Gold Plated Jewellery Components – Vermeil, PVD and E-coating Explained
Gold-coloured jewellery components look the same in the webshop, but the base material and the plating method determine both price and durability. Here are the types you'll find with us, and what you can promise your customers about each.
How to make gold plating last longer
Same Model in Two Colours: Most of our basic components are available in both silver and gold colours, so a collection can be released in both.
Clear Labelling: Products are labelled with material and plating, so you know what you are reselling.
1-2 Day Delivery: In-stock items are typically dispatched the same day. Shipping 39 kr. in Denmark – free over 399 kr.
Gold plating is a coating – not solid gold
Regardless of type, it’s a layer of gold on top of another metal. None of these are solid gold, and no plating lasts forever. This isn't a weakness to hide – it's information that creates satisfied customers and fewer complaints.
What wears down the plating the most
- Friction: rings and bracelets wear faster than earrings and pendants.
- Perfume, hairspray, hand sanitiser, and cream – put jewellery on last.
- Chlorinated water and saltwater.
- Polishing cloths with abrasives: these will remove the gold. Instead, wipe with a soft, dry cloth.
What can you call it?
Gold-plated sterling silver can be sold as silver jewellery because the base is genuine 925 silver. Gold-plated steel and gold-plated brass are not precious metals and must not be marketed as gold or silver. State the material and plating in the product description – it's both accurate and great for conversion.
Waterproof or not?
PVD gold-plated steel is the most robust option if the jewellery needs to be worn in water. We mark relevant items as waterproof so you can filter by them. Vermeil and gold-plated brass can also tolerate contact with water, but the colour lasts best if the jewellery is removed first.
FAQ
How long does plating last?
This depends on use. Earrings and pendants that do not rub against anything last significantly longer than rings and bracelets. PVD-plated steel is the most durable option we offer.
Can plated components be polished?
No, not with silver polish or abrasive polishing cloths – this will remove the gold layer. Use a dry, soft cloth.
What is e-coating?
A thin, clear lacquer applied electrolytically over the metal. It protects against tarnishing and maintains a consistent colour, and is used on several of our gold-plated sterling silver components, among others.
Does gold-plated sterling silver tarnish?
The gold layer itself does not tarnish, but the silver may tarnish at edges and in places where the plating has worn through.