METALS 101: A GUIDE TO JEWELLERY METALS

Confused between these various types of gold jewellery? You're not alone! This is a common point of confusion among our clients, so we're here to shed a little light on the subject.

All of our jewellery is made using solid materials, whether it's sterling silver or 14k gold. We choose to use solid fine metals to provide truly heirloom quality pieces that can withstand the test of time and daily wear. Gold plated and gold filled jewellery is considered costume jewellery - while less expensive, these pieces will not last as long. Let's really dig into the differences -

Gold Plate / Vermeil

Gold plated jewellery is made of a base metal that has been electroplated with a very thin (we're talking microns) layer of gold. Vermeil refers specifically to a 2.5-micron thick layer of gold plated over a silver base.

Wearability: It's possible for the base metal to tarnish through the thin layer of gold. As you wear gold plated rings or bracelets, the jewellery will strike against hard surfaces, quickly wearing away the layer of gold to reveal the base metal or silver. 

Best for: Earrings and necklaces, where pieces won't often strike against hard surfaces. Those with nickel allergies should not wear gold plated jewellery.

Gold Filled

Gold-filled jewellery is a thick tube or form of jewellery that is then filled with a base metal like brass. Because the layer of gold is thicker than plating, gold filled jewellery lasts longer.

Wearability: The thicker layer of gold means less tarnishing and more longevity. Rings and bracelets may still wear through the gold layer when worn often. Wearing gold filled jewellery in the shower or pool can expedite tarnishing or decay.

Best for: Casual, costume jewellery, worn occasionally. Although better than gold plate, the base metal core is still more fragile than solid gold, and difficult to repair.

Solid Gold

Solid gold jewellery is the gold standard (pun intended). With no layering or base metal core, true fine jewellery is made of solid fine materials. This jewellery can last generations.

Wearability: With no core material, your jewellery will always be a bright finish of the pure metal you selected. 14k gold and platinum are durable enough for everyday wear and require minimal maintenance.

Best for: Everything. Pieces made in solid gold can be worn every day, in the shower, to your heart's content! Tarnish will be minimal if existent.

All Tayroni jewellery pieces are made of sterling silver and 14k solid gold to ensure the utmost quality you can wear your jewellery every day all the time and everywhere.