What is gold vermeil jewelry?

What is gold vermeil? Everything you need to know before you buy

If you love the look of solid gold but want something more affordable without compromising on quality, gold vermeil jewelry might just be your perfect match. Elegant, long-lasting, and rooted in craftsmanship, gold vermeil jewelry is having a moment—and for good reason. But what exactly is it, and how does it differ from other gold alternatives like gold filled or gold plated jewelry? Let’s dive into the details so you can make an informed and centered choice.

What is gold vermeil? Gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) is a legally regulated term in most places in the world - that refers to a specific type of high-quality gold plating over a sterling silver base. In order for a piece to be classified as gold vermeil jewelry, it must meet three strict requirements:

• The base metal must be 925 sterling silver — not brass nor copper.

• The gold must be at least 10 karats.

• The gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick.

That extra-thick gold layer and use of precious sterling silver set gold vermeil apart from cheaper gold alternatives. It’s more durable and valuable than standard gold plating, making it a luxurious yet practical option for everyday jewelry. As many jewelry brands plate their jewelry with 0.3 to 1 micron, we chose to go for 3 micron.

How is gold vermeil different from gold plated and gold filled jewelry? There are several types of gold jewelry available, and it’s easy to get confused. Here’s how gold vermeil jewelry compares:

• Gold plated jewelry typically has a thin gold coating (often less than 0.5 microns) applied over any base metal like brass. It tends to wear off quickly and may cause skin reactions if you’re sensitive to nickel or copper due to the base.

• Gold filled jewelry has a thicker layer of gold (at least 5% by weight), also bonded to any base metal such as brass. It’s more durable than plated jewelry but lacks the precious metal sterling silver core found in gold vermeil jewelry - which can cause allergies.

• Gold vermeil jewelry uses a base of solid sterling silver with a thick layer of real gold, giving it a premium feel, makes it hypoallergenic and longer lifespan compared to gold-plated pieces.

In short, gold vermeil jewelry offers the beauty of gold and the value of silver — without the high cost of solid gold.

Why choose gold vermeil jewelry? There are several reasons why gold vermeil jewelry is a popular choice for modern, mindful shoppers like you:

• Affordable luxury: It offers the same elegance and luster as solid gold, but at a more accessible price.

• Hypoallergenic: Sterling silver is generally safe for sensitive skin, making gold vermeil jewelry a great alternative for those prone to allergies.

• Ethical sourcing: At BOUND STUDIOS, our gold vermeil jewelry is crafted using recycled sterling silver and repurposed gold, supporting a more sustainable future.

• Longevity and quality: Thanks to its thicker gold layer, gold vermeil jewelry tarnishes slower and holds its color beautifully over time. If you take good care of your gold vermeil jewelry, it will stay gold for a life time.

Gold vermeil jewelry is ideal for anyone who values quality and design, without the  ethical compromises of fast fashion accessories. As the precious materials will give you the quality feel and will appreciate in value over time.

How to care for gold vermeil jewelry:
While gold vermeil jewelry is more durable than gold-plated alternatives, it still requires thoughtful care to maintain its shine. Here are a few tips to keep your pieces looking their best:

• Avoid direct contact with unclean water, oils, chemicals, perfume, lotion, and sweat. Moisture and chemicals can break down the gold layer over time.

• Store each piece in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in a jewelry box to avoid scratches.

• Polish gently with a microfiber or non-abrasive cloth. Avoid jewelry cleaners or harsh cleaning agents, as these can erode the gold finish.

Following these steps will help your gold vermeil jewelry maintain its beauty and integrity for years to come. Do keep in mind that silver is on the soft end of materials so over time it can have some little dents over time, especially rings as they hit hard surfaces. Yet our rings are all solid never hallow, a lot of premium gold vermeil jewelry is hallow - this is still important to consider when choosing your gold vermeil rings. 

Is gold vermeil worth it? Absolutely. If you’re someone who wants to wear beautiful, long-lasting jewelry every day, gold vermeil jewelry is one of the best options out there together with solid gold.

And because it’s crafted with sterling silver underneath, it also retains intrinsic value.

Gold vermeil jewelry can also be a conscious investment. At BOUND, each piece is intentionally made to honor both style and ethics. We design in Amsterdam and handcraft our jewelry in Portugal using only recycled and responsibly sourced precious materials.

Whether you're treating yourself or gifting someone special, gold vermeil jewelry in a timeless/classic design offers a meaningful, lasting piece of jewelry that won’t go out of style.

What to look for when buying gold vermeil jewelry
When shopping for gold vermeil jewelry, look for clear labeling and transparency about materials and processes. Not all vermeil is created equal, so it’s essential to buy from trusted brands who meet your standards and share their sourcing practices. 

Ask questions like:

• Is the base metal sterling silver?

• How thick is the gold layer?

• What karat is the gold used?

• Are the materials ethically sourced?

We proudly share our commitment to transparency. Every piece of our gold vermeil jewelry is crafted with intention, designed to be worn, loved, and passed on—not discarded.

Final thoughts on gold vermeil jewelry
Gold vermeil jewelry strikes the perfect balance between elegance and practicality. It's made for people who care about style, but also want their pieces to have meaning and integrity. With its rich golden hue, durable construction, and ethical edge, gold vermeil jewelry makes a smart and beautiful addition to any collection.

So whether you’re looking to elevate your daily look or searching for the perfect heirloom - inspired piece, gold vermeil jewelry offers the best of all worlds: quality, style, and conscience.

Welcome to the world of thoughtful luxury.

Lots of love,

THE BOUND STUDIOS TEAM