Gold Vermeil is a thick layer of real gold on 925 sterling silver. It looks like gold jewelry, is skin-friendly and significantly more durable than thinly gold-plated brass. Nevertheless, it remains a coating – but with the right care, it will last for many years.
What makes Gold Vermeil special
Unlike simply gold-plated jewelry, the gold layer is on precious metal and is significantly thicker. You can find the detailed comparison under Gold jewelry or gold-plated jewelry.
Daily care
- Put on last: Put on only after perfume, cream, and hairspray.
- No water: Take off before showering, bathing, swimming, and going to the sauna. Chlorine and salt water attack the gold layer.
- No sports: Sweat and friction wear down the surface.
- Take off during housework: Cleaning agents are aggressive.
How to properly clean Gold Vermeil
- After wearing, wipe with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- If necessary, briefly dip in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap.
- Clean gently with your fingers or a very soft brush.
- Rinse with clear water and immediately pat thoroughly dry.
Do not use: Silver polishing cloths, silver dip baths, toothpaste, abrasive cleaners, and ultrasonic cleaners. They wear down the gold layer. For pieces with pearls, the following also applies: never dip the pearl in water, only wipe it.
Proper storage
- Individually in a soft pouch, so that nothing gets scratched.
- Dry and as airtight as possible – this also prevents the silver underneath from tarnishing.
- Do not store together with hard stones or chains in a bowl.
More tips under Storing jewelry.
If the gold layer wears down
After many years of intensive wear, the silver may show through in heavily stressed areas. This is no reason to put the piece away: A goldsmith can have Vermeil jewelry re-plated. This way, your favorite piece is preserved.
Our Gold Vermeil pieces
For example, the Pearl hoops in 24K Gold Vermeil, the large 13 mm pearl stud earrings, the Baroque pearl earrings, the ear clips, as well as the double-row and large baroque pearl bracelets. For solid gold jewelry, there is a separate guide: Properly cleaning gold jewelry.