What is the Difference Between Gold and Gold-Plated Jewelry?

Do you want to buy gold jewelry? When you are shopping, you are likely to come across two descriptions. You are going to see jewelry described as gold or gold-plated. Many people assume they are the same thing. Later, they discover that their favorite jewelry pieces have tarnished quickly and suddenly have a lower value. How could this be?

Well, this has happened because they have confused the terms ‘gold’ and ‘gold-plated’. These are two very different types of jewelry. Let’s take a look at wah the differences are between them, so you know exactly what you are buying.

Gold Jewelry

First, let’s start with the real thing. We are talking about gold jewelry. Of course, this is going to be made from solid and pure gold. This can be in different percentages. For example, 22K gold is going to contain more pure gold than jewelry which is labeled as 14K. Check out Queen of Hearts if you want to buy 22-karat gold jewelry that is authentic and luxurious. You can enjoy peace of mind and know you are getting the real thing.

Solid gold jewelry has a beautiful sparkle and shine that is classy and quality. It does not tarnish, but you want to choose a high karat so that the other metals used are at a minimum. They are the material that will cause tarnishing, so the lower the number the better your jewelry will be.

Gold is categorized as a soft metal. But, there is still a decent amount of durability from an item. You should be careful and take care of this material so that it remains at its best. This means storing it in a soft pouch where it cannot scratch against other materials. In addition, it should be kept away from direct sunlight, as well as water, lotions and perfume.

Note that gold jewelry will have a higher price tag than gold-plated jewelry. Of course, this is due to being made from solid gold. The higher the karat, the more money you can expect to pay. But, at the same time, you are going to get your hands on a luxurious material that often holds its value.

Gold-Plated Jewelry

Next, let’s consider what gold-plated jewelry is. Simply, this is jewelry that is made from metals or alloys and then is covered in gold. So, it appears as if it is gold. But this is not what is in the middle. Thus, the plating can make jewelry appear as if it is real gold. Yet, this is not the case. 

Indeed, there are many people that can be frustrated with this type of jewelry. They class it as fake jewelry and feel like they have been ripped off. But, there are some advantages of gold-plated jewelry that you should be aware of. For example, this can often mean you enjoy the look of gold, but it does not have the same price tag. So, items tend to be more affordable.

What’s more, gold-plated jewelry is going to be stronger and more durable than real gold. This is due to being made from other metals. So, if you are looking for resilient pieces that you can wear every day, this can be an option. You will not have to worry about it being scratched or bending easily.

Of course, if you are looking for real gold, you have to be aware that something labeled gold-plated is not it. Indeed, this type of item will tarnish over time and there are quality differences you will realize.

What is the Main Difference?

The real difference between gold jewelry and gold-plated jewelry is that the former is made from solid and pure gold. This is compared to gold-plated, which is made from another material and simply covered in gold. Gold jewelry will have a higher price tag and require more care. Gold-plated jewelry is more affordable and durable.