Vermeil Jewellery: Is it An Affordable alternative?
Jewellery is more than just an accessory. It's a way to express ourselves and, sometimes, our style. While gold and silver often get recognised, there is a difference when you combine them together.
What is Vermeil?
Vermeil (pronounced 'ver-may') is gold-plated jewellery. Originating from a French term in the 1750s, it refers to a process where silver is gilded with gold to give it a gold shiny appearance.
In vermeil jewellery, sterling silver is the base metal, making up 99.9% of the weight. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold the structure of the piece. Gold, known for its incredible density, imparts strength even in small quantities.
The jewellery is coated with a thin layer of gold to infuse the piece with a radiant finish. This layer is usually just 2.5 microns thick, equating to approximately 0.000025% of gold. Despite its minimal proportion, this gold coating significantly enhances the aesthetic appeal of the jewellery, giving it a warm, shiny glow.
The Value and Durability of Vermeil
While the gold in vermeil jewellery adds a touch of luxury, it does not hold the same value as solid gold. This is due to the thinness of the gold layer, which is prone to wear off over time. However, the beauty of vermeil jewellery lies in its unique combination of durability and elegance. The sterling silver base provides a strong foundation, while the gold coating adds a luxurious touch.
Vermeil vs Solid Gold
It's crucial to distinguish 18ct gold vermeil from 18ct solid gold. While vermeil offers a touch of luxury and elegance, it does not possess the same value as solid gold. The reason being the gold layer in vermeil, although visually appealing, is very thin and prone to wear off over time. On the other hand, 18ct solid gold jewellery, crafted entirely from gold, holds much more intrinsic value.
18ct Solid Gold Jewellery is blend of 75% Solid Gold and 25% Alloys. You can learn more about What is 18ct Solid Gold.
Caring for Vermeil Jewellery
To prolong the life of your vermeil jewellery, it is recommended to protect it from harsh chemicals such as perfume, lotion, or chlorine, which can strip away the gold layer. Store your vermeil pieces in a cool, dry place and clean them gently with a soft cloth to maintain their shine.
Vermeil: An Affordable Alternative, Not a Replacement
While vermeil jewellery provides an affordable alternative to solid gold jewellery, it doesn't replace its qualities. One notable aspect is that vermeil, unlike gold, may cause skin discolouration over time. Some people may find their skin turning green after extended wear, a common reaction to certain metals and not a health concern.
Vermeil jewellery offers a unique blend of affordability and style. It's a popular choice among those who desire the look of gold without paying too much. However, this can lead to a cycle of buying affordable jewellery which doesn't last. Remember that it doesn't mimic all the properties of 18ct solid gold jewellery, and proper care is necessary to maintain its charm.
Ready to buy happiness but in Solid Gold? Shop our range of 18ct Yellow Solid Gold Jewellery.