14k Gold-Filled | Advantages, Differences, Explanation!

Discover the world of Gold-Filled . Also known as rolled gold , this exceptional material offers the brilliance of solid gold at a much more affordable price . Durable and resistant, it rightly attracts jewelry designers around the world. And it's time to discover the reasons for its success! A true revolution in the world of jewelry, this unique material stands out from gold , gold plating and fine gold-plated jewelry . This article will reveal in detail its specificities and its many advantages. You will then understand why Gold-Filled has become the essential material for DIY costume jewelry creations .

Choose this luxurious alternative with golden highlights today , which subtly combines beauty and longevity for your jewelry.

What is Gold-Filled?

Definition

The term "gold-filled" refers to a composite material composed of two layers of metals. At its heart, a core, usually made of non-precious metal (brass), is coated with a thick layer of pure gold using a mechanical process using pressure and heat . The result? A brilliant gold finish. Unlike gold, which has only a thin coating of gold (about 0.05% of the total mass), gold-filled offers exceptional quality and durability.

To be legally considered gold-filled, a piece of jewelry must absolutely comply with regulations . It must contain at least 5% (or 1/20th) pure gold. For example, if your jewelry is marked " 1/20 14k gold filled ," this means that 1/20 of the total weight is 14-karat gold.

Please note: the gold layer of Gold-Filled is generally 14 carats , corresponding to a purity of 585 thousandths or 585/1000. However, this grade can vary between 12 carats (50% gold) and 14 carats (58.5% gold). At I-Perles, we focus on quality by using only 14k Gold Filled .

Origin

The origins of Gold Filled date back to the United States. In English-speaking countries, it is called Rolled-Gold . In French, it is often translated as " rolled gold ", although this translation is not entirely accurate, because as we have seen, Gold Filled is not composed solely of pure gold.

The uniqueness of this material lies in its manufacturing technique, which allows for a thicker layer of gold, comparable to gold plating, thus surpassing other plating options, such as fine gold-plated jewelry.

How is gold filled jewelry made?

Its manufacture is based on a process called rolling. This process involves mechanically fusing a layer of pure gold with a base metal (usually brass) using pressure and heat. Here's how the manufacturing process works:

1. A layer of pure gold is pressed against a metal base.
2. The whole thing is heated to a high temperature.
3. The whole thing is then rolled (pressed) very tightly several times between two rollers to fuse the two metals. Thanks to the malleability of gold, this process firmly joins these two layers.

Thanks to this technique, Gold Filled products have a thick layer of gold, creating the illusion that they are mostly solid gold , when in reality they are composed of an alloy with a non-precious base.

What is Solid Gold?

Solid gold, also called pure gold (24 carats, 999/1000), is gold unmixed with other metals. Its purity is symbolized by the chemical symbol "Au". However, solid gold is too malleable to be used alone. It is therefore frequently alloyed with other metals (silver, copper, platinum, palladium, etc.) to make it more durable.

This is why, in jewelry, we use alloys like 18k, 14k, 9k gold, to prevent the jewelry from deforming at the slightest shock.

Please note: What is Carat?

The karat indicates the percentage of purity of the gold
24K gold is 99.9% gold.
18K gold is composed of 75% gold (750 thousandths or 750/1000)
14K gold corresponds to a purity of 585 thousandths or 585/1000. (58.5% gold)
12K gold contains 50% gold

But these gold alloys also offer another possibility: creating a variety of colors. These include white gold, gray gold, yellow gold, red gold, and purple gold. For example, 18k rose gold is composed of 75% gold, 20% copper, and 5% silver.

Gold-Filled vs. Gold Plated

Here are some differences between these two materials:

• Gold plating is achieved through an electroplating process , which involves covering a base metal, often copper or brass, with a 3-micron layer of gold using an electrodeposition process.

• According to French regulations, this layer of gold must have a minimum thickness of 3 microns (0.003 mm) to be classified as “gold plated”.

• Unlike Gold Filled, which is available in 12K and 14K, gold plated offers a wider range of purities , including 14K, 18K and even 24K.

Gold-Filled vs. Gold-Plated

Gold plating is distinguished by:

• Its extremely thin gold layer thickness, about 10 times thinner than that of gold plating. This thin film of gold, generally between 0.03 and 1 micron thick , is obtained by an electrolysis process similar to gold plating. This thin gilding, often called "flash" , is also applied to a base metal of brass or copper.

• This difference in thickness results in jewelry that is much less expensive than gold-filled, but also fragile. With a thickness of only a few microns, you can imagine how delicate this gilding is. Note that 1-micron gilding is of slightly higher quality compared to fine gold gilding.
  

• To be called "gold-plated," the metal must be covered with a layer of pure 24-carat gold , which is the only requirement for this designation. Unlike gold plating, however, there are no French regulations regarding the thickness of gold for gold plating. However, if the gold purity is lower (9K, 12K, 14K, etc.), the term "gold" is used instead.

What is the color of rolled gold?

Gold -filled has a color very close to that of gold , which can be confusing. However, it has a slightly less yellow tint than gold-plated . In addition, 14k gold-filled is lighter. 

There is also a rose gold variant of Gold-Filled , providing a varied palette of choices for jewelry designers.

How long can gold filled jewelry last?

When properly cared for, gold-filled jewelry will retain its shine and beauty for decades. However, its lifespan depends on three key factors:

1. the substances with which they come into contact (water, chlorine, cosmetic products, etc.);
2. the frequency of their cleaning ;
3. storage conditions .

Can you wear gold-filled every day?

The answer is a resounding yes!

You can wear them almost continuously, 24/7, as long as you protect them from harsh chemicals and cosmetics. And that's not all, the benefits go far beyond that!

What are the advantages of Gold-Filled (Rolled Gold)?

• Gold Filled has a thick gold coating. This makes it less susceptible to discoloration and tarnishing. It does not chip or peel, and retains its color when properly cared for.

• Gold Filled is also a great option if you're looking for quality gold jewelry without the high price tag. You'll get the aesthetics of solid gold at a fraction of the cost, without having to compromise on quality.

• Gold Filled is also water-resistant, making it a practical choice for everyday use without fear of deterioration. It is also hypoallergenic, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin. The pure gold layer covering the base metal prevents allergic reactions.

However, it's important to note that gold-filled jewelry isn't suitable for everyone, especially those with gold allergies. For everyone else, it's a unique opportunity to own a luxury piece of jewelry at an affordable price.

Choose I-Perles for your 14k Gold-Filled creations!

At I-Perles , we are delighted to offer you a magnificent collection of 14-carat gold-filled findings and accessories . Our selection has been carefully curated to offer you a wide variety of design possibilities. You can imagine and create unique jewelry designs, from earrings to necklaces to high-quality rings.

Explore our online store and discover our gold-filled collection:

• Extra fine chain ;
• Pink lobster clasp ;
• Creole for earrings ;
• Ring ring ;
• Crush bead ;
• Charm ;
• And much more!

Offer your customers trendy jewelry that they can wear every day while benefiting from the advantages of Gold Filled:

• Superior quality : a 14-carat gold alloy
• Hypoallergenic : guaranteed nickel and lead free, ideal for sensitive skin
• Durable and long-lasting : jewelry that stands the test of time
• Affordable Price : Excellent value for quality creations!

By choosing I-Perles, you're choosing unparalleled quality and attentive customer service. Our team is here to support you in your creative projects and help you find the perfect findings for your creations. Don't wait any longer to bring your ideas to life and make your gold-filled creations shine in the heart of your workshops!

Seduced by 14k gold filled?

In summary:

• 14k Gold Filled looks like solid gold, without the price;
• The GF is designed to be worn regularly. It is durable, resistant, and almost unalterable;
• This material, of very good quality, is increasingly in demand in French jewelry stores.

Do you prefer gold plating ? Choose this solution with confidence! Do you prefer gold to fine gold ? No problem! However, it's important to properly care for your fine gold-plated jewelry to preserve it. Avoid chlorine, seawater, and chemicals, which can damage it. And to avoid shocks, don't forget to store it in a case or pouch.

Share your experience with us!

Do you have any questions about Gold Filled or would you like to share your feedback? Don't hesitate to contact us! We're always happy to help!

And don't forget that at I-Perles , you can buy your Gold Filled findings in bulk or group your orders together to save even more!