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Sterling Silver Base

Gold Vermeil

The premium jewellery standard — thick gold on sterling silver, meeting international vermeil requirements.

Thickness: 2.5 µm minimum

Specifications

Thickness Range
2.5 µm minimum (typically 2.5 – 3.0 µm)
Base Metal Requirement
Sterling silver (92.5% pure) — mandatory
Gold Content
High
Expected Wear Life
2–5 years with proper care
Industry Standard
Meets international Gold Vermeil definition
Suitable For
Fine jewellery, designer collections, retail

Overview

Gold Vermeil (pronounced 'ver-may') is a specific jewellery standard that requires a minimum 2.5 micron gold layer applied over a sterling silver base. It is the highest quality designation for gold-plated jewellery and is recognised internationally as a premium finish distinct from standard gold plating.

The term 'Gold Vermeil' has a precise legal and industry definition: the base metal must be sterling silver (92.5% pure silver), and the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick. This distinguishes it from standard gold plating, which can be applied over any base metal at any thickness.

Because sterling silver is a precious metal base, vermeil pieces have intrinsic value beyond the gold layer itself. The combination of a thick gold deposit over silver produces a piece that looks, feels, and wears like solid gold jewellery at a fraction of the cost.

Gold Vermeil is the preferred standard for fine jewellery designers who want to offer gold-look pieces at accessible price points without compromising on quality. It is also the standard required by many major retailers and marketplaces for pieces marketed as 'gold vermeil'.

At 2.5 µm minimum, vermeil plating is significantly more durable than standard plating. With proper care — avoiding prolonged water exposure, perfumes, and abrasive surfaces — vermeil jewellery can maintain its finish for several years of regular wear.

We apply vermeil plating exclusively over sterling silver. If your pieces are not already sterling silver, we can advise on whether re-plating is appropriate or whether a different thickness option would better suit your needs.

Best For

  • Fine jewellery designers and brands
  • Rings, necklaces, and bracelets on sterling silver
  • Pieces marketed as 'gold vermeil'
  • Retail collections requiring a premium standard
  • Gifts and heirloom-quality pieces
  • Customers wanting gold look with precious metal base

Not Ideal For

  • Base metal items (brass, copper) — standard or heavy plating is more appropriate
  • Watch cases and industrial applications
  • Very high-wear items like daily-worn rings (consider Heavy plating)

Available Gold & Plating Types

18ct Yellow Gold

75% pure — the standard for vermeil, rich warm colour

9ct Yellow Gold

37.5% pure — available on request for more economical vermeil runs

Rose Gold

Copper-alloy blend — warm pink hue on sterling silver, a popular vermeil option

Frequently Asked Questions

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