If you’ve ever shopped for gold jewelry and thought, “Wait… What does Gold Fill mean?” — you’re not alone.

This is one of the most common questions I get.

So welcome to Ask the Jeweler. I’m Nina - i.e. the jeweler. Let’s break this down clearly. No gatekeeping, no fluff.

Understanding the difference between gold plated, gold vermeil, gold filled, and solid gold changes how you shop, how you care for your jewelry, and what you expect from it.

Because “gold” doesn’t always mean what you think it means!

What Does “Gold” Actually Mean?

When jewelry is labeled “gold,” it usually falls into one of four categories:

• Gold Plated

• Gold Vermeil

• Gold Filled

• Solid Gold

The real difference comes down to:

• How much gold is actually there

• What metal is underneath

• How long it will last

• And how it fits into your real life

Let’s go one by one.

Gold Plated Jewelry

Now let’s talk about gold plated — because not all plating is created equal.

Industry standard:
Most gold plated jewelry is a very thin layer of gold over a base metal like brass. The thickness is often just enough to legally call it “gold plated.” That’s why so many people have had pieces fade quickly.

Here’s how mine is different.

My jewelry is 14k yellow gold plated over brass, and the plating is 10x thicker than the industry standard.

Ten times. We're proud of that. 

That means:

• Longer wear life

• Slower fading

• Better resistance to everyday friction

• A rich, warm 14k tone

Every piece is also nickel-free and hypoallergenic.

I choose brass intentionally for structure and weight, but what you see, and feel is high-quality 14k gold done properly.

Gold plated does not have to mean disposable. When it’s done right (thick plating, quality base metal, intentional design) it becomes accessible luxury that performs.

Best for: Bold, everyday pieces that make a statement and are built to last far longer than typical plated jewelry.

Gold Vermeil

(Pronounced ver-may. Yes, it’s French. Yes, we’re fancy.)

What it is:
A thick layer of gold (at least 2.5 microns) over sterling silver.

Unlike standard plating, vermeil has legal requirements. It must use sterling silver underneath and meet minimum thickness standards.

Why that matters:

• It’s generally more durable than standard plating

• It’s hypoallergenic due to the silver base

• It has a more substantial feel

Vermeil is often positioned as the “upgrade” from plated jewelry and in some cases, it can be.

Best for: Elevated everyday pieces you want to wear often and take care of.

Gold Filled

This is the category people don’t talk about enough.

What it is:
A thick layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal (usually brass). Gold filled pieces contain significantly more actual gold than plated jewelry.

Not dipped. Bonded.

What that means:

• It lasts much longer than standard plating

• It handles daily wear well

• It resists quick tarnishing

If you want something you rarely take off but aren’t ready for solid gold, gold filled is a strong option.

Best for: High-rotation pieces that need durability. Like our permanent bracelets - here!

Solid Gold

The real deal.

What it is:
Gold all the way through. No base metal underneath.

Solid gold comes in different karats:

• 10K – More durable, lower gold content

• 14K – Balanced strength and color

• 18K – Higher gold content, deeper tone, softer metal

Why it’s iconic:

• It won’t tarnish

• It won’t wear off

• It can last generations

• It holds intrinsic value

Solid gold is heirloom energy. It’s legacy jewelry.

---

Quick Comparison: Gold Plated vs Gold Vermeil vs Gold Filled vs Solid Gold

There is no “better.” There’s only what aligns with how you live.

Why I Care About Explaining This

I don’t believe in vague labels or confusing descriptions. And, I chose 14k yellow gold plated over brass with 10x industry-standard thickness very intentionally.

My pieces feel luxurious, stay bold, and remain accessible.

If you’re investing your money — even if it’s $60 — you deserve to know exactly what you’re buying.

Understanding gold types means:

• You shop intentionally

• You set realistic expectations

• You take care of your jewelry properly

• You’re never disappointed by surprise fading

 

Ask a Jeweler!

I'm Nina Berenato - Owner and Founder of Nina Berenato Jewelry. I've been in the jewelry and fashion business for over 15 years. If you have a question about your jewelry, my team and I would be happy to help. Ask away on our socials @ninaberenato or email us at hello@ninaberenato.com

You can shop my handmade jewelry here or stop by to get a permanent bracelet at one of my Texas stores. 

 

For more on Gold Filled vs Gold Plated: