Frequently Asked Questions

What is 14K Gold Filled Metal?

Gold filled is an actual layer of gold-pressure bonded to another metal.  Gold filled is not to be confused with gold plating as filled literally has 100% more gold than gold plating.  Gold filled is much more valuable and tarnish resistant.  It does not flake off, rub off or turn colors. Gold filled items are also regulated by the government.  These items are therefore much better then gold plated which has no regulations at all.  Gold filled jewelry is made from solid gold and filled with other alloys such as rhodium (a member of the platinum family), brass, and sterling silver.  Gold filled wears, looks and lasts like solid gold because its outer surface IS solid gold.  Everything you can see and touch is pure gold.  In the jewelry industry the quantity of gold must be at least 1/20th by weight of the total product.

What is Vermeil?

Vermeil is sterling silver base metal with a gold overlay.