Gold vermeil is a high-quality type of gold-plated jewelry made by coating a base of sterling silver with a thick layer of gold. Specifically, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick, which is about five times thicker than standard gold plating, making it more durable and long-lasting

. Key characteristics of gold vermeil include:

• Base Metal: Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver), which provides strength and durability

• Gold Layer: A thick gold plating, usually at least 10 karats gold, applied via an electroplating process that bonds the gold to the silver base

• Durability: The thicker gold layer and sterling silver base make vermeil jewelry more resistant to tarnishing and wear compared to typical gold-plated pieces, which often use cheaper base metals like brass and have thinner gold layers (less than 1 micron)

The term "vermeil" originates from a French technique historically used to describe gilded silver, and today it differentiates superior gold-coated silver jewelry from standard gold-plated items

. In summary, gold vermeil jewelry offers a luxurious look similar to solid gold but at a more affordable price point, combining the beauty of gold with the durability of sterling silver underneath