What is Gold Filled?
Gold Filled is a high-quality alternative to solid gold that offers durability and affordability without compromising on appearance. It’s made by mechanically bonding layers of gold to a base metal core, usually brass, using heat and pressure. The layers of gold are 100 times thicker than gold plated or gold vermeil. There are two common types: single clad, where the gold is layered on one side, and double clad, which has thinner layers of gold on both sides. This process creates a strong, long-lasting material that’s ideal for jewellery. By law, Gold Filled must contain at least 5% gold by total weight. The industry abbreviation you’ll often see stamped on pieces is 14/20 GF
Gold Vermeil is a thicker layer of real gold over sterling silver. It wears off eventually and the silver will start to show through. This is why the gold seems to "fade". Gold Vermeil is hypoallergenic because the sterling silver base metal is hypoallergenic.
Gold Plated is a thin layer of real gold over a cheap metal. It wears off quickly and will leave your skin green and cause allergies if you are sensitive.