Let's jump into the differences between gold-plated and gold-filled jewelry.  Both are made by bonding a layer of gold onto a base metal, but there are significant differences between the two.  Let's start off with the Composition.

Composition

 

 

 

      • Gold-Plated : Gold-plated jewelry is composed of a thin layer of gold bonded to a base metal through an electroplating process. This gold layer is thinner and can wear off over time. 
      • Gold-Filled : Gold-filled jewelry involves bonding a thicker layer of gold to the base metal, under heat and pressure. This layer is much thicker than gold-plated, making it more durable.

    Gold Content

     

        • Gold-Plated : The gold layer in gold-plated jewelry is typically quite thin, usually around 0.5 to 2.5 microns.
        • Gold-Filled : Gold-filled jewelry has a much thicker layer of gold, usually around 5% to 10% of the total weight of the item.

        Durability 

         

         

            • Gold-Plated : Due to the thin gold layer, the bright gold color you see may change in color or wear off over time, especially with frequent use, but don't be discouraged by this; gold-plated jewelry can last, but it just requires more care.  The gold-plated findings and accents that we use are the best quality that we have been able to find, and have endured frequent wear well. We can attest to this as wearers of Shop Lucky Charms' jewelry.
            • Gold-Filled : The thicker layer of gold in gold-filled jewelry makes it more durable and longer-lasting compared to gold-plated.

            Allergies and Sensitivities

             

             

                • Gold-Plated : People with sensitive skin may encounter irritation due to the reactive base metal or the gold layer's wear.  We try to steer clear of any nickel-based metals due to the negative reactions many people have when wearing them.
                • Gold-Filled : It is less likely to cause skin reactions as the gold layer is thicker and less likely to wear off.
              Price

                

                  • Gold-Plated : Generally less expensive than gold-filled jewelry due to the thinner gold layer.
                  • Gold-Filled : More expensive than gold-plated jewelry due to the higher gold content.
                Longevity

                  

                    • Gold-Plated : Can last a while if well taken care of, but will eventually wear off.
                    • Gold-Filled : With proper care, gold-filled jewelry has the potential to last a lifetime.

                     

                    Gold-filled jewelry is a superior quality and more durable option in contrast to gold-plated jewelry. It tends to be more expensive, but it also retains its value better over time. If you're looking for jewelry capable of enduring regular wear and lasting longer, gold-filled is the optimal choice.

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