I’ve been receiving a lot of questions lately about gold vermeil—how it stands out from gold-plated jewellery and the best ways to care for these stunning pieces. 

At AJOSEPO, we believe in crafting jewellery that lasts, which is why all our gold-coloured jewellery is crafted exclusively from recycled 18k gold vermeil. When I founded AJOSEPO, I wanted our signature pieces to shine brightly and withstand the test of time. Plus, all our jewellery is nickel-free and hypoallergenic, making it safe for even the most sensitive skin.

To help you better appreciate and care for your gold vermeil treasures, I’ve outlined the key differences between gold-plated and gold vermeil jewellery, along with some handy care tips. Let's dive in!

Love, Tofi Caroline xx

What Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Mean? 
Gold-plated jewellery mimics the appearance of gold but is made from a base metal, such as brass or copper, which is coated with a thin layer of gold, typically measuring 0.5 microns. This coating is achieved through electroplating, where an electric current binds the gold atoms to the base metal.

Manufacturers find gold-plated jewellery to be relatively inexpensive to produce, making it a popular choice for trendy, seasonal items that are not intended to be passed down as heirlooms. However, the gold plating can wear off quickly, particularly when exposed to moisture. Furthermore, gold-plated jewellery may cause skin irritation and can leave stains on clothing, skin, and other jewellery.

What Does Gold Vermeil Jewellery Mean? 
Gold vermeil is a highly regulated term commonly used in the production of fine jewellery. It refers to jewellery made by applying a thick layer of 18k solid gold, measuring 2.5 microns, onto a sterling silver base. This process results in a durable and long-lasting finish.

The main advantage of gold vermeil is that it provides the appearance and feel of solid gold jewellery at a more affordable price. Compared to gold plating, gold vermeil is of superior quality and is hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause allergic reactions.

At AJOSEPO, we take pride in our gold vermeil pieces, which consist of a thick layer of 18k solid gold applied to a sterling silver base. This results in a finish that is five times thicker and more durable than average gold-plated jewellery.

Why Should I Choose Gold Vermeil Over 0.5-Micron Gold-Plated Jewellery? 
For safety reasons, 0.5-micron gold-plated jewellery can leave stains on your clothes, skin, and other jewellery pieces. Additionally, it is not hypoallergenic, which means it may cause allergies and skin irritations. In contrast, Gold Vermeil jewellery is hypoallergenic, making it less likely to trigger allergies or irritations. It is also crafted from higher-quality materials.

Our Gold Vermeil pieces are made from high-quality 18k solid gold, layered with 2.5 microns on top of 925 sterling silver, which enhances durability. With a thickness of 2.5 microns, you can be confident that our Gold Vermeil jewellery will last for a long time.

How Do I Take Care of My Gold Vermeil Jewellery? 
Taking care of your gold vermeil jewellery is essential to keep it looking stunning for years to come! Here are some simple and effective tips to help you maintain its beauty:

Handle with Care: Be gentle! Avoid activities that might scratch your jewellery, as we want it to shine brightly.

Remove Before Activities: For optimal care, take off your pieces before exercising, showering, swimming, or washing your hands. This helps protect them from potential damage.

Skip the Sprays: Before applying lotions, cosmetics, oils, or perfumes, ensure your jewellery is safely tucked away. Direct contact with these products can dull their lustre.

Smart Storage: When you’re not wearing your jewellery, place it in the bag provided with your order and store it in a cool, dry spot. Avoid humid areas like bathrooms to prevent tarnishing.

Keep It Sparkling: To maintain that gorgeous shine, gently polish your pieces with the soft microfiber cloth in your order. Regular polishing helps prevent tarnish and keeps your jewellery looking fresh!

Organise Your AJOSEPO Signatures: To avoid scratches and maintain their brilliant polish, store your AJOSEPO signatures separately in the jewellery bag.

With these simple steps, your gold vermeil jewellery will continue to dazzle and turn heads wherever you go!