Gold Filled Vs Gold Plated Jewellery

Thinking about adding a new item of gold jewellery to your collection maybe a gold necklace? Here at designB, we have some fabulous gold jewellery in stock. However, which is best to buy when wanting to add some gold to your collection?

Are you struggling to decide on gold filled or gold plated? Well, let us take a deep dive into the pros and cons of each.

Is gold plated jewellery the same as gold filled jewellery?

No. Not only are the production methods different, but the quantity of gold alloy utilised in gold-filled vs gold-plated items is also different. Let's take a look at what each one is.

What is gold plated jewellery?

Gold plated jewellery has a thin coating of gold on top of a base metal (less than 0.05 percent real gold) (usually brass or copper). To make gold plated jewellery, a thin coating of gold is plated onto the base metal.

gold plated rings for men

Because the gold plating is very thin, it may easily rub off. When exposed to liquids or chemicals, it is also more prone to tarnishing. Copper and brass, particularly when exposed to fluids, will corrode even though gold does not rust (in air, sweat, lotion, perfume, etc). Because it utilises such a small quantity of gold, gold plated jewellery is considerably less expensive than other kinds of gold jewellery. Gold plated jewellery is a beautiful choice for special occasions or trying out new trends.

What is gold filled jewellery?

A gold-filled piece of jewellery is a less expensive but still attractive alternative to solid gold jewellery. Gold-filled jewellery is made by pressing an actual coating of gold against another metal. Although gold filled jewellery is not marketed as pure gold, it has the same desired qualities and appearance.

It will not tarnish, rub off, or change colour. Gold-filled may be worn by those who are allergic to particular metals without fear of an adverse response. Although the thickness of the gold coating in gold filled items varies by maker, it is always thicker than conventional gold plating (the next category of gold jewellery). Gold-filled accessories may be worn on a daily basis without fading or rubbing off for up to 30 years in many instances.

Do they both tarnish?

Gold-filled, sterling silver, and 9k, 14k, and 18k solid gold are all alloys. As a result, it can only tarnish if all of the aforementioned conditions are present. However, these premium materials (gold filled, solid gold) may withstand tarnish better than lower-quality alloys. Compared to lesser grade alloys such as gold plated, it will endure for considerably longer if properly cared for. Any jewellery plated will tarnish over time due to the fragile layer slight wear and tear will be prominent.

How does gold plated durability compare to gold filled jewellery?

Due to the thicker coating of a gold alloy, gold-filled items are usually more durable than gold-plated pieces, as stated in the first section. The wear, environment, and quality of the item all affect the jewellery's lifespan.

What are the best uses of gold filled and gold plated jewellery?

After all of this, you're undoubtedly asking why gold-plated jewellery exists in the first place. We'll show you how to wear gold-filled or gold-plated jewellery in a variety of situations.

Wherever endurance and durability are required, gold-filled jewellery is the finest choice. Gifts for anniversaries, birthdays and other special occasions take on a whole new meaning when they're made to last a lifetime. Another example is when an item is worn regularly; if worn every day, a gold-plated piece would last just a few months.

Gold Plated Jewellery


For trends, gold-plated jewellery is ideal. In this manner, you may follow the movement without worrying about whether your purchase of a more costly item was worthwhile. Costume and cosplay jewellery is another excellent use for gold-plated jewellery. Because these items are only worn once or twice, the appearance is more essential than the durability. Take our word for it we have a stunning collection of gold rings.