If you love gold jewelry but don’t have the budget for solid gold, consider gold vermeil jewelry. It’s more affordable but made to last. What is gold vermeil? Where can you buy it? And what are the current gold jewelry trends? All of the answers are in this post…
If you love gold jewelry but don’t have the budget for solid gold, consider gold vermeil jewelry. It’s more affordable but made to last. What is gold vermeil? Where can you buy it? And what are the current gold jewelry trends? All of the answers are in this post…
What Is Gold Vermeil Jewelry?
Gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) is gold electroplated onto sterling silver. It’s thicker (1.0-2.5 microns) than gold plating (usually 0.05 microns onto copper or brass), so it’s more durable. The gold in gold vermeil jewelry can be 18K (75% gold) or 14K (58.3% gold). Pure gold (24K) is often considered to be too soft for jewelry, which is why you mostly see 18K and 14K. Gold vermeil can be white or yellow gold.
If you’re looking for affordable jewelry that is better quality than gold-plated styles, then take a look at these gold vermeil options.
Brands That Make Gold Vermeil Jewelry
There are quite a few jewelry designers that make gold vermeil pieces. Here are some of my favorites:
Monica Vinader
Monica Vinader is a jewelry designer based in the U.K. who uses recycled metals and sustainably sources gems to make handmade jewelry. Most of her styles have organic shapes (as opposed to perfect geometric shapes). In the U.S. you can find her jewelry at the Soho store in NYC or at various Nordstrom stores.
Seyahan
Seyahan jewelry is inspired by Turkish craftsmanship so it you’ll find more intricate designs like their Gold Filigree Triple Drop Earrings. If you’re looking for a gift for an animal lover, then take a look at their Bella Sea Turtle Necklace – 75% of the profits from this style supports the Sea Turtle Rescue Center in South Carolina. My daughter received one as a gift and it’s just precious!
You can buy Seyahan jewelry at their store in Charleston, South Carolina, on their website or at Wolf & Badger (U.K. based retailer that ships to the U.S)
Kendra Scott
Kendra Scott, is based in Austin Texas, and makes classic affordable styles. Her Ari Heart Pendant would make a sweet birthday, anniversary or holiday gift. For an all-in-one layered look, take a look at the Harper Double Strand Necklace.
Where Else To Find Gold Vermeil Jewelry
You’ll find more gold vermeil options at department stores like Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, and Saks Fifth Avenue. For extra savings, try Saks Off Fifth or Nordstrom Rack.
What Jewelry Styles Are Trending?
Since jewelry is meant to last, I always rely on personal taste before trends. But if you’re buying something new, and want to consider trends, here are a few ideas:
- Cuffs
- Pearls
- Fringe
- Floral shapes
- Tennis bracelets, earrings, and necklaces
- Colorful gems
- Chokers
- Statement pieces