Why More People Are Choosing Gold Vermeil Over Gold Plating — What’s the Difference?

When you shop for gold jewelry, you’ll often see terms like “gold plated” and “gold vermeil.” At first glance, they might seem pretty similar, but there are actually some important differences — especially when it comes to quality, safety, and how long your jewelry lasts.

Let’s break it down in a simple way so you can feel confident about what you’re wearing.

The chart below shows the four main types of gold jewelry and how they compare:

What is Gold Plating?

Gold plating is basically a very thin layer of gold applied over another type of metal. The base metal underneath can vary a lot — sometimes it’s copper, brass, or other mixed alloys.

While this keeps the jewelry affordable, there’s a catch:

• The gold layer is very thin, so it wears off quickly, especially with daily use.

• You don’t always know what the base metal is, which can lead to skin irritation or even allergic reactions.

• Some cheaper pieces might even use materials that aren’t completely safe, which can be a concern for sensitive skin.

In short, gold plating can look beautiful at first, but it may not last long or be as safe for everyday wear.

What is Gold Vermeil?

Gold vermeil takes things to a whole new level. It’s still a layer of gold, but here’s the difference:

• The base is always sterling silver (S925) — a precious metal that’s safe, hypoallergenic, and high quality.

• The gold layer is much thicker than regular plating, which makes it more durable and longer lasting.

This means you get the look and feel of solid gold jewelry without worrying about your skin reacting badly or the gold wearing off too quickly.

Why Aurora Luna Chooses Gold Vermeil

At Aurora Luna, we believe your jewelry should be both beautiful and safe.
That’s why our pieces are either:

• Gold Vermeil over S925 sterling silver, or

• Solid silver (S925 or S999) pieces made by talented artists we collaborate with.

We take extra care to make sure every piece is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and comfortable to wear — so you can enjoy your jewelry with total peace of mind.

If you’re looking for jewelry that’s safe, beautiful, and built to last, gold vermeil is worth the upgrade. Or, if you prefer something truly one-of-a-kind, you can choose artist-crafted pieces made entirely by hand — each design carrying its own story and soul. It’s a perfect balance between luxury and practicality, giving you timeless pieces you can feel good about wearing every day.

✨ Your skin deserves the best — and so does your style. ✨