When shopping for gold jewelry, you may come across the term "vermeil," whether it's 10k vermeil, 14k, or 18k vermeil. This French phenomenon, pronounced "ver-may," is quickly becoming popular in the world of gold jewelry. But what exactly is vermeil, and how does it compare to other types of gold? If you're looking for sustainable, ethical jewelry options for wedding bands, engagement rings, or a bold statement piece, we’ve got you covered.
What is Vermeil, and How Does It Differ From Gold-Plated Jewelry?
Vermeil is a high-quality gold option that’s distinct from gold-plated jewelry. The biggest difference? Vermeil has a much thicker layer of gold. Gold-plated jewelry, for example, only requires a gold layer to be 0.5 microns thick, making it quite thin and more prone to fading or tarnishing. The base metal in gold-plated jewelry is typically less expensive, like copper or brass.
In contrast, gold vermeil jewelry must have a minimum gold layer of 2.5 microns, ensuring durability and longevity. And unlike gold-plated pieces, vermeil uses sterling silver as the base metal, making it a luxurious and sustainable choice.
The Science Behind Vermeil
Let’s dive a little deeper into what makes vermeil special. Vermeil jewelry starts with a sterling silver base, which consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like copper or brass. A thick layer of gold—at least 2.5 microns—is electroplated over the sterling silver. The gold used in vermeil must have a minimum karat weight of 10k, but it can be as high as 24k, depending on the piece.
At Rhodes Wedding Co., we create pieces with high-quality 14k and 18k gold, ensuring that your engagement rings, wedding bands, or any custom jewelry will stand the test of time while maintaining its brilliance.
Vermeil vs. Gold-Filled vs. Solid Gold
While we specialize in vermeil, we also work with solid gold, but not gold-filled. It’s important to note that "solid gold" can be a bit misleading—it doesn’t mean the jewelry is made entirely of gold, as pure gold would be too soft for everyday wear. Instead, solid gold jewelry is made from a blend of gold and other metals. For example, 14k gold consists of 58.3% pure gold, with the remaining percentage made up of other metals like copper or silver.
Solid gold pieces, especially in 14k and 18k, are some of the most expensive options, making them perfect for engagement rings or wedding bands that represent lifelong commitments. However, vermeil provides a durable, affordable, and ethical alternative without compromising on beauty or quality.
Why Choose Vermeil for Your Wedding Bands and Engagement Rings?
Vermeil offers the perfect balance of luxury and affordability. If you're looking for wedding bands, engagement rings, or something to make a bold statement that are both ethical and sustainable, vermeil is a fantastic choice. By using sterling silver as the base, you're getting a piece made entirely from precious metals, free from harmful mining practices. Plus, vermeil jewelry holds up exceptionally well to daily wear, making it ideal for those who want to cherish their rings for years to come.
At Rhodes Wedding Co., our handcrafted rings are made with ethical stones and sustainable materials, including black diamonds and various types of gold.W e take pride in crafting wedding bands and engagement rings that are not just beautiful but meaningful—wearable art that tells your unique love story.
How to Care for Vermeil Jewelry
While vermeil is durable, proper care is key to ensuring your jewelry lasts. Here are a few tips to keep your gold vermeil rings and pieces looking their best:
Avoid moisture: Take off your vermeil jewelry before showering, swimming, or working out.
Minimize exposure to lotions and perfumes: These can wear down the gold layer over time.
Polish regularly: If your vermeil starts to tarnish, gently rub it with a soft cloth to bring back its shine.
With proper care, your vermeil wedding bands or engagement rings will remain stunning for years, representing both your love and commitment in a way that’s truly sustainable.
Why Vermeil is a Sustainable and Ethical Choice
At Rhodes Wedding Co., we’re committed to using ethical and sustainable materials in all of our jewelry, including our vermeil pieces. By choosing vermeil for your engagement ring, wedding band, or statement jewelry, you’re supporting a more environmentally friendly process that reduces the need for excessive gold mining. Plus, vermeil uses fewer raw materials than solid gold, making it a more eco-conscious option without sacrificing quality or style.
Final Thoughts: Vermeil—A Perfect Blend of Art, Sustainability, and Luxury
When it comes to choosing wedding rings, engagement rings, or even a statement piece, vermeil offers an ethical and sustainable alternative to solid gold. With its thick layer of gold and precious sterling silver base, vermeil jewelry is designed to last while maintaining its luxurious look. At Rhodes Wedding Co., our husband-and-wife team is proud to create handcrafted rings that combine beauty, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
Ready to design a custom engagement ring or wedding band? Contact us today and let us help you create a piece of art you’ll wear forever.