vermeil jewelry

The Guide to Gold Vermeil Jewelry

Gold jewelry has always been popular, but real gold is becoming more expensive every day. Fortunately, there are many alternatives out there that allow you to still wear striking, high quality, gorgeous gold pieces without the steep price tag. For example, gold vermeil (pronounced vehr-may) is always an excellent way to go.

Vermeil jewelry is a popular option because it creates the perfect balance between quality and value. But, what is vermeil? Read on for our complete guide to gold vermeil jewelry.

In this article, we’ll cover:

What is Gold Vermeil Jewelry?

Gold vermeil is a technique used to create Demi-Fine jewelry. To truly understand the gold vermeil meaning, you should know that it’s quite specific in the U.S. There’s actually a legal definition and requirements to be labeled vermeil. These standards state it must have a sterling silver base layer with solid gold electroplated on top. There are other specific guidelines that must adhere to be considered gold vermeil

So, what does gold vermeil mean? Here are all the requirements:

  • Sterling silver must be the base metal for any vermeil jewelry. To be considered sterling silver, a metal must be an alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metal.
  • The layer of gold plating must contain at least 10k gold (although it can also be 14k to 24k). 10k gold must be at least 41.7% gold. Our gold vermeil uses 14k (which is 58.3% gold content) to ensure a lustrous, striking hue.
  • Gold plating layers must be a minimum of 2.5 microns thick. One micron is equal to 1/1000th of a millimeter. Bryan Anthonys uses 100 layers (100 mls) to guarantee the most durable, beautiful finish possible.

Is Gold Vermeil Jewelry Made with Real Gold?

Yes, gold vermeil is made with real gold. As stated, it must contain at least 10k. While the gold used technically can be 24k, that’s rarely used in gold vermeil.

How is Gold Vermeil Jewelry Different from Other Gold Jewelry?

When asking is vermeil real gold, the answer really is yes. The most basic difference is it has a different thickness than other gold jewelry. The gold layer is created from gold leaf or powder, not a gold sheet.

Gold Vermeil vs Gold Plated

Gold plated jewelry uses a lower quality base metal than gold vermeil. The standard for the gold layer on gold vermeil is higher-quality than that of gold plating.

Gold Vermeil vs Gold Filled

Gold filled jewelry also uses a lower quality base metal. Gold filled is not filled with gold, but has a gold plated layer.

Gold Vermeil vs Solid Gold

Solid gold is completely gold, whereas gold vermeil is solid gold electroplated over sterling silver.

What Type of Jewelry You Can Find in Gold Vermeil

You can find just about any jewelry in gold vermeil, including:

  • Gold vermeil earrings
  • Gold vermeil bracelets
  • Gold vermeil rings
  • Gold vermeil necklaces

Gold vermeil is a Demi Fine jewelry that’s an affordable and beautiful gift option. Shop our unique demi-fine necklaces for a perfect surprise for that someone special in your life.

How Long Does Vermeil Jewelry Last

Aside from solid gold, gold vermeil is the next most durable and longest-lasting type of gold jewelry. The better you care for your jewelry, the longer it will last. With the right care and attention, your jewelry will last years to come.

How to Care for Gold Vermeil Jewelry

Vermeil jewelry is easy to care for. With just a few easy steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your vermeil jewelry for decades. Store your gold vermeil jewelry preferably in its own jewelry pouch, not with other pieces of jewelry. You also want to keep your vermeil dry - remove it before working out, showering, or swimming.

How to Clean Gold Vermeil Jewelry

Cleaning gold vermeil is simple. With a soft, dry, clean polishing cloth, rub the piece in one direction to wipe away dirt. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners on your pieces.

Shop Necklaces at Bryan Anthonys

When looking for the perfect gold vermeil piece, check out all our collections of Demi Fine Jewelry for women. Whether you're shopping for yourself, or for a gift for someone else, Bryan Anthonys has hundreds of options and styles to choose from. Shop today at Bryan Anthonys.

Gold Vermeil Jewelry FAQs

Does Gold Vermeil Jewelry Tarnish?

Typically, gold vermeil will not tarnish. However, if you see any discoloration, you can easily remove it with a soft polishing cloth.

Can I Get Vermeil Jewelry Wet?

You should avoid getting your vermeil jewelry wet. Occasional interaction with water won’t ruin your jewelry or be too harmful, but excessive, consistent exposure could alter its beauty.

Can I Shower with Vermeil Jewelry?

Occasional showers will not harm your jewelry, but it may degrade it over time.

Can Vermeil be Resized?

Gold vermeil rings are easy to resize, but doing so may change their appearance. If this happens, your ring may need to be replated.

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