A Comprehensive Guide:

Gold vermeil is particularly popular among those who love gold decoration but do not wish to spend so much on the gold jewelry. Nevertheless, one general concern that begs for an answer is if the gold vermeil gets tarnished with time.

This article, therefore aims at explaining what gold vermeil is and how long it can last as well as how it can be taken care of. At the end you will be able to know what it takes to keep gold vermeil jewelry in good condition and whether it is worth every penny for you.

Table Of Content:

1. Gold Vermeil
2. Why is Gold Vermeil Considered Much Better Than Gold?
3. Can the Gold Vermeil Worn Off?
4. What Is The Gold Vermeil Lifespan?
5. How To Maintain Gold Vermeil Products The Right Way
6. But is gold vermeil worth it?

1. What is gold vermeil?

Gold vermeil [vay-may] is an form of decorative at its core: gold plated its sterling silver with additional thanks to the double layer of often 24 carats thick gold. This way gold vermeil is a very affordable option to real gold jewelry without compromising on quality.

A Definitive Guide to Gold Vermeil: Unique Features and Regulations-

Core Components: 92.50% sterling silver
Gold Quality: The least is 10 k gold, but 14 k is the ultimate and common with an occasional 18 k gold.
Thickness of Gold plate: The minimum stands at 2.5 microns, which is thicker than the normal gold plated wears.

2. How Different Gold Vermeil Are From Other Types of Gold Jewelry

Different types of gold jewelry exist and those unique ways of making them. In this, is where the gold vermeil is different from the other aviary which are more flushed in the market:

2.1. Gold Filling Jewelry:
Gold filling jewelry product contains many more layers of gold which are applied by a different method unlike the gold Vermeil which is simply drawn over a brass core. Gold filled is more expensive because there are thicker layers of gold used making the jewelry expensive and also thick as opposed to gold filled necklaces.

2.2 Gold Plating:
Gold plating is the process of depositing a layer of gold over a surface that is usually made of brass or copper. This layer of gold coating is usually less than 1 micron hence the coating fails because of mechanical wear and tear like scratching hence the gold plated items are not likely to be as strong as gold vermeil will be and therefore will not be plated or coated with such layers.

2.3 Solid Gold:
Items that are sold as solid gold mean that the entire content of the items is composed of gold and so such type of jewelry is very costly and also the most durable jewelry type. However, gold vermeil still provides a comfort to those aiming for the gold look without spending on solid gold which tends to be overly priced.

3. Does Gold Vermeil Wear Off?

To some extent, the gold coating on vermeil jewelry has the potential to wear off, but this is contingent on a multitude of factors. More specifically, since gold vermeil is a form of gold plated jewelry and thus it consists of a gold layer over some base metal, such gold layer will over time fade and reveal the sterling silver underneath which is the actual base metal.

Factors Which Influence Wearing:

1.Gold Layer Thickness:

The thicker the gold layer, the longer the gold layer will remain intact. Gold vermeil has a thicker gold layer than a gold plated jewellery piece therefore is usually more durable.

2.Frequency and Attention:

The frequency of wearing the jewelry and the manner of caring for it will determine the rate at which it will wear out. Jewelry that is worn frequently is likely to wear out easily especially the rings and bracelets due to the friction involved.

3.Chemicals Applied to It:

There are some cleaning agents, perfumes and even water containing chlorine that can facilitate quicker wearing of the jewelry.

4.Body Chemistry:

The skin of some people may be very reactive with the gold layer causing faster removal of the layer. This is due to the sweat and oils present in the skin.

>Pro Tip: If you wish to preserve your gold vermeil pieces, skip on the wear and tear and try to avoid water light lotion or perfume contact as much as possible.

4. How Long Does Gold Vermeil Last?

The durability of gold vermeil jewelry is mostly determined by the taking care of the piece. Generally, gold vermeil can be expected to last anywhere between 1 to 5 years with the right treatment. Certain pieces that are well taken care of can sometimes last even a longer period.

Suggestions that can help increase the Lifetime of Gold Vermeil.

Wear and Tear with Caution:

When the items are not in use, they should be kept without being moist and in a cool dry place. Keeping away in a box or a pouch can prevent the pieces from scratches and the air which can tarnish them.

Keep It Away From Water:

We also advise you that unless you want to have your gold coating stripped clean off your jewelries, do not wear them when swimming, showering or washing your hands.

Do Not Rub Vigorously:

For example, when taking off your rings, which you might want to thoroughly cleanse afterwards, they would not recommend soaking treatment. Anything strong and abrasive that may scratch the surface should be avoided.

5. Tending Your Gold Vermeil Jewelries

While it is common knowledge that anything as delicate as gold vermeil jewelry requires utmost care for it to retain its shine and beauty, there are a few easy care tips that can help you prolong their life and keep how they look ever new.

5.1 Cleaning Gold Vermeil:

– Soft Cloth: Gently wipe every piece of your jewelry with a soft microfiber cloth after a wear.
– Mild Soap: If necessary, gold vermeil decorations can be washed with soap golden jewelry and water, a solution of gentle soap and water is suggested instead. Surface cleaning should be completed with a soft cloth drying.

5.2 Storing Gold Vermeil:

– It is best to keep your gold vermeil jewelry in a purse or a soft tissue-lined jewelry box.
– Wearing chains together may cause them to tangle and scratch each other, therefore they should not be placed with other wears.

5.3 Preventing Breakage:

– As much as possible, do not wear your jewelry when there is a possible contact with water, sweat, or any liquid.
– Never wear gold vermeil at times when lotions, perfumes, or other health and body products are being used.

If you observe these care suggestions, your gold vermeil jewelry should last for a long time.

6. Is Gold Vermeil a Good Investment?

If fine handcrafted gold jewelry is what you are after but at the same time want to cut costs, gold vermeil is what you can go for. It offers the elegance that comes with pure gold but does not kill anyone’s wallet. In addition, it encases a layer of sterling silver which makes it perfect for reactive skin individuals.

However, if you, on the other hand, want something that you can put on for good without the fear of scratching it, you may as well go for solid golden necklaces or gold-filled ones in case you want extra durable options.

Benefits of Gold Vermeil:

– Gold Vermeil Jewelry is less expensive than wearing real solid gold
– Gold Vermeil is Better Quality and More Durable than standard gold plated jewelry
– It’s safe and there are no worries of skin irritation (because the metal has a silver base).

Disadvantages of Gold Vermeil:

– It is known that in most cases, the regular use will cause the gold coating to come off.
– Gold vermeil jewelry needs regular maintenance to prevent wear and tear.

Conclusion

So, will gold vermeil eventually tarnish? In all probability it will yes but it may take a considerable amount of years before any visible change will be observed, as long as it is properly maintained. The most critical aspect for keeping gold vermeil pieces in good condition is being non-aggressive with cleaning the jewelry, putting it away from unkind elements, and donning without submerging the jewelry in water or chemicals. Gold may be a favorite among many because of its aesthetic qualities but the material also comes at a high price. It is for this reason why gold vermeil is such a big sigh of relief.

These recommendations should be useful as well in keeping the luster and shine of your gold vermeil products that, are equally pretty and bright just a while after purchase.