Vermeil and gold plated jewelry are two popular gold jewelry options. But with different compositions and price points, many shoppers wonder – which is better?

This in-depth guide examines vermeil vs gold plated jewelry. It covers topics like:

What is vermeil jewelry?
What is gold plated jewelry?
Vermeil vs gold plated durability
Cost differences
Care and maintenance
How to spot quality vermeil and gold plated pieces

By the end, you’ll understand the key differences between these two gold jewelry types. You’ll also learn which option offers better value and longevity.

What is Vermeil Jewelry?

Vermeil refers to sterling silver plated with a layer of gold. The term comes from the French “vermeil doré,” meaning “gilded silver.”

To be considered true vermeil jewelry in the US, the gold layer must meet certain standards:

Minimum thickness of 2.5 microns – This ensures adequate coverage to prevent wear.
Minimum purity of 10k gold – 10 karats means the gold is 41.7% pure. Higher karat gold can also be used.
Sterling silver base – Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver. It provides a solid foundation for the gold layer.

With its sterling silver base and karat gold coating, vermeil combines two precious metals. This gives it an elevated status between fine and costume jewelry. Vermeil is considered “demi-fine” jewelry.

How is Vermeil Jewelry Made?

Vermeil jewelry goes through a specialized gold plating process. To create each piece:

The item is cast or fabricated using sterling silver.
The silver goes through cleaning and pre-plating treatments. This prepares the surface for gold plating.
The silver piece gets submerged in a gold electrolyte solution. An electric current bonds the gold layer to the silver.
The thickness of the gold layer is carefully controlled. This ensures it meets the legal vermeil standard.
After plating, the jewelry gets polished to an elegant finish.

Reputable vermeil should come with a manufacturer guarantee of the gold layer’s purity and thickness.

Price Range of Vermeil Jewelry

As a high-quality plated metal, vermeil sits at a middle price point. It’s more expensive than regular silver or gold plated jewelry. But it’s also notably cheaper than solid 14k or 18k gold jewelry.

Some typical vermeil price ranges are:

Vermeil rings – $100 to $300
Vermeil necklaces – $150 to $400
Vermeil bracelets – $80 to $250
Vermeil earrings – $50 to $200

Of course, designer pieces can sometimes cost more. The karat of gold also impacts price, with 14k or 18k vermeil costing more than standard 10k vermeil.

Pros of Vermeil Jewelry

What are the benefits that make vermeil a staple jewelry type?

Rich gold finish – With its thick layer of karat gold, vermeil has a beautiful gold shine. The gold tone looks smooth and polished.

Hypoallergenic – The sterling silver base is hypoallergenic. This makes vermeil suitable for those with metal sensitivities.

Holds up well to wear – Thanks to its sterling silver foundation and adequate gold layer, quality vermeil is durable. It doesn’t flake or rub off easily.

Higher resale value – Compared to regular plated jewelry, vermeil has better resale prospects if properly cared for. This makes vermeil a smart investment.

More substantial feel – Vermeil has noticeable heft and weight. The sterling silver base gives it a solid, quality feel.

Versatile styling – From everyday pieces to formal looks, vermeil works for varied occasions. Its neutral tone pairs with many gems and outfits.

For those wanting fine jewelry elegance on a budget, vermeil is an excellent option.

What is Gold Plated Jewelry?

Gold plated jewelry gets its name from the process used to make it. The jewelry has a base metal that gets coated in a thin layer of gold via electroplating.

Some key facts about gold plated jewelry:

The base metals are usually brass, copper, or nickel silver.
There are no legal requirements for the gold layer’s thickness or karat weight.
Items simply labeled “gold plated” or “GP” can have a very light gold coating. Higher quality is usually marked with the gold karat purity like “14k gold plated.”
Gold plating is the most affordable way to get a gold finish. But cheaper pieces won’t last as long or have the same richness of color.
Gold plated jewelry needs more care and maintenance to prevent wear of the gold layer.

Next, we’ll go over the electroplating process used to make gold plated jewelry.

How is Gold Plated Jewelry Made?

Electroplating relies on electrical currents to deposit thin layers of gold onto base metals. Here are the key steps:

The base metal piece gets polished to ensure a smooth surface.
The metal gets cleaned to remove any dirt or tarnish.
The electroplating solution contains gold ions which get drawn to the metal surface by electric current.
As the gold ions bond, the atoms build up to form a thin uniform layer.
The thickness of the plating depends on the time immersed. A lighter plating takes less time.
The plated item gets rinsed, dried, and polished for extra shine.

While gold plating can seem similar to vermeil plating, there are no legal standards for the gold layer’s purity or thickness.

Price Differences Between Vermeil and Gold Plated

As you may expect, vermeil jewelry comes with a higher price tag than regular gold plated pieces.

Gold plated jewelry can start around $20 to $40 for fashion pieces from department stores. Fine gold plated pieces with thicker plating and 14k or 18k gold can cost up to $100 to $200.

Vermeil jewelry has a starting price around $100 for more delicate items. Most quality vermeil costs $150 to $300+ for the average ring, necklace, or bracelet.

With vermeil, you pay for the precious sterling silver base metal and regulated gold plating. Gold plated jewelry has cheaper base metals and unregulated plating quality.

Vermeil vs Gold Plated Durability Compared

Durability is a major consideration when choosing between vermeil and gold plated.

Gold plated jewelry can last anywhere from a few months to a few years. Over time, the thin gold layer eventually wears away revealing the base metal underneath. With inexpensive fashion pieces, this can happen quickly.

Higher karat gold plating like 14k or 18k may last longer, but usually needs re-plating every 2 to 5 years as the gold wears down.

Vermeil has better durability thanks to its sterling silver foundation and adequate 2.5 micron gold layer minimum. Quality vermeil jewelry can last 5, 10 years or longer before needing a touch up.

Here are some other durability factors to consider:

Where is the jewelry worn? Gold plating wears fastest on rings and bracelets. The constant movement causes more friction compared to necklaces and earrings.
How often is the jewelry worn? Daily wear means more exposure to oils, soap, and abrasion that can gradually strip the gold finish.
How is the jewelry cared for? Proper care is essential for longevity. More on maintenance next.

While vermeil is more durable, both finishes still require some babying for long-lasting shine.

Caring for and Maintaining Vermeil vs Gold Plated Jewelry

To get the most enjoyment from vermeil and gold plated pieces, proper care is a must. Here are some tips:

Handle with care – Avoid knocking or scraping plated items against hard surfaces. This can scratch and thin the gold layer over time.

Clean regularly – Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away dirt, lotions, and oils that build up. Hand wash plated jewelry with mild soap and water.

Avoid chemicals – Prevent exposure to chlorine, perfumes, hairspray and other harsh chemicals. Don’t wear plated jewelry in the shower.

Take off when active – Perspiration and sports can be rough on plated finishes. Remove jewelry beforehand.

Store properly – Keep plated pieces in soft fabric pouches separate from other jewelry to avoid scratches.

Vermeil is lower maintenance than regular gold plated jewelry. But following these tips can help both look like new for longer!

How to Spot Quality Vermeil and Gold Plated Jewelry

Not all vermeil and gold plated jewelry gets made equally. With some tips, you can identify quality pieces:

Check markings – Reputable vermeil should be stamped with purity marks for the sterling silver and karat gold used. Quality gold plated pieces will indicate the karat weight like 14k or 18k GP.

Examine finish – Higher end plating has a smooth, consistent shine free of spots or tarnish. Vermeil has a richer gold color compared to lighter gold plated jewelry.

Assess weight – Heft and density are good signs of a sterling silver or brass base under the plating. Lightweight pieces are more likely cheap pot metal.

Review seller – Buy vermeil and fine gold plated jewelry from reputable designers and retailers known for quality. Beware bargain plated pieces.

Look for guarantees – Many vermeil jewelers offer guarantees of the gold layer meeting legal standards. This provides peace of mind.

Scrutinizing plated jewelry takes some diligence to find quality. But the payoff is enjoying beautiful gold pieces that stand the test of time.

Should You Choose Vermeil or Gold Plated Jewelry?

So should you go for vermeil or gold plated jewelry? Here are some final recommendations:

Go for vermeil if you want:

Longer lasting gold jewelry
Ability to pass down heirloom pieces
Hypoallergenic precious metals
Investment worthy jewelry

Opt for quality gold plated if you want:

Trendy gold finishes on a budget
Costume or fashion jewelry
Ability to easily change up styles
Minimal maintenance

Best for everyday wear: Vermeil, since it holds up better to daily use and wear.

Best for special occasions: Vermeil or 14k+ gold plated provide a touch of luxury.

Most bang for your buck: Vermeil gives you higher end materials for the price.

While vermeil does cost more upfront, its longevity provides better value in the long run. But gold plated serves its purpose for affordable gold looks you can frequently change up.

Understanding the differences allows you to choose the best gold jewelry for your lifestyle and budget!

References:

The FTC Jewelry Guides – outline legal standards for vermeil jewelry in the US: https://www.ftc.gov/enforcement/rules/rulemaking-regulatory-reform-proceedings/jewelry-guides
Vermeil vs Gold Plated – Guide to Jewelry Metals – overview of key differences between vermeil and gold plated: https://www.invaluable.com/blog/jewelry-guide/vermeil-vs-gold-plated/
What’s the Difference Between Vermeil and Gold Plated? – discusses durability, price, and care considerations: https://frankdarling.com/vermeil-vs-gold-plated/
How to Care for Your Gold Plated & Vermeil Jewelry – tips from jewelry designer on maintenance: https://catbirdnyc.com/jewelry-care.html
Vermeil vs. Gold Plated: Which Finish Should You Choose? – comparison of pros and cons of each type: https://www.thelastline.com/blogs/resources/vermeil-vs-gold-plated-which-finish-should-you-choose
Everything You Need To Know About Vermeil Jewelry – overview of what vermeil is, how it differs from gold plating: https://www.withchic.com/vermeil-jewelry/
What is Gold Plating? – explains the gold plating process and common karat weights used: https://www.liaigre.com/what-is-gold-plating/#What_is_Gold_Plating
How To Spot Quality Vermeil & Gold Plated Pieces – tips on identifying fine vermeil and gold plated jewelry: https://frankdarling.com/how-to-spot-quality-vermeil-and-gold-plated-jewelry/