Jewellery is an essential part of women’s fashion and self-expression. The trend of wearing gold jewellery is increasing day by day, but it can be expensive for many people. To make it affordable, jewellery designers have introduced different options, such as gold-plated and gold vermeil jewellery. While both options have their own advantages, in this article, we will discuss why gold vermeil is a better choice than gold plated jewellery.
What is Gold Plated Jewellery? Gold plated jewellery is made by coating a base metal, usually brass or copper, with a thin layer of gold using an electroplating process. The thickness of the gold layer can vary, but it is generally less than 0.5 microns. The base metal is often used to keep the cost of the jewellery low.
What is Gold Vermeil Jewellery? Gold vermeil jewellery is made by coating a base metal, often sterling silver, with a thick layer of gold. The thickness of the gold layer in vermeil jewellery is typically 2.5 microns, making it more durable and longer-lasting than gold plated jewellery.
10 Reasons Why Gold Vermeil is Better than Gold Plated Jewellery:
Durability:
Gold vermeil jewellery is more durable than gold plated jewellery. The thicker layer of gold in vermeil jewellery ensures that it lasts longer without fading or tarnishing. Gold plated jewellery, on the other hand, can quickly lose its shine and colour due to the thin layer of gold. The base metal can also react with sweat and other chemicals, causing the plating to wear off faster.
Hypoallergenic:
Gold vermeil jewellery is hypoallergenic as it is made with a base of sterling silver, which is less likely to cause allergic reactions. Gold plated jewellery, on the other hand, can cause skin irritation as the base metal used in plating can be allergenic.
Better Quality:
Gold vermeil jewellery is made with higher quality materials, making it a better choice than gold plated jewellery. The use of sterling silver as a base ensures that the jewellery is more durable and long-lasting. It also means that the jewellery is less likely to react with the skin, making it more comfortable to wear.
Aesthetics:
Gold vermeil jewellery looks more luxurious and high-end compared to gold plated jewellery. The thicker layer of gold gives the jewellery a more substantial and refined appearance. The colour of gold vermeil jewellery is also richer and more vibrant than gold plated jewellery.
Value for Money:
While gold vermeil jewellery may be slightly more expensive than gold plated jewellery, it is a better investment in the long run. Its durability means that it will last longer, making it a more valuable and cost-effective choice. The higher quality of materials used in vermeil jewellery also means that it is a better investment for those looking for high-end jewellery at an affordable price.
Longevity:
As mentioned earlier, gold vermeil jewellery is more durable than gold plated jewellery. The thicker layer of gold ensures that the jewellery will last for a longer period without losing its shine or colour. Moreover, gold vermeil jewellery requires minimal maintenance compared to gold plated jewellery, which may require frequent cleaning and re-plating to maintain its appearance.
Resistance to Tarnishing:
Gold vermeil jewellery is less prone to tarnishing than gold plated jewellery. Tarnishing occurs when the surface of the metal reacts with environmental factors such as humidity, air, and pollutants. The thicker layer of gold in vermeil jewellery provides an additional barrier that prevents the base metal from tarnishing.
Sustainability:
Gold vermeil jewellery is a more sustainable choice than gold plated jewellery. The electroplating process used in gold plating involves the use of chemicals and heavy metals that can be harmful to the environment. In contrast, gold vermeil jewellery uses a thick layer of gold that is applied through a process that is less harmful to the environment. Additionally, gold vermeil jewellery often uses recycled gold, reducing the need for mining new gold.
Investment Value:
Gold vermeil jewellery holds its value better than gold plated jewellery. The higher quality materials used in gold vermeil jewellery, such as sterling silver, are more valuable than the base metals used in gold plated jewellery. The thicker layer of gold also adds to the value of the jewellery, making it a better investment in the long run.
Versatility:
Gold vermeil jewellery is more versatile than gold plated jewellery. The thickness of the gold layer in vermeil jewellery allows it to be re-polished and re-plated, giving it a new life and extending its longevity. Gold plated jewellery, on the other hand, cannot be re-plated once the thin layer of gold wears off.
In summary, gold vermeil jewellery is a better choice than gold plated jewellery for several reasons, including durability, hypoallergenic properties, better quality, aesthetics, value for money, longevity, resistance to tarnishing, sustainability, investment value, and versatility.
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