What does gold filled mean

 Gold-filled jewelry is a popular and affordable option that has been around for over a century. It is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal using heat and pressure. The resulting product has a thick layer of gold that is much more durable and long-lasting than traditional gold-plated jewelry. In this article, we will explore what gold-filled means and how it differs from other types of gold jewelry.

What is Gold-Filled Jewelry?

Gold-filled jewelry is made by taking a base metal, usually brass, and bonding a thick layer of gold to it. The gold is mechanically bonded to the base metal using heat and pressure, which creates a durable and long-lasting product. The layer of gold in gold-filled jewelry is typically 5% to 10% of the total weight of the piece.

Gold-filled jewelry is regulated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States. According to FTC regulations, gold-filled jewelry must have a minimum thickness of 1/20th the weight of the total piece. This means that a piece of jewelry that weighs 10 grams must have at least 0.5 grams of gold.

How Does Gold-Filled Jewelry Differ from Other Types of Gold Jewelry?

There are several key differences between gold-filled jewelry and other types of gold jewelry:

1. Solid Gold: Solid gold jewelry is made entirely from gold and is the most expensive option. The price of solid gold jewelry is based on the karat weight of the gold used, with higher karat weights being more expensive.

2. Gold Plated: Gold-plated jewelry is made from a base metal such as brass or copper, which is then coated with a thin layer of gold using a process called electroplating. Gold-plated jewelry is typically less expensive than gold-filled and solid gold jewelry, but the layer of gold can wear off over time.

3. Gold Vermeil: Gold vermeil is a type of jewelry that is made from sterling silver and coated with a layer of gold. The gold used in vermeil is typically 14-karat or higher, and the coating must be at least 2.5 microns thick.

Benefits of Gold-Filled Jewelry

Gold-filled jewelry offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among consumers:

1. Affordability: Gold-filled jewelry is less expensive than solid gold jewelry but still has a thick layer of gold that gives it a luxurious look.

2. Durability: The thick layer of gold in gold-filled jewelry makes it more durable than gold-plated jewelry, which can wear off over time.

3. Hypoallergenic: Gold-filled jewelry is often hypoallergenic, making it a great option for people with sensitive skin.

4. Long-Lasting: Gold-filled jewelry can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.

How to Care for Gold-Filled Jewelry

To ensure that your gold-filled jewelry lasts as long as possible, it is important to take proper care of it:

1. Avoid Exposure to Moisture: Water and moisture can cause the gold layer to tarnish or wear off over time. Avoid wearing gold-filled jewelry while swimming, showering, or doing dishes.

2. Store Properly: Store your gold-filled jewelry in a dry and cool place, away from sunlight and other sources of heat.

3. Clean Gently: Use a soft cloth and gentle soap to clean your gold-filled jewelry. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.

4. Avoid Contact with Perfume, Cosmetics, and Lotion: Chemicals in perfume, cosmetics, and lotion can damage the gold layer on your jewelry. Apply these products before putting on your gold-filled jewelry.