Gold, in any form, takes center stage in ceremonies and grand occasions. Not only is physical gold valuable in the economy, but it is also a common material used in the making of awards. Compared to other precious metals, gold stands out in part because of its high intrinsic value. However, choosing a specific gold piece to reflect refined taste can be challenging for most buyers. This article will touch on the different types of gold materials available on the market to purchase for jewelry.
Gold plated
Gold-plated materials only contain a tiny fraction of gold on the surface. The gold will eventually wear off, especially if you wear a gold-plated item daily. The base metal, in turn, might end up reacting with sensitive skin causing discomfort.
The only good side of gold-plated products is that it is relatively cheap and still looks as good as any other gold piece, at least for a short while. Gold-plated pieces are a great alternative when buying for a one-off activity.
Gold vermeil
Gold vermeil has a thicker gold coating than gold-plating, which only has about 0.05% of gold. The thick gold coating makes gold vermeil hypoallergenic; it will not react with sensitive skin.
In terms of prices, gold vermeil is slightly more expensive compared to gold-plating.
Some countries have standards on how much gold should go into a gold vermeil piece. The thicker gold coating on gold vermeil makes it more durable, making it suitable for long-term use. We recommend only buying your gold from a trusted trader to get the best quality gold vermeil.
Gold-filled
Gold-filling differs from other golf pieces because it features a gold layer mechanically bonded to a base metal. Most jewelers will use jeweler’s brass as the base metal. Some states require gold-filled pieces to contain no less than five percent gold.
Trust gold traders will only use 14k or 12k gold to create these beautiful gold pieces. There is only one drawback with this type of gold material, it is only available in wire or sheet form. This means that it can only be used to make pieces such as rings and charms.
Gold-filled contains a hundred times more gold and subsequently lasts just as long compared to gold-plated pieces. The thick gold coating also shields the skin from any irritation. Price-wise, gold-filled products are less expensive compared to solid gold while offering similar benefits.
Solid gold
Solid gold is composed purely of gold without a base metal. This category of gold material can only be separated into different karats; the ratio between gold and alloy contained within. 24 karat gold has the most gold but is too soft to use. You will find that reputable gold bars as well as most gold coins are composed of solid gold.
It is mixed with other metals to make gold stronger to form malleable alloys. Solid 14karat gold is the best form of gold there is for making final products. It is durable and does not react with sensitive skin. The price tag on Solid gold is the highest for any type of gold because it uses the most amount of gold.
The bottom line
There are a few types of gold articles in the market today. Most buyers have a hard time telling one from another which leaves them vulnerable to con artists selling fake pieces. Here is a quick summary of your gold materials and their qualities:
Gold plated
•Often inexpensive
•Is not durable
•This material will tarnish easily
•Often causes reactions with the skin
Gold Filled
•Sold at an affordable price
•It can be worn daily without tarnishing
•Durable
•Hypoallergenic; suitable for all skin types
Solid Gold
•This material is priced highest compared to other gold materials
•It does not react with the skin
•It can be worn daily; it is very durable
•Does not tarnish
Gold Vermeil
•Gold vermeil does not tarnish
•It is often sold at affordable prices
•It is hypoallergenic
•Its sound quality makes it suitable for wearing everyday
Always remember to buy your gold from a trusted gold trader.
