Types of Gold Jewellery
19 Aug 2025

Types of Gold Jewellery: A Complete Guide for You

Gold has always been a symbol of elegance, wealth, and timeless beauty. But not all gold jewellery is made the same, especially when it comes to gold plating techniques. Depending on the plating, the durability, shine, and price of gold jewellery can vary dramatically.

In this post, we’ll explore the different types of gold jewellery and help you understand why KYMEE’s 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery for Women is the ultimate choice for everyday elegance.

Introduction to Gold-Plated Jewellery

Gold jewellery isn’t always crafted from solid gold. Instead, many pieces use plating techniques that coat a base metal with a layer of gold. This makes jewellery more affordable and accessible while still providing that golden glow women love.

The type of plating, whether standard gold plating, gold-filled, vermeil, or solid gold, determines how long the shine lasts and how the piece feels against your skin.

Why Gold Plating Matters in Jewellery

Gold plating isn’t just about aesthetics; it affects:

  • Durability – How long the jewellery will last without tarnishing.
  • Skin Safety – Whether it’s hypoallergenic or likely to cause irritation.
  • Affordability – How much it costs compared to solid gold.
  • Maintenance – How easy it is to clean and store.

Understanding the types of plating helps women make smarter choices when shopping for gold jewellery.

Major Types of Gold-Plated Jewellery

1. Gold-Plated Jewellery

Gold-plated jewellery is created by applying a thin layer of gold over a base metal such as brass or copper.

Features of Standard Gold Plating

  • Affordable and stylish.
  • Available in a wide variety of designs.

Pros & Cons of Gold-Plated Jewellery

Pros: Budget-friendly, trendy, accessible.
Cons: Not very durable, may tarnish over time.

2. Gold-Filled Jewellery

Gold-filled jewellery is made by mechanically bonding a thick layer of gold onto a base metal.

How Gold-Filled Differs from Plated Jewellery

  • Contains more gold than standard plating.
  • Lasts longer with proper care.

Durability & Care Tips

  • Avoid exposure to water and chemicals.
  • Store in anti-tarnish bags for longevity.

3. Gold Vermeil Jewellery

Gold vermeil is where 925 sterling silver is coated with a thick layer of real gold.

What is Gold Vermeil?

  • Requires at least 2.5 microns of gold plating.
  • Always uses sterling silver as the base.

Benefits of 18K Gold Vermeil for Women

  • Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.
  • Retains its shine longer than standard plating.
  • Offers a luxury look without the premium cost.

Why Choose KYMEE’s 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery

KYMEE’s women’s jewellery collection uses 18K gold vermeil for a rich, elegant finish. Designed for modern women, these pieces strike the perfect balance between luxury and affordability, making them ideal for daily wear or special occasions.

4. Solid Gold Jewellery

Solid gold is the purest form of gold jewellery, crafted from alloys of real gold.

14K, 18K, and 24K Gold Explained

  • 14K Gold: Strong and durable, ideal for everyday wear.
  • 18K Gold: Richer in colour, luxurious yet durable.
  • 24K Gold: Purest form, but soft and prone to scratches.

Investment vs. Everyday Wear

  • Solid gold is best for investment and heirloom pieces.
  • Vermeil and gold-filled jewellery are smarter choices for trendy, everyday use.

Comparing Different Gold Plating Types

Type Durability Cost Base Metal Ideal For
Gold-Plated Low Affordable Brass/Copper Fashion jewellery
Gold-Filled Medium-High Moderate Brass/Copper Everyday wear
Gold Vermeil High Luxury Affordable Sterling Silver Sensitive skin & premium looks
Solid Gold Very High Expensive Pure Gold Alloy Investment & heirlooms

How to Choose the Right One for You

Type Best For Budget Durability Skin Sensitivity Everyday Wear? Pros Cons
Gold-Plated Occasional use, fashion jewellery ₹ Very Low Low (wears off quickly) May cause irritation Not recommended Inexpensive, trendy styles Tarnishes quickly, short lifespan
Gold Vermeil Style + quality, on a budget ₹₹ Moderate Moderate (if thick plating) Hypoallergenic (sterling silver base) Suitable with care Better quality, thicker plating Needs gentle care, still plated
Gold-Filled Everyday use, durability without high cost ₹₹₹ Higher High (5–10 yrs with care) Good (usually nickel-free) Yes Long-lasting, looks like real gold More expensive than plated, limited designs
Solid Gold Heirloom, daily wear, investment ₹₹₹₹ High Very High (lifetime) Best option Absolutely Most durable, valuable, and doesn’t tarnish Expensive, soft in high karats (22K–24K)

Key Considerations for You

  1. Budget:
    • Low: Go for Gold-Plated
    • Medium: Choose Gold Vermeil or Gold-Filled
    • High: Invest in Solid Gold
  2. Skin Sensitivity:
    • Sensitive skin? Avoid Gold-Plated (may contain nickel).
    • Vermeil and Solid Gold are best for hypoallergenic options.
  3. Usage:
    • Daily wear? Choose Gold-Filled or Solid Gold.
    • Occasional use? Gold-Plated or Vermeil is fine.
  4. Longevity:
    • Solid Gold lasts forever.
    • Gold-Filled lasts for years with care.
    • Vermeil lasts months to a few years.
    • Gold-Plated may last only weeks to months.

Quick Recommendations

You Are… Best Option
On a tight budget, want trendy pieces Gold-Plated
Mid-budget, want quality + looks Gold Vermeil
Want durability without going solid Gold-Filled
Want luxury, heirloom, investment Solid Gold

How to Care for Gold-Plated Jewellery

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals and perfumes.

Storage Tips for Longevity

  • Store separately in a soft pouch.
  • Keep away from humidity and water.

Why 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery is Perfect for Women

Hypoallergenic & Skin-Friendly

Unlike standard gold-plated jewellery, 18K gold vermeil is safe for sensitive skin since it uses sterling silver as a base.

Luxurious Look Without the Price Tag

Women can enjoy the rich glow of 18K gold without paying the heavy price of solid gold.

KYMEE’s Elegant Collection for Women

KYMEE’s 18K gold vermeil pieces combine modern design with timeless craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking for minimal everyday styles or bold statement jewellery, KYMEE offers something for every woman who values elegance and comfort.

Conclusion

When it comes to types of gold jewellery, your choice depends on budget, lifestyle, and skin sensitivity. While gold-plated and gold-filled options are great for fashion and affordability, 18K gold vermeil stands out for its durability, elegance, and skin safety.

That’s why KYMEE’s 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery for Women is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and value, giving women the chance to shine every day without compromise.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between gold-plated and gold vermeil jewellery?
Gold vermeil uses sterling silver as a base and a thicker layer of gold, making it more durable than standard gold-plated jewellery.

2. Is 18K gold vermeil jewellery worth buying?
Yes, it offers a luxurious look, lasts longer, and is skin-friendly at a much more affordable price than solid gold.

3. Can you wear gold-plated jewellery every day?
Standard gold-plated jewellery may tarnish with daily wear, but vermeil and gold-filled options are more suitable.

4. How should you store gold vermeil jewellery?
Keep it in a soft pouch or jewellery box, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

5. What makes KYMEE’s 18K gold vermeil jewellery unique?
KYMEE blends premium 18K gold vermeil plating with elegant, versatile designs for modern women.

6. Which type of gold jewellery is best for sensitive skin?
18K gold vermeil and solid gold are the best choices for sensitive skin.