Is Gold Vermeil or Goldfill the Same as Solid Gold?Updated 4 months ago
Materials Guide
Gold Vermeil, Goldfill & Solid Gold
We use high-quality 14k gold in our vermeil and goldfill pieces, and solid gold pieces ranging from 10k-14k.
14k Gold Vermeil
14k gold plated over sterling silver
Thicker layer than standard gold plating
Contains real 14k gold
Can fade or tarnish over time with exposure to water, moisture, lotions, perfumes, sweat, chemicals, and even individual skin chemistry (pH levels can sometimes cause reactions or accelerate tarnishing)
Best suited for occasional or mindful wear
Because vermeil has a bonded gold layer over silver, it will naturally wear down over time with repeated friction or water exposure.
14k Goldfill
A thick layer of 14k gold pressure-bonded to a base metal (usually brass)
Contains significantly more gold than plated jewelry
More durable and water-resistant than vermeil, which is why we use it in our Permanent Jewelry Spark Collection as a great and more affordable alternative to solid gold
Suitable for everyday wear with proper care
Note: Although highly durable, goldfill is still a layered material. Frequent exposure to water, friction, or certain skin chemistry can eventually cause fading.
Solid Gold (10k-14k)
Made entirely of gold alloy (not layered or plated)
Does not tarnish like plated or bonded materials
Most durable and long-lasting option
Safe for everyday wear, including occasional water exposure
14k White Gold:
White gold is created by combining yellow gold with naturally white metals such as palladium, nickel, or silver, then plated with rhodium to achieve a bright, silvery finish. On some people, the rhodium layer may wear differently or react slightly with individual skin chemistry, causing the piece to appear warmer or slightly gold-toned. This is normal and does not affect the quality of the jewelry.
If you plan to wear your jewelry in water regularly, solid gold is always the best choice.
What Does “Karat” (K) Mean?
Karat refers to the purity of gold, not the size (that’s “carat,” which measures gemstones).
Pure gold is 24k. Because pure gold is very soft, it’s mixed with other metals for strength.
10k gold = 41.7% pure gold (more durable, slightly lighter tone)
14k gold = 58.3% pure gold (richer colour, still very durable)
Both 10k and 14k are excellent for everyday fine jewelry. The higher the karat, the warmer and richer the gold tone.
Water & Care Recommendations
We do not recommend wearing jewelry in:
Pools
Hot tubs
Chlorinated water
Harsh chemical environments
Chlorine, chemicals, friction, and individual skin chemistry can significantly speed up fading and wear on vermeil and goldfill pieces.
Items showing damage consistent with the above conditions are not covered under warranty.