What is Gold Filled Jewelry? Does It Matter?

Gold filled jewelry is the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to any outfit. It is a great alternative to solid gold, as it is more affordable and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Gold filled jewelry is perfect for everyday wear and is a great way to add a bit of sparkle to any outfit.

Related: Rose Gold Vs Yellow Gold: What’s The Difference?

What Exactly Does Gold Filled Mean?

Gold filled jewelry is jewelry made with a thin layer of 14-karat gold permanently bonded to a base metal such as brass. This type of jewelry is a great alternative to solid gold jewelry since it has the same look and feel as solid gold jewelry, but at a fraction of the cost. Gold filled jewelry is extremely durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.

Gold filled jewelry is usually marked with the karatage of the gold and the percentage of gold used in the item. For example, the term “14/20 gold filled” means the item is 14-karat gold with 20% gold content. This is important to know when purchasing gold filled jewelry because it indicates the quality of the product.

Gold filled jewelry is available in a variety of styles and designs. It can be found in necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. The pieces are often adorned with gemstones or other accent pieces to enhance their beauty. Gold filled jewelry is also a great choice for engagement and wedding rings since it can be crafted into any design and is extremely durable.

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Gold Filled Jewelry vs. Gold Plated Jewelry

One of the main advantages of gold filled jewelry over gold plated jewelry is that it is more durable. 

Gold plated jewelry can last anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the quality of the plating and how often it is worn. High quality gold plating can last up to two years with proper care, while lower quality plating may only last a few months. 

It is important to note that gold plating is a very thin layer of gold, and so it can be easily scratched or worn away over time, exposing the underlying metal. To extend the life of gold plated jewelry, it is best to avoid wearing it in water or applying lotions or perfumes directly to it. 

It is also important to store your gold plated jewelry in a dry place away from sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration. Gold filled jewelry, on the other hand, is much more resistant to wear and tear and will last much longer.

Related: Can You Wear Gold And Silver Jewelry Together?

Another advantage of gold filled jewelry is that it is more affordable than solid gold jewelry. While the cost of gold is constantly fluctuating, gold filled jewelry remains relatively affordable. This makes it a great choice for people who want to enjoy the look of gold jewelry without spending too much money.

 

 

Sensitive Skin and Allergies

Gold filled jewelry is a great choice for people who have sensitive skin. The base metal used in gold plated jewelry can cause an allergic reaction in some people. 

It is important to pay attention to the materials used in the jewelry to understand if they may cause an allergic reaction. Common metals used as a base metal for gold plating include nickel and brass. People who are allergic to these metals may experience an allergic reaction when wearing gold-plated jewelry.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction to gold plated jewelry can include skin irritation, redness, swelling, itching, and hives. It is important to remove the jewelry if any of these symptoms occur. If the symptoms persist, it is best to consult with a doctor.

To avoid an allergic reaction, it is best to look for gold-plated jewelry that does not contain nickel or brass. There are many alternatives to gold plating that do not contain these metals, such as gold filled jewelry. 

Gold filled jewelry is a great option for those looking for jewelry that won't cause an allergic reaction. This material is composed of a solid layer of gold which is mechanically bonded to another metal. 

The gold layer must be at least 5% of the item's total weight and is much thicker than gold plating. Gold filled jewelry is much more durable than gold plating, and won’t rub off, tarnish, or wear off over time. 

As a result, gold filled jewelry is an excellent choice for those with allergies or sensitivities to metals. The gold filling is usually 14 or 18 karat real gold so that it won’t cause an allergic reaction. 

The Difference in Cost

Gold filled jewelry and gold plated jewelry have a big difference in cost. Gold filled jewelry is much more expensive than gold plated jewelry, because the gold layer is much thicker and more durable. 

Gold plated jewelry is created by using an electroplating process in which a thin layer of gold is applied to the surface of a base metal. This process is much cheaper than gold filled jewelry and is not as durable. 

The gold plating can wear off over time, particularly when exposed to moisture or harsh chemicals. Gold filled jewelry is much more expensive than gold plated jewelry, but it is also more durable and will last much longer.

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Final Thoughts

Gold filled jewelry is a great way to add a luxurious, personal touch to any outfit. It is a cost-effective alternative to solid gold that still looks and wears just like solid gold. 

Gold filled jewelry is also hypoallergenic and won't tarnish over time like silver or brass. With its beautiful and timeless look, gold filled jewelry is a great choice for any occasion.