Why Gold-Filled Jewelry is a Better Investment than Gold-Plated
Our jewelry choices reflect our unique personalities and preferences, and nothing spells elegance and luxury like a piece of gold jewelry. But as we shift towards a more sustainable and ethical approach to fashion, we must reconsider the materials we use to accessorize. When shopping for gold jewelry, it is essential to know the difference between gold-plated and gold-filled and why the latter is the better option. In this article, we will explore the benefits of investing in gold-filled jewelry and why you should opt for this type of jewelry over gold-plated.
Gold-Plated Jewelry:
Gold-plated jewelry is made by depositing a thin layer of gold onto a base metal using electroplating. This layer of gold is usually less than 0.5 microns thick, and the base metal could be copper, silver, or brass. Gold-plated jewelry is cheaper than solid gold, but it is not durable and will eventually wear off or tarnish. It is also not recommended for people with sensitive skin as the base metal could cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Solid Gold Jewelry:
Solid gold jewelry is made entirely of gold and is measured in karats, which indicate the amount of pure gold in the metal. The most common ones are 14k, 18k, and 24k gold. The higher the karat, the more pure gold it contains, and the more expensive it is. Solid gold jewelry is the most durable and can last for generations. However, it is also the most expensive and not very accessible for most people.
Gold-Fill Jewelry:
Gold-fill jewelry is a type of metal jewelry that uses a thick layer of gold bonded to a base metal core. It is made by mechanically bonding a layer of gold onto a base metal core using heat and pressure. Unlike gold-plated, gold-fill jewelry has a thicker layer of gold (over 5% of its weight), making it more durable and resistant to tarnishing. It is also more affordable than solid gold and suitable for people with sensitive skin as the gold layer does not wear off or cause skin reactions. Gold-fill jewelry is a smart and sustainable alternative to solid gold as it offers the same look and durability at a fraction of the cost.
We love gold-fill jewelry at Devi Arts Collective. Some of our favourite gold-filled pieces are our starburst studs, gold heart necklace and xo earrings.
Great Things about Gold-Fill Jewelry
Not only is gold-fill jewelry more sustainable and durable than gold-plated, but it also offers several other benefits.
Versatility: Gold-fill jewelry comes in various colors, including rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold, making it easy to match any outfit or occasion.
Hypoallergenic: Gold-filled jewelry is perfect for people with sensitive skin since they do not contain nickel, which is a common allergen found on most metals.
Easy maintenance: Gold-fill jewelry requires minimal maintenance and can last a lifetime if cared for properly.
Investment: Gold-filled jewelry is an excellent investment since it retains its value over time and can be resold for a high price.
Gold jewelry is timeless and elegant, but it is crucial to be informed about the materials we choose and their impact on the environment, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Investing in gold-filled jewelry ensures that we get a piece of high-quality gold jewelry that lasts a lifetime and retains its value. It is also a sustainable and ethical choice that aligns with our values and reduces our carbon footprint. So now that you know the difference between gold-plated, gold-filled, and solid gold, it is time to make the right choice and invest in gold-filled jewelry.
