Gold Vermeil is experiencing a surging popularity in the jewellery world, and it's not hard to see why.
If you're a fan of beautiful, high-quality jewellery, you may have heard or seen the term "18ct Gold Vermeil" floating around. But what exactly is it, and why is it such a sought-after material for jewellery making? In this blog, we'll dive into the world of 18ct gold vermeil and explore it's unique properties, history, and why it's becoming such a popular choice for jewellery lovers everywhere.
First things first: "vermeil" is a type of plating that uses a much thicker layer (than traditional gold plating) of 18ct gold to cover a base of sterling silver. This base metal makes Vermeil also hypoallergenic, making it perfect for earrings and rings where cheaper base metals could irritate the skin, or even turn it green. The "18ct" (formally known as 18 carats) refers to the amount of pure gold in the plating, with 18ct gold being made up of 75% pure gold and 25% other metals, to make it more durable whilst maintaining the gold's famous yellow hue.
So why choose 18ct gold vermeil over solid gold or other plating options? For starters, it's more affordable than solid gold while still offering the same luxurious look and feel. Additionally, the thickness of the gold plating on vermeil jewellery means it's more durable and long-lasting than other types of gold plating. Be aware that some gold plating can be 'flash plated', which means the gold plating will not last very long, or plated on cheap base metals.
Here's a visual summary we created to explain what gold-plated, gold vermeil & solid gold consist of.
The history of vermeil is just as fascinating as its properties. The word "vermeil" actually comes from the French word for "gilded silver," and the technique has been used for centuries to create beautiful, ornate pieces. In the 18th and 19th centuries, vermeil was particularly popular in France, where it was used to create stunning pieces for royalty and the wealthy.
Today, 18ct gold vermeil is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and it's not hard to see why. With its affordability, durability, and versatility, vermeil has become a go-to material for jewellery designers and makers worldwide. Whether you're looking for a timeless piece to add to your collection or a unique fashion-forward piece to complete your look and show your personality, there's no denying the beauty of 18ct gold vermeil.
Have you tried 18ct Gold Vermeil jewellery yet? Let us know via our chat box, we'd love to hear from you.
Love,
The Constellations team