layer of gold over a base metal such as brass or nickel. According to jewellery experts at Blue Nile, the gold layer is usually only a few microns thick and is not nearly as durable as solid gold. Over time, the gold plating can wear off, exposing the base metal underneath. Gold plated jewellery is typically less expensive than solid gold jewellery but also less valuable.

When purchasing gold jewellery, it is crucial to understand the differences between gold, gold filled, and gold plated jewellery. Solid gold jewellery is the most valuable and durable, but it is also the most expensive. Gold plated jewellery is less expensive but also less durable. Gold filled jewellery offers a good balance between affordability and durability. When making a decision, consider your budget, your intended use, and the longevity you want in your jewellery. The information in this blog post is based on expert opinions from the World Gold Council, Blue Nile, and the American Gem Society.