5 dark secrets to know before you buy gold filled jewellery.

Read more about, or you might regret your next purchase.

Gold filled jewellery is a popular choice for those who want the look and feel of gold without the high price tag. However, it’s essential to be cautious when purchasing gold filled pieces, as there are several factors to consider to ensure you’re getting a quality product. Here’s what you need to know about gold filled jewellery and the potential issues to be aware of.

What is Gold Filled Jewellery?

Gold filled jewellery consists of a solid layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal, typically brass. The gold layer must make up at least 5% of the item’s total weight. This process results in a piece that is more durable and longer-lasting than gold plated jewellery, which has a much thinner gold coating.

Dark secret number one:

Misleading Marketing: Some sellers might misrepresent gold plated or gold vermeil as gold filled. It’s crucial to verify the product specifications and ensure it’s genuinely gold filled. Many pieces marketed as gold filled do not meet the required 5% gold content and are merely gold plated, lacking the bonded gold layer.

Dark secret number two:

Quality Variations: Not all gold filled jewellery is created equal. Some manufacturers may use lower quality materials or thinner layers of gold, which can affect the durability and appearance of the piece.

Dark secret number three:

Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to the base metals used in gold filled jewellery. Base metal under the gold layer is frequently of not a very good quality and may contain allergens or chemicals that could cause allergic reaction.

Dark secret number four:

Value for money: Price of gold-filled jewellery is usually not justified, as you mostly buy brass for the price. Solid gold pieces are usually 3-5 times more expensive but have 20 times more gold in them.

Dark secret number five:

Lack of hallmarks: Authentic gold-filled jewellery should be marked with a designation such as "GF" or "1/20 14K GF," indicating the gold content and layer thickness. If there is no hallmark, it is probably just plated, and not gold filled.

By being aware of these potential issues and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy the beauty and affordability of gold filled jewellery without the drawbacks. Always make informed decisions and invest in pieces that are crafted with care and integrity.