What Is Gold-Filled Jewelery?

14kt Gold-filled is an alternative to solid gold.

Because of the fluctuating prices of solid gold, gold-filled jewelry is considered by many jewelers a better alternative than gold-plated jewelry. Gold-filled jewelry has the same look and feel of solid gold primarily because it consists of a significant weight of solid gold. By law, gold-filled jewelry is required to have one-twentieth by weight of solid gold when used for making jewelry; this improves the overall quality of the product.

Structure

Gold-filled jewelry does not peel or flake as with gold-plated jewelry.

According to Making Jewelry Now, gold-filled jewelry is made by applying an outer layer of gold either 10 carat (kt), 12 kt or 14 kt over a base metal form also known as gold wire. Heat and pressure are applied to the wire to bond the gold to the base metal, which is also gold in color. This base metal is a composite of several metals, typically, a durable brass alloy. This brass alloy is used to convert 24 kt gold into 14 kt and 14 kt into 10 kt. The exterior of the jewelry will be solid gold, thereby prohibiting the item from tarnishing like gold-plated jewelry.

Cost

Gold-filled jewelry is more affordable in comparison to solid-gold jewelry.

Gold-filled jewelry is durable and cost-efficient. It is, on average, approximately one-third to one-half the cost of solid gold jewelry.

Bottom Line

Gold-filled jewelry is a suitable alternative if you cannot afford 100 percent, solid-gold jewelry. Gold-filled jewelry is tarnish-resistant, therefore minimizing possible skin irritation other gold alternatives typically cause, particularly gold-plated jewelry. This is good for allergy sufferers, explains April Williams of "Overcome Allergies." Although gold-filled jewelry is precious enough for an heirloom piece, it can be damaged by using abrasive cleaning products or sharpened tools, according to Making Jewelry Nowe. Gold-filled jewelry should be stored in a cloth or plastic bag to avoid scratching.

References

• Overcome Allergies: The Truth About Jewelry Allergis
• Making Jewelry Now: Facts About Gold