what is gold vermeil

Vermeil, also known as “silver gilt”, refers to high quality

(pure or sterling) silver that is plated with a thin layer of gold.

Most vermeil jewelry available now is created by electroplating the silver with gold,

a chemical process that uses an electrical current to bind the two metals together.

In order to be considered as true vermeil jewelry in the US

the piece has to meet certain qualifications.

For instance, the gold on the piece needs to be at least 2.5 microns thick, and at least 10k or higher.

As vermeil jewelry is composed of two precious metals (gold and silver),

it’s usually thought of as being closer to fine jewelry and tends to fall under the category “demi-fine.