The Truth About Gold Vermeil
... and why it’s part of our style
When you think of gold jewelry, you probably picture luxury and timeless beauty. But if you’ve ever wondered about gold vermeil, you're not alone. It’s a popular choice, offering the look of gold at a fraction of the cost of solid gold. But here’s the truth that many in the jewelry world don’t talk about: gold vermeil wears off, and we’re not hiding that.
In fact, it’s part of what makes our jewelry special. The way it evolves over time, the way it changes with you, that’s the real beauty. It’s not about perfection. It’s about being authentic, embracing imperfection, and letting your jewelry tell your story as it ages, just like you.
What Exactly is Gold Vermeil?
Let’s break it down. Gold vermeil is a thick layer of 24k gold plated onto recycled 925 sterling silver. For a piece to be classified as gold vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick. At Yoreh, we go even further, using 3.5 microns of 24k gold, so you’re definitely getting real gold, not just a cheap coating.
Gold vermeil is essentially gold that’s "painted" onto the jewelry. Over time, especially in areas where there’s more friction, like rings or bracelets, that layer of gold will naturally wear off. It’s like any gold-plated item, the more you wear it, the more it will fade. And that’s part of what makes it special.
And honestly, that’s something we love about it. When the gold starts to fade, the sterling silver underneath begins to show, creating a unique patina that no one else has. Your jewelry becomes even more personal, more yours. It evolves with you.
It’s not static. It’s not perfect. It’s real life. The more you wear it, the more your jewelry takes on a story of its own; it symbolises growth and freedom. It’s a reminder that you are always moving forward, always becoming more of who you’re meant to be…
Taking Care of Your Gold-Plated Jewelry
We recommend following these simple care instructions:
- Avoid Direct Contact with Chemicals: Chemical substances such as perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays can accelerate the tarnishing process. Therefore, we advise avoiding direct contact between your gold-plated jewelry and these chemicals.
- Remove Before Activities: Remove your gold-plated jewelry before engaging in activities such as swimming, exercising, or household chores to prevent damage or tarnishing.
- Gentle Cleaning: Regularly clean your gold-plated jewelry with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dirt or residue. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they may scratch or damage the delicate gold plating.
- Proper Storage: Store your gold-plated jewelry in a dry, airtight container or jewelry box when not in use to prevent exposure to moisture, which can cause tarnishing.
And if, at any point, you feel like your piece needs a little refresh? Don’t worry. We offer replating services. This way, if you want to bring back that shiny gold finish, you can. Your piece can continue to evolve with you, looking as radiant as the first day you wore it.
We hope this was helpful, and we strive to be as honest as possible about what to expect from our jewelry. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to us anytime. We're here to help.
Whole lotta love x
