Gold, gold-filled or gold-plated: Which do you choose?
Are you torn between 9 karat, 14 karat, goldfilled or gold plated? Not all 'gold' jewellery is the same. In this handy guide, I'll explain the differences so you can make the smartest choice for your style and your wallet.
The secret of karat: Why pure gold is too soft
Pure gold (24 karat) is beautiful in colour, but on its own, it is far too soft to make jewellery from. It would scratch or bend in no time. That's why we mix pure gold with other metals, such as copper or silver. This creates a strong alloy. The number of 'karats' tells you exactly how much pure gold is in your jewellery.
9 Karat Gold (9kt): The smart, affordable luxury
Are you on a budget, but still want the unmistakable benefits of real gold? Then 9 karat is your perfect match.
- The gold content: 9kt contains 37.5% pure gold.
- The benefits: Because there are more hard metals in the alloy, 9kt gold is extremely strong and scratch-resistant. It is the perfect choice for jewellery you wear every day.
- The ultimate price trigger: The biggest benefit is the price tag. While the prices of 14k and 18k gold have risen extremely sharply in recent years, 9kt gold remains affordable. You get the luxury, durability and appearance of real gold, but at a fraction of the price of 14k or 18k. A smart investment, therefore!
14 Karat Gold (14kt) & 18 Karat Gold (18kt)
- 14kt gold consists of 58.5% pure gold. It is the traditional standard in the Netherlands: sturdy and classic in colour, but by now a considerable investment for your wallet.
- 18kt gold contains 75% pure gold. It has a deep, rich golden-yellow colour, but due to the high gold content, it is much softer, more vulnerable & very expensive.
The alternatives: What is goldfilled and gold plated?
-
✨ 9kt Solid Gold (Best value for money)
- Gold layer: Solid gold all the way through (37.5% pure).
- Durability: Never wears out and lasts for generations.
- Price range: Affordable luxury.
-
🌟 14kt Goldfilled
- Gold layer: Thick gold layer mechanically pressed under high pressure.
- Durability: Does not peel off and lasts for decades with normal use.
- Price range: Accessible mid-range.
-
💫 Gold Plated
- Gold layer: Paper-thin layer of gold applied chemically.
- Durability: Unfortunately wears off quickly with daily use or contact with water.
- Price range: Cheap fashion product.
Gold Plated: For those who love variety
Gold-plated jewellery has an extremely thin layer of gold over another metal (often copper or silver, also known as gold vermeil). This is perfect for trendy jewellery that you don't wear every day and which usually lasts one or two seasons, but not for jewellery you want to wear day in, day out.
What do you choose?
In my studio I really enjoy working with 9kt gold and 14kt Goldfilled. Why? Because I believe that high-quality, durable jewellery that lasts a lifetime should also remain affordable for you. With 9kt gold you choose the strength and the lasting value of real gold, without paying the full price of 14kt.
Are you still unsure which material best suits your lifestyle or would you like personal advice? I would love to help you think it through!
