Two years ago I made the decision to start investing in my jewelry, partly out of laziness, I hate taking my jewelry off lol. I started buying solid gold pieces and with the cost of them I needed to find an affordable but long lasting option. I was tired of my pieces turning after a month or so. After doing some research on different types of jewelry I found gold filled was the best option for me and my budget right now.
Definitions
Gold Plated
Thin layer of gold, if real gold usually 10K, around a base metal usually brass. The gold is usually 0.05% of the total weight of the jewelry or less.
Gold Filled
Thick layer of gold around a base metal usually brass. Gold is more than 0.05% of total weight to be classified as plated. 100x more gold alloy than gold plated because that layer is so much thicker.
How Long Does it Last?
Gold Plated - up to 2 years
Gold Filled - 10-30 years
Best Practices for Longer Wear
- Avoid Excess Moisture - Remove jewelry when washing hands, showering, swimming and working out. Water and sweat can wear the gold down exposing the base metal quicker.
- Avoid Over Exposure to Chemicals and Beauty Products - Perfumes, lotions, and other products or chemicals can negatively affect the life span of your pieces. It's recommended to remove jewelry when cleaning.
- Don't Sleep in Your Jewelry - The life span of your jewelry can be adversely affected by tossing, turning, and sweat that can occur during sleep.
- Keep Jewelry Stored When Not in Use - Store in a dry place and in soft cloth for extra protection. Properly storing your jewelry when not in use will extend its life. It will prevent scratches and unnecessary exposure to chemicals or beauty products.
LIFE HACKS: To extend the life of your gold plated jewelry you can coat with clear nail polish or clear spray paint. Do not polish as the plating can rub off.
Cost
Depends on if it is real gold or gold-colored metal. This is the typical cost I've seen on various sites. It depends if the jewelry is on sale and what other stones or metals are incorporated.
Gold Plated - $1-200
Gold Filled - $35-350
Solid Gold - $100-Thousands
When shopping look for descriptions like gold-colored/toned, gold-plated, gold vermeil, gold-filled, and solid gold.
What I'm Wearing:
NECKLACES: (top to bottom)
Crystal Necklace - Mejuri - https://mejuri.com/shop/products/lotu...
Thick Necklace - Thrifted - Similar
Gun Necklace - Lelia + Mae - https://bit.ly/3hBRcMA (RAVEN20 for 20% off)
Queen Necklace - Lelia + Mae -https://bit.ly/3cekIqz (RAVEN20 for 20% off)
RINGS:
Mejuri - https://bit.ly/2ZOjf5i
Lelia + Mae - https://bit.ly/32E7m3I (RAVEN20 for 20% off)
Lelia + Mae - https://bit.ly/3cekZd5 (RAVEN20 for 20% off)
EARRINGS:
Small Hoops - Lelia + Mae - https://bit.ly/3hMaiQ1 (RAVEN20 for 20% off)
Big Hoops - Lelia + Mae - https://bit.ly/3c8u4UV (RAVEN20 for 20% off)
24kt Gold Plated 5mm CZ - Claire's - https://bit.ly/2RD6AOe
Top Stud - Similar - https://bit.ly/3hLuVMm
Black Owned Businesses gold filled gold plated gold vermiel Lelia + Mae Mejuri solid gold
