Curious about gold-plated jewelry? Learn what it is, how it’s made, and whether it’s worth the investment. Read on to find out more!
What is Gold-Plated Jewelry?
Gold-plated jewelry is created by applying a thin layer of gold to a base metal such as copper, brass, stainless steel, or silver. This process results in affordable jewelry pieces that mimic the appearance of solid gold. Essentially, “gold-plated” means that the item is coated with gold, giving it the same look as solid gold jewelry without the high price tag.
While gold-plated jewelry offers an attractive and cost-effective alternative to solid gold, it does come with some drawbacks. The thin gold layer can wear off over time, especially when exposed to water, sweat, or harsh chemicals. Jewelry with thinner plating is more prone to chipping and tarnishing, which makes proper care essential to maintain its appearance and longevity.
Despite these considerations, gold-plated jewelry remains a popular choice due to its beauty and affordability.
Is It Real?
The short answer is NO. While the outside appearance IS gold, a jewelry item, for it to be categorized as an authentic jewelry piece, should be made entirely out of either gold or platinum; noble metals that are commonly associated with jewelry pieces. Remember, your jewelry items are wearable investments and thus should be able to hold value or at the very least could be used as collateral for a loan.
What Are the Types of Gold-Plating?
1. Electroplating
Electroplating is the most common method used for gold-plating. In this process, an electric current is used to deposit a thin layer of gold onto a conductive base material. The gold is dissolved into a solution and then applied to the metal. Electroplated jewelry can vary in durability depending on the thickness of the gold layer. Jewelry with a gold layer of 2 microns or more is more durable and long-lasting.
There are two main types of electroplating:
- Flash Gold-Plating: Used for costume jewelry and decorative items, this process involves a very thin gold layer (approximately 0.175 microns), which is less durable and more prone to wear.
- Hard Gold-Plating: This method uses a gold alloy mixed with metals like nickel or cobalt for added durability. It is often used for higher-end jewelry.
2. Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil is gold-plated sterling silver. To qualify as gold vermeil, the base metal must be sterling silver, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick, and the gold must be a minimum of 10 karats.
This type of gold-plating is more durable and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for fine jewelry and individuals with sensitive skin. While gold vermeil is more expensive than regular gold-plated jewelry, its higher quality makes it worth the investment for many.
3. Gold-Filled
Gold-filled jewelry features a thick layer of gold bonded to a base metal using heat and pressure. These pieces must consist of at least 5% real gold by weight. Gold-filled jewelry is more durable and tarnish-resistant than standard gold-plated jewelry.
In addition to being long-lasting, gold-filled jewelry is hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for people with sensitivities. However, it is important to note that gold-filled jewelry is still not solid gold.
How Long Does Gold-Plated Jewelry Last? Can it Be Considered an Investment?
The lifespan of gold-plated jewelry depends on the thickness of the gold layer and how well it is cared for:
Thin gold layers (less than 0.175 microns): Jewelry with very thin gold layers typically lasts 6 months to a year with regular use before the plating begins to fade or chip.
Thicker gold layers (2–5 microns): Jewelry with thicker plating can last 2 years or more with proper care. These pieces are often used for higher-quality gold-plated jewelry.
The durability of gold-plated jewelry is also influenced by:
- Frequency of Use: Daily wear can expose the jewelry to sweat, water, and other substances, which can cause the gold layer to fade more quickly.
- Base Metal: Certain base metals, such as copper and brass, can speed up the fading process due to chemical reactions with the gold.
Whether gold-plated jewelry is worth it depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to enjoy the look of gold, gold-plated jewelry is an excellent option. However, if you value longevity and prefer a low-maintenance piece, investing in solid gold jewelry might be a better choice.
Is Gold-Plated Jewelry Pawnable?
Unfortunately, no—gold-plated jewelry is not typically accepted at pawn shops. A key indicator that a piece is gold-plated is the “GP” or “GEP” inscription found on the jewelry.
Gold-plated jewelry may not be a good piece for investment, especially if you’re considering to resell or have it pawned. However, gold-plated jewelry is a great stye choice for anyone who loves the look of gold without the expense.
Unsure of whether a piece is made from solid gold or is simply gold-plated, consider consulting a recognized jewelry appraiser. You may reach out to Willyn Villarica, a NAJA-accredited jewelry appraiser, via email at willynvillarica@willynvillaricajewelry.com, on Facebook at Willyn Villarica Jewelry, or Instagram at @willynvillarica_jewelry.