Gold filled is your best alternative to solid gold. It's a fabulous product constructed of multiple layers of solid gold (Olaeda uses 14k), heat bonded over jewelers brass. Gold-filled comes in only sheet or wire form. It is highly suitable for everyday wear, and with the proper care, gold-filled jewelry can last for a long time. We only use the best quality gold filled, made in the USA. Beware of products marked 18k gold filled as they are not made this way and yield more of a plated product.

Gold filled a layered product constructed in either two or three layers of solid gold with a core made from jewelers brass. The gold alloy is bonded to both surfaces of the brass core with heat and pressure. This process makes the product extremely durable compared to its gold plated counterparts. The bonded raw material is sold as a sheet or wire to jewelry manufacturers for use in designs. Because of this process, gold filled cannot be cast (a process where a mould is made and then molten metal is poured into the mould). This makes the product unique but also with limitations.

Yes, gold-filled jewelry supplies are legally required to be 5% or 1/20 gold by weight. This 5% is described by the karatage of the gold alloy on the surface. Most material is 12k or 14k gold-filled. (Olaeda only works with 14k).

It is most accurately labeled with the karatage, the "/" symbol, and then 20 to reflect this construction. Products are identified as 14/20 or 12/20 Gold-Filled; alternatively, l4k or12k Gold-Filled are also acceptable as long as you use the entire phrase. Quality stamps are abbreviated to 14/20 GF or 12/20 GE. Some smaller hand-made pieces may not be marked if they are made using sheets or wire. (such as findings, some rings and bails)

We only use .925 sterling silver; we do not use silver filled. Although silver filled is less expensive, we prefer the quality of sterling silver as there are many more possibilities with design. Rose gold is a beautiful metal; believe it or not it is more expensive than solid gold! For this reason, we offer a very small selection of 14k rose gold filled pieces. The manufacturing process is the same as gold filled and this provides an affordable alternative so solid rose gold.

Gold Vermeil (Ver-may) is a completely different product. It is sterling silver, plated with a layer of gold. In the USA there are strict criteria around the production of gold vermeil. The gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick and a minimum of 10k gold.

There is quite a big difference actually. Due to the special construction of gold filled, the product is much more durable and long lasting than anything plated. Unfortunately, plated items are made by casting and then flash dipping resulting in a minuscule layer of gold. Therefore, over a short period of time (with regular wear and tear) the gold will diminish. The base metal underneath will appear, and you will no longer be able to enjoy your once gold looking piece.