What is Gold-Filled Jewelry? How Do You Care for It? Is it Right for You?

When you're looking to upgrade your jewelry collection or give a thoughtful, classy gift, you may be looking to purchase gold-filled jewelry. But what is gold-filled? Is it durable? Does it tarnish? Does it use real gold? How do you care for gold-filled? Our complete guide can answer your questions so you can feel confident in your next jewelry purchase!

First, What is Gold-Filled Jewelry?

Gold-filled is actually a bit of a misnomer. Instead of filling the piece with gold, the outer layer is overlaid with gold. Gold-filled jewelry is a popular, more affordable option to solid-gold pieces, while maintaining high quality. Why? Gold-filled jewelry is strictly regulated by the US government in what is allowed to constitute being labeled “gold-filled”.

Gold-filled jewelry means gold alloy must legally constitute 5% of the jewelry piece’s total weight. Our gold filled jewelry is 14 karat gold, so you can expect the utmost quality and durability.

How is Gold-Filled Jewelry Made?

The process of making the gold-filled is when the gold alloy is mechanically bonded to the inner metal core using heat to fuse together the top gold layer with the underlying core. The core of our gold filled jewelry is jewelers brass, which is made up of zinc and copper metal. This process ensures that your gold-filled jewelry will be durable and high-quality. 

How to Tell if Your Piece is Gold-Filled

Traditionally your piece will be marked with “GF” after the karat number. An example you might look for is “14K GF” or "14/20 GF" which are the marks we use on our jewelry. You can be assured that all of our jewelry that's advertised as gold filled is in fact gold filled, if you have any questions or concerns about our gold jewelry, please reach out to us!

Can you get Rose Gold-Filled Jewelry?

Yes, you can. It is the same process and standards as using yellow gold, simply switching it to rose gold instead. As of the time of this post, we only offer rose gold filled in some of our ring designs.

Is Gold-Filled Jewelry Good Quality? Is it Durable?

Yes! Gold-filled jewelry is a popular option if you want beautiful, durable pieces to add to your collection, plus it’s perfect for gift giving. Because it is strictly regulated, you can be assured as to the quality and materials of your new piece. Of course, you must make sure you are properly caring for your jewelry to help it keep its look and extend the life and wearability of it. But with the proper care, you or a loved one can enjoy your jewelry for many years to come!

Gold-Filled Vs. Gold-Plated: What is the Difference Between Them?

While gold-filled and gold-plated may seem to be one in the same, there are notable differences in the process, quality, and durability, that you need to be aware of when weighing the two. While gold-filled must be at least 5% of the total weight, gold-plated need only be 0.5%. This means your gold layer is 10x less durable than gold-filled. One scratch could take off the gold and expose the underlying metal core. While gold-filled pieces can tarnish or scratch, they are less prone to doing so that gold-plated ones.

Gold-plated is a great option if you are looking for the classic gold look, but for less notable occasions that aren’t meant to make it last. Examples can include trendy pieces and costume jewelry. Gold-filled is more the standard for pieces that you want to last and/or look more professional wearing. Use gold-filled for durability, or special occasions, as well as gift giving.

Does Gold-Filled Jewelry Tarnish?

In rare cases, yes, gold-filled jewelry can tarnish. Because gold-filled is made to last, it has quite a thick layer of gold alloy. This makes it more difficult for it to become green, blackened, or tarnish in other ways. However, if you store it properly, avoid having it come into contact with harsh chemicals (including harsh soaps), and avoid scratches or scrubbing it, your gold-filled piece will continue to shine!

Does Gold-Filled Jewelry Turn Green?

Because Gold-filled jewelry is tarnish resistant, if you care for it properly, it will not oxidize and turn your skin green. You can learn more about caring for your jewelry here.

Is Gold-Filled Jewelry Hypoallergenic?

Yes, Gold-filled jewelry is great for those with sensitive skin! Because of the quality of the gold, and the thick layer used on every verifiable gold-filled piece, it is a wonderful hypoallergenic, affordable option.

What Kind of Jewelry Can Be Gold-Filled?

Virtually any type of jewelry pieces can be gold-filled! We offer the following, common types of jewelry:

• Gold-filled necklaces
• Gold-filled rings
• Gold-filled earrings
• And more!

If you are looking for a special type of jewelry piece, or perhaps a trendy rose gold option, contact us to find out if we offer what you’re looking for, we can make a custom piece for you!

How to Care for Your Gold-Filled Jewelry

While gold-filled jewelry is known for its durability, it can still tarnish or scratch if not properly cared for. The best way to care for your gold-filled pieces is as follows:

• Clean your jewelry in warm water using a recommended jewelry cleaner or mild soap.
• Pat your jewelry dry with a soft cloth, such as a microfiber cloth. Avoid rubbing or scratching.
• Do not take your gold-filled jewelry into the ocean or pools, avoid having it come into contact with harsh chemicals, such as household cleaning products, hairspray, or perfumes.
• Store your pieces in a cool, dry place. Humidity can potentially lead to tarnishing and oxidation.
• When you feel the luster of your gold-filled jewelry is dulling, gently wipe it with a soft cloth and jewelry polish to keep it shining like new!
• Avoid too much friction and touching that may cause your gold-fill to rub down.

Buying Gold-Filled Jewelry

Now that you know what gold-filled is and how to care for it, you’re ready to buy! Whether you’re buying yourself a special treat, or you want to show someone you love how important they are to you, gold-filled jewelry is a stunning, affordable option that is built to last. And the good news is it is a common form of jewelry that we offer. Veeaien Designs has been creating unique, high-quality gold-filled jewelry pieces for more than 5 years! You can check out more of our collection here to learn more about this popular jewelry style!