Gold vs Gold Plated

Solid Gold jewelry is made from an alloy of pure gold combined with other metals to improve strength and durability. The purity of gold is measured in karats (k), with 24k representing nearly 100% pure gold. However, 24k gold is too soft for everyday wear, so 14k (58.3% gold) and 18k (75% gold) are more commonly used, offering a balance between durability and purity.

Gold Plated jewelry features a thin layer of gold electroplated onto a base metal such as brass, copper, or nickel. The gold layer is usually less than 5 microns thick and can wear off over time, exposing the base metal underneath.

Key Features & Benefits of Solid Gold and Gold Plated Jewelry

Feature Solid Gold Jewelry Gold Plated Jewelry
Gold Purity 14k, 18k, or 24k — high gold content Thin gold layer over base metals
Durability Long-lasting, resistant to wear and tarnish Prone to wear, gold layer may fade
Price Higher cost, investment-worthy Budget-friendly, great for trendy looks
Skin Sensitivity Hypoallergenic May cause irritation if plating wears off
Maintenance Easy to maintain and clean Requires gentle care and protection

Tips for Choosing Between Solid Gold and Gold Plated

  • Choose solid gold if you want heirloom-quality, durable jewelry that lasts a lifetime.
  • Opt for gold plated to enjoy the look of gold at a fraction of the price for fashion or seasonal pieces.
  • Check hallmark stamps such as “14k,” “18k” for solid gold, and “GP,” “GEP” for gold plated.

How to Care for Your Gold Jewelry

  • Clean solid gold regularly with mild soap and soft cloths.
  • Avoid exposure to water, perfumes, and chemicals to protect gold plating.
  • Store gold plated jewelry separately to avoid scratches and preserve plating.

FAQ

Q1: How can I tell if my jewelry is solid gold or gold plated?

Look for hallmark stamps. Solid gold has karat marks like “14k” or “18k.” Gold plated pieces often have “GP” or “HGE.”

Q2: Does gold plated jewelry last long?

Gold plating typically lasts 6 months to a few years, depending on usage and care.

Q3: Is gold plated jewelry safe for sensitive skin?

It depends on the base metal; solid gold is safer for sensitive skin.