What is Gold Vermeil: All You Need to Know

Written by: Heidi Thompson

June 2, 2024

Time to read 8 min

Table of Contents

Gold Vermeil Explained: Everything You Need to Know The Origins of the Term 'Vermeil' Composition: Sterling Silver Base and Thick Layer of Gold Electroplating: The Gold Vermeil Manufacturing Process Is Gold Vermeil Jewellery Good Quality? How Long Will Gold Vermeil Last? Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Gold Vermeil Jewellery Cleaning Methods and Storage Advice Can You Wear Gold Vermeil in the Shower or when Swimming? Effects of Showering on Gold Vermeil Jewellery Water Resistance of Gold Vermeil How to Identify Genuine Gold Vermeil Conclusions: Gold Vermeil Superior Aesthetics, Durability and Affordability FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Gold Vermeil Jewellery Related Readings

Gold Vermeil Explained: Everything You Need to Know

Gold vermeil (pronounced "ver-may") refers to high-quality gold jewellery made with a base of sterling silver that is coated with a typically 2.5 micron thick layer of gold. Combining a durable sterling silver base with a thick yellow gold coating leverages the superior hardness of sterling silver while creating a luxurious and durable finish that closely resembles solid gold at a much more affordable price point.

The Origins of the Term 'Vermeil'

The word "vermeil" originates from the Low Latin term "vermis". The term was later introduced to the French language and used to refer to "gilded silver." Historically, the term refers to a specific type of gilding technique used to craft gold-plated silverware and jewellery. In modern jewellery the term “Vermeil” is typically used to differentiate jewellery from “gold plated” jewellery, which typically has a thinner gold layer than the more superior gold vermeil jewellery (Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated Jewellery).

Composition: Sterling Silver Base and Thick Layer of Gold

The composition of gold vermeil jewellery is key to its quality and appeal. It is made from a sterling silver base that provides strength and durability. Via an electrochemical process called ‘electroplating’ a thick layer of gold, usually at least 2.5 microns thick is applied to the sterling silver base metal.

At CARAT* LONDON we typically use 18K gold vermeil. 18k gold vermeil is 75% pure gold and 15% alloy and provides a rich and vibrant yellow gold appearance. This combination of sterling silver and 18K gold vermeil results in jewellery that is both beautiful and long-lasting.

Understanding the differences between various gold jewellery types is really useful in picking jewellery that looks great and lasts long:

Vermeil Gold: Jewellery with a sterling silver base and a 2.5 micron thick gold layer. Make sure to shop 18K Gold Vermeil to get that rich, vibrant yellow gold look.

Gold-Plated: Indicates a thinner (around 0.5 micron thick) layer of gold typically over a lower quality base metal such as brass or copper.

Gold Filled: A base material (typically copper or brass) coated with a thick layer of gold (around 5% of the total volume).
Solid Gold: Premium jewellery made entirely from yellow gold. Suitable for investment pieces.

Electroplating: The Gold Vermeil Manufacturing Process

Gold vermeil jewellery is made by coating a base of sterling silver with a layer of gold via an electrochemical process called ‘electroplating’.

The process begins with crafting a piece of jewellery from sterling silver. This base piece is then submerged in a solution containing gold ions and subjected to an electrical current. The electrical current transforms the dissolved gold metal ions into a solid, thin metal layer. Electroplating thus binds a thin layer of gold to the sterling silver base, resulting in a fusion that combines the best of both metals.

The utilisation of this process further ensures a uniform and durable gold layer, distinguishing it from the often less consistent gold plated jewellery.

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Yellow Gold Jewellery Composition Explained

With its sterling silver base topped with a thick layer of high-quality gold, gold vermeil jewellery is often indistinguishable from full gold pieces, placing it leagues above gold plated alternatives in the realm of demi-fine jewellery.

Gold plating involves applying a typically much thinner layer of gold over a base metal, which can wear off quickly, or gets scratched easily when worn regularly. Gold vermeil jewellery is made by coating a base of sterling silver with a layer of gold via an electrochemical process called ‘electroplating’.

The utilisation of this process further ensures a uniform and durable gold layer, distinguishing it from the often less consistent gold plated jewellery. With its sterling silver base topped with a thick layer of high-quality gold, gold vermeil jewellery is often indistinguishable from full gold pieces, placing it leagues above gold plated alternatives in the realm of demi-fine jewellery.

Gold plating involves applying a typically much thinner layer of gold over a base metal, which can wear off quickly, or gets scratched easily when worn regularly.

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Is Gold Vermeil Jewellery Good Quality?

Gold vermeil jewellery is generally considered high quality fashion jewellery ideal for everyday wear. The quality of gold jewellery is influenced by three factors:

The thickness of the gold layer
The purity of the gold
The quality of the base metal

Gold vermeil offers excellent properties for all three factors: A thick layer of high purity gold provides a richer and vibrant yellow gold appearance that is virtually indistinguishable from solid gold jewellery.

This makes gold vermeil an attractive option for those who desire the look of solid gold without the associated cost. The use of sterling silver as the base metal adds to the jewellery's strength and longevity.

This durability is one the main advantages of gold vermeil as opposed to other gold types.

How Long Will Gold Vermeil Last?

Even if worn regularly, gold vermeil jewellery can last anywhere from several years to a decade or more. Jewellery pieces that are more likely to come into contact with other items or hard surfaces, such as gold bracelets, gold rings are more likely to wear faster than gold necklaces, gold pendant necklaces, gold hoop earrings or gold earrings .

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Gold Vermeil Jewellery

To maintain the appearance and longevity of gold vermeil jewellery, it is essential to follow some best practices. Avoid exposing the jewellery to harsh chemicals, such as those found in cleaning products and makeup removers. Remember to remove your jewellery before you start your Sunday morning cleanup routine. Also, do not forget to take off your rings before hitting the gym. Even the most bend resistant sterling silver base will bend when you beat your personal deadlift record.

Cleaning Methods and Storage Advice

Clean your gold vermeil jewellery regularly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt and oils. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap solution and gently scrub with a soft brush. Store your jewellery in a dry, cool place, preferably in a jewellery box or pouch to prevent scratches and tarnishing. When shopping at CARAT* LONDON we ship our items in premium boxes that are great for storing your jewellery.

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Can You Wear Gold Vermeil in the Shower or when Swimming?

Effects of Showering on Gold Vermeil Jewellery

Gold vermeil jewellery, while durable and beautiful, is not entirely immune to the effects of water exposure. The thick layer of gold over sterling silver provides some resistance to tarnishing, but prolonged exposure to water, especially chlorine of public swimming pools or sea saltwater, can cause the gold layer to wear off more quickly. So best to remove all your beloved jewellery before going for a swim.

Water Resistance of Gold Vermeil

Exposing gold vermeil to water frequently can also accelerate the fading and tarnishing process. Soaps, shampoos, and other bathing products can leave residues on the jewellery, dulling its shine and potentially causing discolouration. So our advice here is to also play it safe and to take off all gold vermeil jewellery before hopping in the shower.

How to Identify Genuine Gold Vermeil

To make things easy for you, we clearly list out all materials used to craft our beautiful pieces of jewellery. On product pages we clearly indicated the base material used, as well as what metal was used for coating. To shop gold vermeil jewellery look for “Gold Vermeil” pieces with a “Sterling Silver” base.

Conclusions: Gold Vermeil Superior Aesthetics, Durability and Affordability

Gold vermeil stands out for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and affordability compared to solid gold and gold-plated options. It offers an excellent balance of quality and affordability, making it a fantastic choice for everyday wear.

If you are considering adding gold vermeil to your collection take a look at our yellow gold jewellery guide to learn what colours go with gold jewellery.

The Author: Heidi Thompson

Heidi Thompson is the Co-Founder and Creative Director of CARAT* LONDON. In partnership with her husband and Co-Founder Scott Thompson, she oversees the brand's fashion jewellery collections. Offering everything from polished stud earrings for everyday wear to lab-grown diamond pieces sold under the GENTLE DIAMONDS franchise, CARAT* has become a leader in the jewellery industry.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Gold Vermeil Jewellery

What is gold vermeil?

Gold vermeil is high-quality jewellery with a sterling silver base coated with a thick layer of gold, typically at least 2.5 microns thick.

How is gold vermeil different from gold-plated jewellery?

Gold vermeil uses a sterling silver base with a thicker gold layer compared to gold-plated jewellery, which has a thinner gold layer over base metals like brass or copper.

Is gold vermeil real gold?

Yes, the gold layer on gold vermeil is real, usually ranging from 14k to 24k. At CARAT* we mostly use 18k gold to achieve a rich, yellow gold look.

How long does gold vermeil jewellery last?

With proper care, gold vermeil jewellery can last several years, maintaining its appearance and quality.

Can I wear gold vermeil jewellery every day?

Yes, but remove it before taking a shower, going to the gym, or engaging in activities such cleaning your house to recuce exposure to harsh chemical and to maintain its longevity.

How should I care for my gold vermeil jewellery?

Clean with a soft, damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Store in a dry, cool place.

Is gold vermeil better than gold-plated jewellery?

Yes, gold vermeil is more durable and long-lasting due to its sterling siler base and the thicker gold layer.

How much does gold vermeil jewellery cost?

Gold vermeil is more affordable than solid gold but slightly more expensive than gold-plated jewellery. At CARAT* you can buy genuine Gold Vermeil pieces for under £200.