Gold Vermeil vs. Gold Plated

Both start the same way: a layer of gold over another metal. The difference is what that other metal is, and how much gold sits on top.

The base

Vermeil requires a sterling silver base. Standard plating can sit on brass, copper, zinc alloys, almost anything. This matters twice: once for what touches your skin as the piece ages, and once for what the piece actually is. A vermeil piece is precious metal through and through.

The gold layer

To be called vermeil, the gold has to meet a minimum legal thickness. Ordinary plating has no such floor, and is often a fraction as thick. The gold on a plated fashion piece can begin to fade within weeks of daily wear.

The honest part

Vermeil is not solid gold, and no one should sell it as if it were. It is a real gold surface that rewards a little care and can be renewed by a jeweler years down the line. Plated fashion jewelry is usually not worth re-plating; the base is not worth the work.

Every gold piece at SEVORR is vermeil over 925 sterling silver. What we use and why is laid out on Our Materials, and the daily routine is on Jewelry Care.