You’ll no doubt have seen our product descriptions mention the words Gold Filled and wondered what it actually is. I’ve had quite a few emails and DM’s asking me to explain so I thought I’d put it all together in a blog post. I know, I’m super thoughtful 😁 I also like to share with everyone what a massive nerd I am when it comes to this sort of stuff 😂
The Basics…
We're about to get to the nitty gritty of Gold Filled jewellery. Gold Filled jewellery has a thick layer of solid gold on top of a base metal. The Karat of gold used is usually 14k and legally needs to be a minimum of 5% of the final product weight. Most Gold Filled jewellery is between 5 and 100 microns - It doesn’t sound like much, but when you put it in comparison with plated jewellery, you’ll soon understand why Gold Filled is loads better.
You see, regular gold plated jewellery usually only has somewhere between 0.25 to 0.50 microns, meaning Gold Filled jewellery has at least 100 times more gold than basic plated jewellery. So when I say it’s a thick layer, I mean it’s thiiiick 👀 It also means that Gold Filled is much better value - No one wants to spend their hard earned money on 0.25 microns of gold when they can have up to 100 for the same cost.
How’s it made?
The gold alloy is mechanically bonded to a base metal such as brass or sterling silver.
A layer of solid gold, usually a gold sheet, is wrapped around the base metal, and a ton of heat and pressure is applied so that the gold is then fused to that base metal. This means the gold layer is much thicker and far more long lasting and durable than plated jewellery, which is usually only “dipped” in diluted gold particles (a process called electroplating – I’ll do a separate geek-out blog post about this another time!)
So why should I choose Gold Filled?
Gold Filled jewellery has the same desirable qualities and look of solid gold, but it is far more affordable. The benefits are that gold filled pieces won’t tarnish, flake off, or turn you Hulk-green halfway through the day. Gold Filled jewellery is built to last and will always out-perform anything plated.
Because of this, gold Filled jewellery is generally classed as “lifetime” jewellery if cared for properly. We’ve put together a handy guide on how to care for your jewellery to get the most out of it.
What if I have metal allergies?
As the layer of gold is at least 100 times thicker than gold plated, those with sensitive skin can wear Gold Filled jewellery without worries of an allergic reaction. Bini Chohan jewellery is hypo-allergenic, meaning you are very unlikely to experience any skin irritation when wearing our pieces. Simply put: Gold Filled jewellery is for everyone and you don’t have to miss out on the Golden goodness!
So basically...
Gold Filled jewellery is a waaay better economic and sustainable option than gold plated – You’re literally getting more gold for your money. Some brands are happy to charge you upwards of £60.00 for a pair of gold plated earrings that will end up in the bin within a few months (if not sooner), but here at Bini Chohan we pride ourselves on fair pricing for quality jewellery that can last you a lifetime.
You’re also doing your bit for the planet too, because Bini Chohan pieces last longer, there’s less going to land fill! You're basically a super hero, and you know what goes well with a cape? Jewellery! 👀😁🤣
So if you’re new to Gold Filled jewellery, give it a try with 10% off your first order using code BINI10 at the checkout. You won’t be disappointed ❤
Until next time...
Love,
Bini xx