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Solid Gold vs Gold-Filled vs Vermeil
The word “gold” covers very different products. Here is how the main types compare for earrings you will wear often.
Comparison
| Solid gold | Gold-filled | Vermeil | Plated | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold content | Throughout | Thick bonded layer | Plating over silver | Thin plating |
| Longevity | Lifetime | Years | Months to years | Weeks to months with daily wear |
| Can be polished | Yes | Gently | Gently | Rarely |
| Sensitive ears | Usually good (14k+) | Usually good | Depends on silver and plating | Base metal may irritate |
| Relative price | Highest | Middle | Middle | Lowest |
Which to choose
- For hoops you will wear daily for years: solid 14k gold.
- For a lower budget with good wear: gold-filled.
- For trend pieces worn occasionally: vermeil or plated.
Compare 14k solid gold hoops and check the material description on the merchant page.