There are so many demi-fine and costume jewellery brand out there now, and that's great news! Plenty of options for you to choose from when looking for affordable, lower priced pieces. It is important that you understand the difference in the materials before you make a purchase, so you know exactly what you're buying and how long it's likely to last you.
SOLID GOLD
In the UK, the most popular carats for solid gold jewellery is either 9ct or 18ct. In Europe and US, 10k and 14k seem to be more popular (it makes things slightly confusing that we use different letters for carat/karat!).
Solid gold jewellery will last you a lifetime and generations to come, if made well and cared for properly. If you pass these pieces down to your children/grandchildren, the gold will be suitable for remodelling into something new, or be enjoyed as it is. Solid gold is strong enough to be worn daily and for a lifetime, with proper care.
Solid gold pieces, particularly those made by independent jewellers/goldsmiths, tend to be more "solid" than mass produced, high street versions, as there aren't as many cost saving exercises involved. For example, many high street engagement rings and wedding bands tend to have been hollowed out on the inside, to save money on the metal. This however makes the ring weaker and can put stones at risk.
GOLD VERMEIL
This term means the piece has to be made from sterling silver, which is a precious metal, and plated with at least 2.5 microns on gold, which is a thick layer. It is more costly, as more gold is used, but it is the most durable and longest lasting of all the plated options.
Gold vermeil pieces tend to be used for what I like to call, "occasion wear" jewellery - items you'd wear out for dinner, on holiday etc but not every day. If you do wear them every day, the plating will likely wear away quicker, depending on your body's natural oils and what you expose the jewellery to (lotions, water, perfume etc).
This is the best quality plated jewellery, because the metal underneath is sterling silver. It is suitable for re-plating and the pieces can last you a very long time, if you look after them well.
PLATED GOLD
This term refers to any metal that has been plated - silver, copper, brass, stainless steel, titanium - the list goes on! The issue with these base metals, is that they are more likely to cause a reaction with those who have sensitive skin (like myself), and they are not considered a "precious metal".
The plating itself can be anywhere from 1-2 microns, which means it will likely last a short while, depending on wear and tear, as well as care.
FLASH PLATED
This is usually reserved for plating within the industry, for sample pieces and photoshoots. I wouldn't be surprised however if some fast fashion brands used this method, as it is the lowest price point option. It contains 0.5 microns of gold plating and it will not last very long at all. Again, these pieces can be made from any base metal.
(below photo is solid gold, our sapphire scatter band ring!)
When looking to buy a piece of jewellery, ask yourself the following questions:
- Who am I buying it for?
- What's my budget?
- How long will this piece last?
- Are the materials high quality?
Generally, solid gold is the best option as it is the most durable. Gold is at an all time high price point wise, and so this option may not be best if you're looking to gift a loved one a special piece.
Gold vermeil jewellery however may be the better option! You will know that there is a very thick layer of gold and that the piece is made from high quality, long lasting materials. A lot of brands partner with manufacturers who are RJC certified, which means the pieces are ethically and sustainably made.
If you have any questions, feel free to pop us an email and we're more than happy to help you decide!