What is gold filled?

With so many metal options when it comes to jewellery, how do you know if what you are buying is quality?

When starting this journey with Orïelle, the primary goal was to create beautiful, genuine jewellery that not only exuded elegance and style but was also affordable for a wide range of customers. I envisioned pieces that could withstand the rigours of daily wear, ensuring that customers could cherish their jewellery for years to come without compromising on quality or aesthetics. This commitment to durability and affordability was essential in the design philosophy, as I wanted to make luxury accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget.

As I embarked on this exciting venture, I began testing various metals to find the perfect combination that would meet my standards. It quickly became apparent that not all "tarnish-free" jewellery was created equally. Some materials advertised as tarnish-resistant fell short in terms of longevity and appearance, while others performed exceptionally well but at a higher price point. Through extensive research and rigorous testing, I discovered that the composition and treatment of the metals played a crucial role in their durability and resistance to tarnishing.

I explored a range of options, to ensure that all Orïelle jewellery could maintain its shine and beauty over time. Each metal I tested revealed unique characteristics and challenges, prompting me to refine the selection process. My goal was to strike a balance between affordability and the quality that all customers deserved. I wanted to ensure that each piece of jewellery not only looked stunning when first worn but also retained its luster even after years of daily use.

Ultimately, the dedication to finding the best materials led me to a collection of metals that I am proud to offer. Each piece is crafted with care, designed to be both beautiful and resilient, allowing customers to enjoy their jewellery without the worry of wear and tear. This journey has not only deepened my understanding of jewellery making but also reinforced my commitment to providing accessible luxury that stands the test of time.

Thanks to this process, all Orïelle jewellery is crafted exclusively from high-quality materials, ensuring that every piece is made using either 925 sterling silver, gold filled, or 9ct solid gold. This commitment to excellence not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the jewellery but also guarantees its durability and longevity. Gold Fill is recognized as the closest alternative to solid gold without the hefty price tag associated with solid gold pieces. Unlike gold-plated or gold vermeil jewellery, which often utilizes a superficial coating, gold fill is produced through a specialised process known as pressure and heat bonding. This innovative technique involves melting a thick layer of gold and applying it under high pressure onto a base metal, resulting in a product that is not only stunningly beautiful but also extremely durable and highly resistant to tarnishing. This durability is a significant advantage for those who wear their jewellery daily, as it maintains its luster and integrity over time, making it a wise investment for any jewellery lover.

In contrast, gold plated or gold vermeil jewellery relies on a much less robust method of application, where the gold is merely flash dipped or painted onto the surface of the base metal. This process results in a much thinner layer of gold that can easily wear away with regular use, leading to potential exposure of the underlying metal. Therefore, while gold plated and vermeil pieces may initially appear appealing, especially given they are usually the cheapest options, they do not offer the same level of durability and longevity as gold filled jewellery.

When comparing the thickness of Gold Fill to that of gold plated or vermeil jewellery, the difference is quite remarkable. Gold Fill can be up to 100% thicker than its gold plated or vermeil counterparts, providing a more substantial and luxurious feel. This thickness is crucial because it directly impacts the wearability and lifespan of the jewellery. On the other hand, gold vermeil can exhibit a wide range of thicknesses, typically varying between less than 0.1 micron and over 3 microns of electroplated gold. This variance can lead to significant differences in quality and durability, with thicker layers generally offering better resistance to wear and tear.

To be classified as Gold Filled, a piece of jewellery must contain a minimum of 1/20 of its total weight in solid gold. This specific requirement ensures that the gold layer is substantial enough to provide the benefits associated with gold filled jewellery, such as its impressive durability and tarnish resistance. As a result, customers can feel confident in their purchase, knowing that they are acquiring a high-quality piece that will stand the test of time and maintain its beauty through years of wear.

I hope this has helped with navigating your next jewellery purchase and brings confidence in understanding your options and expectations in your purchase. The world of jewellery can often feel overwhelming due to the vast array of choices available.

Furthermore, it’s important to set a budget that aligns with your financial situation while still allowing you to acquire something beautiful and meaningful. Remember that jewellery can also carry emotional significance, so take your time to select a piece that resonates with you personally or that you believe will bring joy to the recipient if it’s a gift.

If you have any questions about the jewellery buying process, I am always happy to talk all things jewellery and would love to hear from you! Whether you’re curious about the latest trends, need advice on caring for your jewellery, or want to know more about the history and symbolism behind certain pieces, I am here to provide guidance and support. Your journey into the world of jewellery should be enjoyable and fulfilling, and I look forward to assisting you in finding the perfect piece that you will cherish for years to come.

With love,

Olivia

Orïelle The Label

oriellethelabel@gmail.com www.oriellethelabel.com.au