Gold, Gold-Filled or Gold-Plate
Is there a difference between Gold Filled and Gold Plated Jewelry?
First off, about solid gold. Its purity is measured in karats “K”, pure gold being 24K. A rich yellow color. But what exactly is a Karat?
Picture a cup. A full cup is 24 parts (24K) – the gold is a rich, beautiful yellow color, but too soft for everyday wear. To strengthen for wear, an alloy such as silver or copper is added. 22K would mean 2 parts base metal added to 22 parts gold; 18K - 6 parts base metal, 18 parts gold; 14K - 10 parts base metal, 14 parts gold; 10K – 14 parts base metal, 10 parts gold; 8K - 16 parts base metal, 8 parts gold. The base metal will also change the color - nickel and zinc are added for white gold, copper for rose, and so on. The lower the Karat, typically means a lower cost due to a diminishing gold content.
So what about Gold-filled?
Gold-filled jewelry means 2-3 layers of gold (10k, 14k, 18k or 24k) are bonded or pressed with a base metal, such as copper, brass, silver. Gold-filled jewelry is more durable than gold-plated and with proper care can last a lifetime. At a fraction of the cost of solid gold, gold-filled is a practical alternative for durability and beauty.
And Gold-plated?
Gold-plated jewelry is a thin layer of gold electroplated to a base metal such as copper, brass, silver, or nickel. As a result, gold-plated jewelry can be scratched easily and tarnishes quickly. The least costly alternative, but highly practical for fun and festive wear.
Best advice: care for your jewelry. Remove when washing hands, showering, swimming or using corrosive chemicals. Do not sleep with jewelry on. Keep jewelry away from extreme temperature changes. Store individually to avoid scratching. Clean only as recommended for your piece of jewelry.
Wear your jewelry with delight and be blessed!
“For in the true nature of things, if we rightly consider, every green tree is far more glorious than if it were made of gold and silver.” Martin Luther
“All the gold which is under or upon the earth is not enough to give in exchange for virtue.” Plato
“How much better to get wisdom than gold!” Proverbs 16:16