Gold-Filled vs. Gold-Plated - What's the Difference?

Hey friends! Today I've put together a simple guide to everything you need to know about gold-filled versus gold-plated jewellery. You know I like to keep you in the know, and since this is a question I get a lot from my customers, I thought I'd put together a little cheat sheet on what's what:


1.) What is it?

Gold fill is a solid layer of gold, bonded with heat and pressure, to another metal - typically brass. 

Gold plating (sometimes referred to as "gold dipped") involves a microscopic layer of gold being applied to base metal, usually through the process of electroplating.

2.) The amount of gold used

Gold fill must be at least 1/20 or 5% gold by weight, in accordance with government stands; the gold layer on gold-plated jewellery can vary broadly depending on the manufacturer and is not regulated.

3.)  Longevity

Gold-filled can be worn daily (some say, for 5-30 years) without wearing off, tarnishing or discoloring. Gold-plated jewellery varies in it's longevity, can scratch, wear off, and as a result, will last a much shorter period of time.

4.) Cleaning

Gold-filled jewellery can be polished and cleaned with jewellery cleaner (though I advise against using most cleaners - find out why in our Top Ten Jewellery Care Tips!). 

Gold plating can easily wear off if it's cleaned - at most, rub very gently with a soft cloth, and watch carefully in case you wipe off the plating.

5.)  Allergies & Skin Sensitivities

Gold-filled jewellery is in most cases fine for people with allergies to gold plating and base metals: as long as you can wear the type of gold that is used in gold fill (usually 14-karat), you shouldn't experience a reaction. Unfortunately gold plating can often cause a reaction in those with sensitive skin. 


Alright folks, there you have it. I'm proud to state that 99% of our own gold products are made using gold-fill, and the remaining minority use gold vermeil, which is a thicker type of gold-plating on top of a sterling silver core - not base metal).

Do you look for jewellery that is made from specific metals, or are you easy going on the matter? I'd love to hear what considerations come into play for you when you're shopping - you can leave a comment below to share your input!