Gold-filled jewelry is becoming increasingly popular, but you wouldn't be alone if you found yourself asking 'what it is and how it’s made?'.
Don't worry, I've got you ;). In this post we’ll explore the world of gold-filled jewelry, its beneficial qualities, and the process behind how it's actually made.
What is gold-filled jewelry?
Gold-filled jewelry, also known as rolled gold or gold overlay, is a type of jewelry that is composed of a thick layer of gold that is mechanically bonded to a base metal. This type of jewelry is not to be confused with gold-plated jewelry, which is created by coating a thin layer of gold onto a base metal. Gold-filled jewelry is made with a much thicker layer of gold, which means it is more durable and long-lasting than gold-plated jewelry.
How is it made?
Gold-filled jewelry is created through a complex process that involves mechanical bonding and heat. The process begins by taking a base metal, usually brass, and forming it into the desired shape. The metal is then cleaned and coated with a thin layer of gold, which is bonded to the base metal through a mechanical process.
To create the thick layer of gold that characterizes gold-filled jewelry, a heat and pressure bonding process is used. The gold and base metal are layered together and then passed through a roller that applies heat and pressure to fuse the two metals together. This process is repeated multiple times to create a layer of gold that is at least 5% of the total weight of the piece of jewelry. If the layer is not at least 5%, you cannot call a jewelry piece gold-filled.
So what are the benefits of gold-filled jewelry?
One of the primary benefits of gold-filled jewelry is its durability. Since the gold is mechanically bonded to the base metal, it is much more resistant to wear and tear than other types of jewelry, and means you can wear your pieces in the shower - I think this is by far the best thing about gold-filled jewelry! Additionally, the thick layer of gold means that gold-filled jewelry maintains its luster and shine for a longer period of time.
Gold-filled jewelry is also a more affordable option than solid gold jewelry. While solid gold jewelry is made entirely of gold, as we know gold-filled jewelry uses only a layer of gold, which makes it a more cost-effective option for those who want the look and feel of solid gold jewelry without the high price tag - cha-ching!
It's no wonder that gold-filled jewelry is a popular and affordable option these days. With its durability, luster, and affordability, gold-filled jewelry is an excellent choice for those who want to add a touch of elegance to their wardrobe without breaking the bank.