π Types of Gold Jewellery: Know the Difference π
Not everything that glitters is pure gold. Hereβs how *Pure Gold, Gold-Plated on Silver, Gold-Plated on Brass, and **Alloy jewelry* truly compare π
π‘ *Pure Gold*
- Made entirely from real gold (commonly 18K, 22K, or 24K). Β
- Doesnβt tarnish or fade β timeless and valuable. Β
- Heavy, rich in color, and often used as fine or investment jewelry. Β
- π° *Highest value* and durability. Β
π€ *Gold-Plated on Silver (Gold Vermeil)*
- Base metal: *925 sterling silver*, plated with a thick layer of real gold. Β Β
- Hypoallergenic and durable β more premium than regular gold plating. Β
- Looks luxurious like pure gold but more affordable. Β
- The gold layer can wear off over time but can be *replated*.
- π *Best balance of quality and price.* Β
π€ *Gold-Plated on Brass*
- Base metal: *brass*, coated with a thin layer of gold. Β
- Lightweight and very cost-effective. Β
- Made for trendy, fashion-forward styles β but not as durable. Β
- The gold layer can fade or tarnish sooner.
- β‘ *Great for style, not for longevity.*
π©Ά *Alloy Jewellery*
- Made by mixing various metals (like copper, zinc, nickel, etc.) β *no real gold*.
- Plated or colored to resemble gold but contains little to no real gold content.
- Very affordable and ideal for costume or fashion use.
- May tarnish, discolor, or cause skin reactions over time.
- π« *Budget-friendly, short-term shine.*
Jewellery Tips
β¨ *Quick Comparison Table*
| Type | Base Material | Contains Real Gold | Durability | Value | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| *Pure Gold* | Gold | π― Yes β 100% | Durability:Β Years/Centuries | Value:Β Price per gram of 24 K pure gold: about $139 USD per gram | Investment & Fine Jewellery |
| *Gold-Plated on Silver* | 925 Silver | β Yes β Thick Layer | Around 1 to 2 years | $20β$150 USD for finished pieces | Everyday Luxury |
| *Gold-Plated on Brass* | Brass | β Yes β Thin Layer | Around 6 months to 1 years | around $15 β $100+ USD | Fashion Jewellery |
| *Alloy Jewellery* | Mixed Metals | β No | Around 6 months to 1 years | around $5 β $50 USD | Costume/Trendy Looks |
| Type:Β *Pure Gold* | Base Material:Β Gold | Contains Real Gold:Β π― Yes β 100% | Durability:Β Years/Centuries | Value:Β Price per gram of 24 K pure gold: about $139 USD per gram | Best For:Β Investment & Fine Jewellery |
| Type:Β *Gold-Plated on Silver* | Base Material:Β 925 Silver | Contains Real Gold:Β β Yes β Thick Layer | Durability:Β Around 1 to 2 years | Value:Β $20β$150 USD for finished pieces | Best For:Β Everyday Luxury |
| Type:Β *Gold-Plated on Brass* | Base Material:Β Brass | Contains Real Gold:Β β Yes β Thin Layer | Durability:Β Around 6 months to 1 years | Value:Β around $15 β $100+ USD | Best For:Β Fashion Jewellery |
| Type:Β *Alloy Jewellery* | Base Material:Β Mixed Metals | Contains Real Gold:Β β No | Durability:Β Around 6 months to 1 years | Value:Β around $5 β $50 USD | Best For:Β Costume/Trendy Looks |