Solid gold has the same customer as gold filled. Many years as a jeweler, I have had inquiries regarding concern to skin allergies from certain metals. I am able to help curate jewelry styles for sensitive skin with 14k gold filled (not plating, I’ll explain below) for it allows me to offer top-of-the-line quality considering price efficiency versus solid gold. The thick outer layer of gold makes it extremely durable and safe for anyone with allergies or sensitive skin.

What is gold filled?

Upon a strictly regulated process, multiple layers of solid 14K (yellow or rose) gold are pressure bonded over a core of high quality jeweler’s brass. Ending up with a quality real gold product and as I say to my customers as a reassured explanation, “Wear, clean, sleep, and swim in it like gold!"

Brass core? Is it filled with gold?

"Gold filled"- why, oh why and how did the industry come up with this term? As you read above, this metal has nothing to do with being filled with gold! Let the confusion commence. Only the most important area that touches your skin is solid gold.

Is gold filled jewelry considered real gold?

While you cannot claim it as solid gold (it would be marked 14K GF or 14/20), the thick layer of solid gold that is pressure bonded onto the outer edge certainly is. As you may be aware, the price between the two greatly differ, so why not gold filled!

Will gold filled wear off?

While the amount of real gold on the outer edge may not sound like much, it is actually enough to last many years with normal wear. I have one exception where I avoid designing with gold filled and that is with rings. Rings endure a LOT of love, wear and tear, being exposed to chemicals, lotions, abrasions, etc. To ensure my jewelry is loved forever, I offer rings in sterling silver with gold accents. (And of course, solid gold, when requested.)

What is the difference between gold filled and plated?

There is a 100x more solid gold in gold filled offering longevity and durability versus plating. While gold filled is a strict legally regulated process, gold plating offers a vague and non-regulated process of adding a thinner layer over a non-disclosed base metal and can never guarantee the amount of gold present. Gold plating is a process that is dipped into a solution and zapped with an electric current and results in a thin layer of gold onto base metal that is prone to cracking or flaking. Plating is a considerable option if you are looking to wear something only a handful of times.

Is 14K gold filled good quality and will it last awhile?

It is the best option following solid gold. Gold filled jewelry can stay beautiful for a lifetime with a little love and care - it certainly will not flake off. The actual longevity will depend on how you care for it - just as with anything else.

Does gold filled tarnish?

All jewelry can tarnish or become dull due to air pollution, humidity levels, lotions or chemicals. I recommend shining with a polishing cloth and keeping it in an enclosed jewelry box or the original Rach B Jewelry tin for safekeeping.

Does gold filled contain nickel and is it okay for sensitive skin?

No, 14K gold filled jewelry doesn’t contain nickel. Most people find they have no sensitivity to gold filled jewelry since the outer layer is solid 14K gold. There are instances jewelry metals can leave a discoloration on the skin. Body chemistry is a fascinating thing and can be affected by medications, acidity levels, and even the climate (humidity!) that you live in.

As always, I am here whenever you have any questions, inquiries or requests. Email me at Rachel@ShopRachB.com

xx, Rach

Gold jewelry for sensitive skin : What is gold filled?