Understanding the Differences: Solid Gold, Filled Gold, and Plated Gold Jewelry - Maldives

When it comes to purchasing gold jewelry, understanding the differences between solid gold, filled gold, and plated gold can be crucial. Each type has its unique characteristics, value, and manufacturing process, which significantly affect its price and quality.

Solid Gold Jewelry

Solid gold jewelry is made entirely of gold, except for the alloyed metals added to increase its hardness and durability. The purity of solid gold is measured in karats (K), with 24K being pure gold. Common purity levels include 18K and 22K, which offer a good balance between purity and strength. Solid gold jewelry is highly valued due to its intrinsic worth, durability, and timeless appeal. In the Maldives, Goldsteps specializes in selling exquisite solid gold jewelry, ensuring you receive only the best quality.

Filled Gold Jewelry

Filled gold jewelry, also known as gold-filled, consists of a thick layer of solid gold bonded to a base metal, such as brass. This layer must make up at least 5% of the item's total weight. Filled gold pieces are much more durable than gold-plated items and can last many years without tarnishing. Visually, filled gold looks almost identical to solid gold, making it an attractive and more affordable alternative. However, it’s important to note that filled gold is not plated; it has a substantial layer of gold, unlike plated jewelry.

Plated Gold Jewelry

Gold-plated jewelry involves applying a thin layer of gold over a base metal through an electroplating process. This layer is usually less than 0.05% of the item's total weight, making it significantly less durable than filled gold. Over time, the gold layer can wear away, revealing the base metal underneath. Plated gold jewelry is the least expensive among the three types, offering an affordable way to enjoy the look of gold without the high cost.

Key Differences

1. Composition:

   • Solid Gold: Entirely gold with alloy metals.

   • Filled Gold: Thick gold layer bonded to base metal.

   • Plated Gold: Thin gold layer electroplated onto base metal.

2. Durability:

   • Solid Gold: Highest durability and value.

   • Filled Gold: Long-lasting but less than solid gold.

   • Plated Gold: Least durable, wears away over time.

3. Cost:

   • Solid Gold: Most expensive due to high gold content.

   • Filled Gold: Less expensive than solid gold but higher quality than plated.

   • Plated Gold: Least expensive, lower quality and value.

In markets, especially online, you might see 18K or 22K gold at surprisingly low prices. This is often because these items are gold-filled or gold-plated, not solid gold. Filled gold, being more affordable yet durable, offers a middle ground, whereas gold-plated items are cheap but less valuable.

At Goldsteps in the Maldives, we pride ourselves on offering only solid gold jewelry. Our pieces are crafted to provide you with lasting beauty and value. Remember, while filled gold can mimic the appearance of solid gold, the latter’s value and longevity are unparalleled. For more information or to explore our collection, feel free to call us at 9128302.