# Gold plated, gold filled, vermeil and solid gold: differences

> Differences between solid gold, vermeil, gold filled and gold plated: gold layer, durability, price and which to choose for everyday wear.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/gold-plated-filled-vermeil-and-solid/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-08-26
- Updated: 2026-08-26
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/oro-chapado-laminado-vermeil-y-macizo/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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They are four different things, and names vary by country. The difference lies in how much gold there is and over which metal.

## Solid gold

A gold alloy (14K, 18K…) throughout the piece. It does not wear off or lose a layer; it is the most durable and the most expensive.

## Vermeil

A thick layer of gold over **sterling silver**. In the US, the standard requires a layer at least 2.5 microns thick of 10K gold or better. It lasts longer than plating but still wears with use.

## Gold filled

A layer of gold bonded to a base metal with heat and pressure; in the US it must be at least 5% of the total weight. It is much thicker than plating and can last years of daily wear.

## Gold plated

A very thin layer of gold deposited by electrolysis over another metal. It is the cheapest and the one that wears off first.

## Beware of names

In some countries “gold laminated” is used for different things. Ask about the layer thickness and the base metal, and check the stamp for “GF”, “GP”, “EP” or “vermeil”.

## See also

- [14 karat or 18 karat gold: differences and which to choose](https://www.711grados.com/en/14k-vs-18k-gold/)
- [Jewelry hallmarks and stamps: what 925, 750 or 585 mean](https://www.711grados.com/en/jewelry-hallmarks-and-stamps/)
- [Jewelry that does not tarnish or stain: which materials to choose](https://www.711grados.com/en/jewelry-that-does-not-tarnish/)