Two necklaces. Both gold. Both gorgeous. One is $40 and the other is $400. What's going on?
Most of the time, the answer is what's underneath the gold. Let's break it down so you know exactly what you're paying for.
What "gold plated" actually means
Gold plating is a thin layer of real gold bonded onto another metal. The look is gold. The body of the jewelry is something else. That something else is what matters.
Gold plated silver
This is gold over a sterling silver base, usually 925 silver. You get the warm gold look, and the jewelry itself is a precious metal.
- When the plating softens over the years, you still have real silver underneath.
- It can often be re-plated by a jeweler, so the piece can last for decades.
- Sterling silver is generally kinder to sensitive skin than many base metals.
Gold plated brass or alloy
This is gold over brass, copper, or a mixed alloy. It's what most fashion and costume jewelry is made of.
- It's more affordable up front.
- Once the plating wears off, you're left with base metal that can tarnish or turn green.
- Some people react to the metals in alloys, especially nickel.
So which one should you buy?
Honestly, it depends on how you'll wear it. If you need a one-time look for a costume party, fashion jewelry is fine. If you want something you'll wear to every Diwali, every wedding, and maybe pass down someday, gold plated silver is worth it.
What about vermeil?
You might see the word vermeil (pronounced ver-may). In the US, it's a specific term for sterling silver plated with a thicker layer of gold. If a brand uses that word, they're claiming a higher standard of plating. Always check the product details.
How to tell what you're buying
- Read the metal line. Look for "925 sterling silver" or "gold plated silver." Phrases like "gold tone" or "gold finish" without a base metal usually mean alloy.
- Look for a stamp. Silver pieces are often marked 925, even when plated in gold.
- Ask. A good brand will happily tell you what's under the plating.
Making your gold plating last
- Put your jewelry on last, after perfume, lotion, and hairspray.
- Take it off before showering, swimming, or working out.
- Store pieces separately so they don't scratch each other.
- Wipe gently with a soft cloth. No harsh polishes.
At Yamoona
Our gold pieces are gold plated over 925 sterling silver, handcrafted by Indian artisans. We come from a family that has lived and breathed jewelry for years through Indeevari, and we built Yamoona on one simple idea: you should know exactly what you're wearing.
New to sterling? Read what 925 sterling silver means, then explore our gold plated silver pieces.
