What is Gold Vermeil?
Vermeil (noun) "vehr·may" Is a thick layer of 18K Solid Gold on Sterling Silver meaning it will last long. A Unique Blend of High Quality, Precious metal, without the hefty price tag. Put simply, 18K Gold Vermeil gives you the best quality for the best price.
Is Vermeil the same as gold plated jewelry?
Gold vermeil is not the same as gold plated jewelry. The main differences between gold vermeil and gold plated jewelry are the thickness of the gold plating and the base metal used. Gold plated jewelry has plating at least 0.5 microns thick (5x less than gold vermeil). It does not require a sterling silver base; it usually uses inexpensive materials, such as copper or brass as its core metal. Since the layer of gold is so thin, the gold plating tends to wear off very quickly, which can cause the jewelry to degrade at a faster speed.
Gold vermeil is a legally regulated term that refers to jewelry with a sterling silver base metal and a layer of gold plating that is at least 2.5 microns thick. Gold vermeil is superior to gold plated jewelry in terms of longevity, quality and value!