What is gold vermeil?
How is gold vermeil different to gold-plated?
‘If a jewellery item is classed as “gold vermeil” (pronounced "ver-may"), it means it is plated with a thick layer of 2.5 microns of 24-carat gold over a base of 925-stamped sterling silver,’ says Lianna.
‘It is different to gold-plated jewellery in that gold-plated has a brass base with 1 micron of 10k gold. Both types are long-lasting with the right care, but if you were choosing gold earrings, gold-plated have a lower price point.’
Why do we use it?
'Vermeil gold is a more premium jewellery, based on the value of materials used,’ says Lianna. ‘The plating is thicker than that used on our brass pieces and it can be a great second-best choice to solid gold if you’re looking for a more affordable but luxurious option.’
Lianna explains that gold vermeil can be very durable when looked after well. ‘The plating is guaranteed for at least six months - more if you take good care of it. The gold layer will naturally wear away in time and reveal the silver underneath, especially in high-friction areas such as on necklaces where the jump ring sits on the chain. But with careful wear it will last much longer.’
Our expert says
‘If a jewellery item is classed as “gold vermeil” (pronounced "ver-may"), it means it is plated with a thick layer of 2.5 microns of 24-carat gold over a base of 925-stamped sterling silver.’
Should gold vermeil be cared for differently?
‘We always recommend taking good care of our jewellery pieces to keep them in great condition for as long as possible,’ says Lianna. ‘With vermeil gold you can use a soft and dry 100% cotton or microfibre lint-free jewellery cloth every now and then to gently rub the surface of your jewellery and restore its shine.’
‘As with all our jewellery products, we recommend keeping items dry and removing for showering or exercise, and before adding body lotion or sun cream. It also makes sense to keep them in jewellery storage when they’re not being worn or when you’re travelling, so that pieces don’t rub together.’
Shop gold vermeil jewellery
Take a look at our Mikaela Lyons x Oliver Bonas jewellery collaboration for a shining example of gold vermeil designs. Mikaela is a British jewellery designer whose pieces take inspiration from old coins and classic jewellery symbols, reinvented with her own unique, contemporary stamp. Handmade in the UK, the collection features both silver and gold vermeil jewellery items in Mikaela’s signature style.