The Difference Between Gold Filled and Gold Plated Jewelry
When considering jewelry, gold is often the top choice. However, you may not realize that there are two different ways that gold is used in jewelry – gold filled and gold plated. It’s important to understand the differences between the two before making a purchase. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between gold filled and gold plated jewelry, so that you can make an informed decision when buying jewelry.
What is Gold Filled Jewelry?
Gold filled jewelry is made from a solid layer of gold bonded to another metal, such as brass. This layer of gold is much thicker than gold plated jewelry, and typically contains 5% to 10% pure gold. Gold filled jewelry is also much more durable than gold plated jewelry, as the gold layer is much thicker. Additionally, gold filled jewelry is much less likely to tarnish, as it is not exposed to any chemicals or other elements.
What is Gold Plated Jewelry?
Gold plated jewelry is made from a thin layer of gold that is applied to another metal, such as brass. This layer of gold is much thinner than gold filled jewelry, and typically contains only 1% to 2% pure gold. Gold plated jewelry is not as durable as gold filled jewelry, as the gold layer is much thinner. Additionally, gold plated jewelry is more prone to tarnishing, as it is exposed to chemicals and other elements.
What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Gold Filled and Gold Plated Jewelry?
The main benefit of gold filled jewelry is that it is much more durable than gold plated jewelry. As the layer of gold is much thicker, it is less likely to tarnish or experience wear and tear. Additionally, gold filled jewelry is much less likely to cause skin reactions, as it does not contain any nickel or other allergenic elements. On the other hand, gold plated jewelry is much less expensive than gold filled jewelry, making it a good option for those on a budget.
The main drawback of gold filled jewelry is that it is much more expensive than gold plated jewelry. Additionally, gold filled jewelry can be difficult to repair, as it is much thicker than gold plated jewelry. On the other hand, gold plated jewelry is much more prone to tarnishing and will need to be replaced more often than gold filled jewelry.
How to Care for Gold Filled and Gold Plated Jewelry
Gold filled jewelry should be cared for like any other gold jewelry, as it is made from a thick layer of gold. It should be stored in a cool, dry place and should not be exposed to chemicals or other elements. Additionally, it should be polished regularly to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated.
Gold plated jewelry should be handled with care, as it is made from a thin layer of gold. It should be stored in a cool, dry place and should not be exposed to chemicals or other elements. Additionally, it should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated.
Conclusion
When considering jewelry, it’s important to understand the differences between gold filled and gold plated jewelry. Gold filled jewelry is made from a solid layer of gold that is much thicker than gold plated jewelry, making it much more durable and less likely to tarnish. Gold plated jewelry is much less expensive than gold filled jewelry, but is also much less durable and more prone to tarnish. It’s important to understand the pros and cons of both before making a purchase.
