What is Gold Filled? What You Need to Know!

Gold filled jewelry has become increasingly popular in recent years. Whether you're looking for a unique piece of jewelry or just want to make an investment, gold filled jewelry is the perfect choice. But what is gold filled? In this blog, we will answer all your questions about gold filled jewelry, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to gold filled jewelry.

Gold-filled jewelry is a type of jewelry that is made with a base metal and then has a layer of 14k solid gold on top. This layer of gold is usually 100 times thicker than gold plating. Gold-filled jewelry is also known as rolled gold or gold overlay. The layer of gold is tightly bonded to the base metal, making it more durable than gold plating and more resistant to scratching and wear.

Yes, gold-filled jewelry is composed of a solid layer of 14k gold bonded with heat and pressure to a base metal such as brass. Gold-filled items have 100 times more gold than plated items and are much more valuable and tarnish-resistant. They are considered heirloom quality and often last longer than plated items. Because of the higher gold content, gold-filled items are generally more expensive than plated items, but they will still cost less than solid gold items.

The gold used in gold-filled jewelry is usually 14-karat gold, the minimum layer of karat gold must equal at least 1/20th of the total weight of the piece. This layer is much thicker than gold-plating, and is more durable and valuable. Gold-filled jewelry can last a lifetime if taken care of properly and is more affordable than solid gold jewelry. This is the same type of gold used in most jewelry, with a purity of 58.3%. So, when you buy gold-filled jewelry, you can be sure that you're getting a quality piece made with real gold.

Gold-filled items are made by bonding a solid layer of gold to a base metal such as brass or sterling silver. The layer of gold must be at least 5% of the total weight of the piece. This layer of gold is mechanically bonded to the base metal and is much thicker than gold plating. The result is a durable product that is more valuable than gold plating and will last much longer.

Gold-plated items, on the other hand, have a very thin layer of gold that is applied to the base metal using an electrical current. The gold layer is usually less than 0.5 microns thick and can wear away over time. Gold plating is an economical way to give a piece of jewelry a gold look without the cost of using solid gold.

Gold-filled jewelry can range in quality depending on the thickness of the gold layer and the type of base metal used. Generally, the thicker the layer of gold, the higher the quality.

Gold-filled jewelry can last a lifetime with proper care. It is also much less likely to cause skin irritation compared to plated jewelry. Gold-filled jewelry is a great choice for those who want the look of solid gold jewelry without the high cost.

Gold-filled jewelry is much more durable than gold-plated jewelry and is resistant to scratching and wear. However, gold-filled jewelry can still wear off over time, just like any other type of jewelry.

To ensure that your gold-filled jewelry lasts as long as possible, it's important to take good care of it. Store your jewelry away from direct sunlight and moisture, and avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals. Clean your gold-filled jewelry regularly, using a soft cloth and a mild soap solution.

Gold-filled jewelry is unlikely to turn green.

However, it's important to note that some people may be allergic to the base metal used in gold-filled jewelry. If this is the case, the jewelry may cause a skin reaction, such as itching or a rash.

Yes, gold-filled jewelry is worth the investment. Gold-filled jewelry is made with real gold, and the layer of gold is usually 100 times thicker than gold plating, making it much more durable. Gold-filled jewelry is also a great way to invest in gold without paying the high price of solid gold jewelry.

Yes, you can wear gold-filled jewelry every day.

Gold-filled jewelry is made with a thick layer of solid gold bonded to a base metal such as sterling silver or brass. The gold layer constitutes at least 5% of the total weight and is much thicker than gold plating. This makes gold-filled jewelry more durable and longer-lasting than gold plating, while still giving you the look of luxurious gold jewelry at an affordable price point.

Gold-filled jewelry is also hypoallergenic and safe for those with sensitive skin. For these reasons, gold-filled jewelry is perfect for everyday wear.

Gold filled jewelry is an economical alternative to solid gold and can last for years if given proper care. Because gold-filled jewelry is not solid gold, it does not have the same longevity as solid gold, but with proper care, it can last a lifetime. To ensure that your gold-filled jewelry lasts as long as possible, keep it away from harsh chemicals, chlorine, and salt water, and store it away from direct sunlight. Cleaning your gold-filled jewelry regularly with a jewelry cleaning cloth or mild soap and water solution will help to maintain its luster and shine.

You can tell if gold is filled or plated by looking at the markings on the item. Many items are stamped with a karat weight and/or a manufacturer’s hallmark. Filled jewelry will often have the number “1/20” followed by the karat weight of the gold, such as 14K 1/20. This indicates that the item is made with 1/20th of the karat weight of gold. Plated jewelry may have the initials GP or GF stamped on it, which stands for gold-plated or gold-filled, respectively. Additionally, you can tell whether a piece of jewelry is filled or plated by testing it with an acid test kit, available at most jewelry supply stores. This test will indicate the purity of the metal used to make the item. 

You can also look at the thickness of the gold layer. Gold plated jewelry has a very thin layer of gold that is usually less than 2.5 microns thick. Gold filled jewelry, on the other hand, has a much thicker layer of gold that is usually 100 times thicker than gold plating.