What is the difference between gold plated, fine gold plated and gold plated?
Have you come across a “gold-plated” piece of jewelry and another “gilded with fine gold”, and you are wondering what the difference is?
This is normal: these terms are similar, but they hide very different processes.
Come on, we'll simply explain to you what you need to know before you give in.
Gold plated: elegance that lasts
It is the noblest finish among costume jewelry.
A gold-plated piece of jewelry is covered with a real layer of gold, applied to a metal such as brass or silver.
In France, it is necessary at least 3 microns of 750/000 gold (18 carats) so that a piece of jewelry can be called “gold plated”.
Result ? A beautiful warm color, a shine that lasts over time, and a jewel that stands up well to everyday life.
💡 At Azuline, all our gold-plated jewelry is guaranteed 750/000 gold, nickel-free and suitable for all skin types. And for a shine that lasts, they are finished with a tinting in a 980/000 gold bath, guarantee of shine and protection.
Gold to fine gold: the luminous touch
Here we are talking about a layer of gold much finer, often between 0.3 and 1 micron.
The result is very pretty, very luminous, but the gilding fades more quickly over time — especially if you wear the jewelry every day.
This is the perfect choice if you like to change your jewelry often, or if you are looking for a light and trendy piece at a low price.
💬 Just remember to remove them before showering or swimming — your jewelry will thank you!
Golden jewelry: the gold effect without gold
When a piece of jewelry is simply rated “golden”, this often means… that it contains no gold at all.
We are then talking about a metal (like steel or brass) covered with a golden hue by a chemical process or varnish.
It’s pretty, it’s fashionable, and it’s perfect for having fun with styles.
But the color can fade very quickly – that’s the other side of the coin.
How to properly maintain your jewelry?
A few simple actions are enough to prolong their shine:
- Gold plated : avoid perfumes, wipe it after use with a soft cloth.
- Gilded with fine gold : wear it preferably on dry skin, without cream or perfume.
- Golden : keep it away from moisture when you are not wearing it.
And above all: store them separately to prevent them from scratching each other
In summary
| Type of gilding | Gold content | Thickness | Holds over time | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold plated | Real gold 750/000 | ≥ 3 microns | 🌟🌟🌟 Excellent | 💎💎 |
| Gilded with fine gold | Real gold 750/000 | 0.3 to 1 micron | 🌟🌟 Average | 💎 |
| Golden | No gold | - | 🌟 Low | 💰 |
In conclusion
The choice depends above all on your use and of your desires.
If you are looking for a piece of jewelry that crosses the seasons without losing its shine, the gold plated remains the safe bet: durable, elegant and dazzling like solid gold, but at a low price ✨
The gilded with fine gold will be perfect for light pieces or to wear occasionally, while the golden remains a simple option to follow current trends.
💛 And if you want to discover our 750/000 gold plated jewelry, made with care and designed to last, it’s here 👉
