Gold Filled vs Gold Plated

Short story.  It comes down to price and longevity.  Both can have a nice look of gold, but bottom-line: gold filled jewelry is better than gold plated.  With gold filled jewelry, the gold is bonded to the base metal, whereas gold plating is simply a thin layer of gold plated on top of the base metal. But with all jewelry, longevity is based on care and maintenance. Want more info on how karats factor into the equation  (and my funny pun)? Read on.

1) Real gold jewelry ($$$): We know solid gold is obviously the best as it is a precious metal. It’s the best option if you want jewelry pieces that last BUT it is the most expensive (and I probably won't be selling real gold jewelry).

2) Gold-filled jewelry ($$) consists of a base material coated in a layer and much thicker gold coat than gold plated jewelry. Because it is a higher gold content, gold-filled jewelry is one of the better alternatives to real gold jewelry and is more durable than gold plated. High-karat gold-filled jewelry can last many years (providing appropriate care and maintenance is given to the piece, see policies for questions). 

3) Gold-Plated jewelry ($) is generally cheaper than any other type of gold option. But, as with anything, you get what you pay for. Its main downside is that gold-plating doesn’t last very long, tarnishes easily and may cause a reaction if you have metal allergies.  It is a good options for low priced 'trendy' short term jewelry (think Claires, etc.). There is also gold "Vermeil" which is a leveled-up version of gold-plating, and will last longer than standard plating as it is plated over sterling silver.

Want to go deeper down the rabbit hole, let's talk about karats? (ha ha.. get it, carrots).. anyway.

  • 10k gold (10/24 parts, or 41.7% purity) is the most durable, yet has the least gold content.
  • 14k gold (58.3% purity) offers an effective balance of strength and aesthetic.
  • 18k gold (75% purity) is considered gold’s purest form while still being practical. Think high-end jewelry, engagement rings, etc. 18k gold scratches more easily than 14k or 10k gold.
  • 24k gold ..pure gold baby.