When shopping for gold jewellery, you may come across terms like 'gold vermeil' and 'gold plated' or 'PVD gold'. Both offer a beautiful golden finish at a fraction of the cost of solid gold, but they have key differences in durability, composition, and how they age over time. If you’re wondering which is best for you, let’s break it down!
What is Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) is a high-quality jewellery finish made by coating sterling silver with a thick layer of gold. To be legally called vermeil, the gold must be at least 2.5 microns thick and a minimum of 10 karats, though many brands (including ours) use 14k or 18k for a richer colour.
Pros of Gold Vermeil:
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Luxurious look & feel: Because it’s layered over sterling silver, it has a weight and finish similar to solid gold. The precious metals used make this type of jewellery heirloom quality!
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Hypoallergenic: Ideal for sensitive skin as it contains no base metals like nickel or brass.
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Re-plating potential: Over time, the gold layer may wear, but it can be easily re-plated to restore its original shine.
Cons of Gold Vermeil:
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Requires care: Perfumes, lotions, and even sweat can cause gold vermeil to fade over time, so it’s best removed before showering or swimming.
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Not as hard-wearing: While it lasts well with proper care, heavy daily wear can cause the gold layer to wear down faster.
What is PVD Gold?
PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) is a modern coating process where gold particles are vapourised and bonded onto a base metal (usually stainless steel). This results in an ultra-thin yet extremely durable gold-coloured layer. This is the process used by our guest brand Agapee.
Pros of PVD Gold:
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Highly durable: PVD coatings are extremely resistant to scratches, tarnishing, and fading, making them great for everyday wear.
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Water & sweat resistant: PVD jewellery can withstand exposure to moisture, making it ideal for active lifestyles.
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Affordable: Because it’s often applied over stainless steel, it can be a more budget-friendly option compared to vermeil.
Cons of PVD Gold:
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Non-repairable finish: Unlike gold vermeil, PVD coatings cannot be re-plated. If the finish wears or chips, it cannot be restored.
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Less precious metal content: PVD jewellery may not have the same intrinsic value as gold vermeil since it isn’t layered over sterling silver. This isn't heirloom quality jewellery.
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May contain base metals: Depending on the jewellery piece, the underlying metal may contain a small amount of nickel or other alloys, which could be an issue for sensitive skin.
Which One is Right for You?
Your choice depends on how you plan to wear your jewellery!
Choose gold vermeil if…
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You love the feel and value of precious metals (since it’s layered over sterling silver).
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You want a piece that can be restored over time rather than replaced.
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You have sensitive skin and need a hypoallergenic option.
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You’re looking for a more traditional fine jewellery finish.
Choose PVD gold plating if…
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You need jewellery that can handle exposure to water, sweat, or everyday wear.
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You prefer low-maintenance jewellery that doesn’t require special care.
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You want a more affordable gold-look option for trend-led pieces.
The Good News About Gold Vermeil: It Can Be Re-plated!
One of the biggest advantages of gold vermeil is that it can be brought back to life through re-plating. If your favourite gold vermeil ring or necklace starts to show signs of wear, you can have it professionally re-plated to restore its golden glow. This makes it a sustainable and long-lasting choice for jewellery lovers who prefer to invest in timeless pieces rather than replace them. If you have a Lauren Hunt Jewellery piece that needs a little love, just get in touch!
Final Thoughts
Both gold vermeil and PVD gold have their place in the jewellery world. Gold vermeil offers a more traditional, fine-jewellery experience, while PVD is a great option for those who want ultra-durable, low-maintenance pieces. Whichever you choose, knowing the differences will help you make the best decision for your lifestyle and jewellery collection.
Do you have a favourite? Let us know in the comments or explore our collection to find the perfect finish for you!