How to Know if You Are Getting Quality Gold Jewelry Online

When you’re on the search for that new drip, you can find many items online that claim to be pieces of quality gold jewelry. How do you know if what you’re buying is legit, though? 

If you’re someone that appreciates quality jewelry, we got you. Today, we’re going to review some tips to help you decide what you want to buy 

When you’re on the search for that new drip, you can find many items online that claim to be pieces of quality gold jewelry. How do you know if what you’re buying is legit, though?

If you’re someone that appreciates quality jewelry, we got you. Today, we’re going to review some tips to help you decide what you want to buy.

Types of Gold Jewelry

The three finest types of gold jewelry are gold plated, gold vermeil, and solid gold. The difference between them depends on the amount of gold within the piece as well as any other metals that are used in the design. 

Gold Plated 

Gold plated jewelry is a type of jewelry that consists of a base metal that is coated with a thin layer of gold. The thickness of the gold can vary, but it is usually around 3 microns. 

Gold plated jewelry is a popular alternative to solid gold jewelry, as it is more affordable and still delivers that shine.  While gold plated jewelry does not contain as much gold as solid gold jewelry, it can still last for many years if it is properly cared for. 

Gold Vermeil 

If you're a jewelry lover, you've probably heard of gold vermeil. But what exactly is it? Gold vermeil refers to jewelry made from sterling silver that has been plated with gold. The gold is typically applied in a thick layer, which gives it a rich, lustrous finish. 

Gold vermeil is an excellent option if you're looking for something that has the look of gold but is more affordable than solid gold. It's also a good choice if you're allergic to nickel, as sterling silver is naturally nickel-free. Another benefit of gold vermeil is that it's durable and resistant to tarnish. With proper care, your gold vermeil jewelry will last day-in and day-out. 

Solid Gold

Last but not least, we have solid gold. This is an entire piece crafted from 100% pure gold. 

Solid gold jewelry is made with a metal that is at least 24 karats pure. It is hypoallergenic and will not rust, corrode or tarnish over time. It is stamped with a purity mark, such as 18K, 14K or 10K, to indicate the percentage of pure gold in the piece. The higher the purity mark, the more valuable the jewelry. 

Though solid gold jewelry may cost more than gold plated or vermeil, it is an investment that will last and never goes out of style. It is a perfect drip on its own and looks fresh with any pendant you may want to add to it. If you're looking for an heirloom piece or something to wear on a special day, solid gold jewelry is an excellent choice.

What Are Some Traits of Quality Gold Jewelry? 

Whether you want to rock a piece of gold plated, vermeil, or solid gold jewelry, there are some traits to look for that can help you decide if you are buying a piece that’s worth your investment. Here are some to keep in mind: 

Craftsmanship 

Does the piece you’re eyeing have a clean shine and a smooth, lustrous finish? Take a look at the gold surfaces as well as any stones that are set in the piece. If everything looks like it has been designed and crafted with care, you can be sure that you’re purchasing quality jewelry. 

When looking at the piece, look for some specific craftsmanship traits like: 

• No loose or misplaced stones 
• No scratches or dents in the metal
• Symmetrical, evenly spaced links 
• Hand set stones versus machine set
• No visible presence of glue or other adhesives 
• Clean lines with no visible soldering marks

Transparency from the Brand

Does the brand you’re shopping from offer transparency about their materials? If they are saying that you are buying a piece of gold jewelry without stating its karat rating or what types of stones are being used, you cannot guarantee what quality you’re receiving. 

Look for pieces that have a karat rating of at least 14K or 18K. These will offer a smooth and consistent finish for an even, lustrous shine that will always draw eyes wherever you go. 

Reviews from Other Customers

See what other customers have said about the pieces they’ve bought. These stories from real people who have purchased the products will help you gauge whether or not you want to add a new piece from that store to your collection. 

When reading reviews, look for consistent descriptions such as: 

• Longevity - did the piece hold up when regularly worn? 
• Craftsmanship - were they satisfied with the piece’s attention to detail? 
• Authenticity - did the product they receive match what they saw online? 
• Buying experience - did they enjoy their buying experience with the brand? 

Get Your Next Piece of Quality Gold Jewelry with GLD 

At the GLD Shop, we strive to provide that perfect drip for any fit. With a wide range of quality gold plated, vermeil, and solid gold pieces to choose from, you can always look your best and elevate your style for any occasion. 

To learn more, check out our pieces or hit us up with any questions about a piece you’re interested in.