Gold jewellery comes in very different forms, and the labels can be confusing. Two necklaces can look almost identical in a photo but be made in completely different ways – and cost hundreds of pounds apart. Here's a plain-English guide.
What is solid gold?
Solid gold jewellery is made from a gold alloy all the way through. Pure gold (24 carat) is too soft for everyday jewellery, so it's mixed with other metals. Common types are 9K, 14K and 18K – the higher the number, the more gold it contains.
Pros: it won't wear through to another metal, and it holds its value.
Cons: it's expensive, and even solid gold scratches and can bend with daily wear.
What is gold plated jewellery?
Gold plated jewellery has a thin layer of gold bonded to the surface of another metal, called the base metal. When a piece is described as 18K gold plated, it means the coating has the colour and purity of 18K gold.
The base metal makes a big difference. Plating over brass or copper can wear through and leave a green mark on skin. Plating over stainless steel is far more durable: the steel underneath doesn't tarnish or rust, so the piece stays wearable even as the plating ages.
Pros: affordable, so you can build a collection and follow trends.
Cons: the plating gradually wears with friction over time, especially on rings and bracelets.
What about gold filled and gold vermeil?
- Gold vermeil is a thicker layer of gold over sterling silver. It's more expensive than standard plating, but sterling silver underneath can still tarnish.
- Gold filled has a much thicker layer of gold bonded to a base metal, usually brass. It's more durable than plating and priced between plated and solid gold.
Quick comparison
- Price: gold plated < gold vermeil / gold filled < solid gold
- Everyday durability: depends heavily on the base metal – stainless steel is one of the toughest
- Water: solid gold and gold plated stainless steel can both be worn in water; plated brass and vermeil are better kept dry
- Best for: solid gold for heirloom pieces; gold plated stainless steel for affordable everyday and trend pieces
How to make gold plated jewellery last longer
- Avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach and chlorine cleaners.
- Wipe pieces with a soft cloth to keep the shine.
- Store them separately so they don't scratch each other.
- Expect rings and bracelets to show wear sooner than earrings and necklaces, as they rub against more surfaces.
Why we use gold plated stainless steel
At C'Bella, every piece is made from stainless steel with 18K gold plating or a polished silver tone. It means our jewellery is waterproof, hypoallergenic and tarnish-resistant at an everyday price – and it's covered by our 1-Year Colour Warranty.
Read more: Can you shower in gold plated jewellery? · Stainless steel vs sterling silver · Shop all jewellery