Your Guide to Vermeil Jewellery
Vermeil (pronounced “ver-may”) is a beautiful jewellery finish that combines the luxury look of gold with the affordability of sterling silver. It is a popular choice for those who love the warmth and elegance of gold while wanting high-quality precious metal jewellery. A sterling silver base is coated with a layer of genuine gold and unlike standard gold plating, all vermeil jewellery must meet high standards for the thickness of the gold layer.
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Vermeil FAQs
Q: What is vermeil?
A: For a piece to be considered vermeil, it typically requires:
• A 925 Sterling Silver base (92.5% pure silver), so the same fineness as our silver jewellery
• A layer of real gold applied over the silver with a minimum gold thickness of 2.5 microns throughout the item. We use 18ct gold to achieve a richer, warmer finish.
Q: Is vermeil jewellery hallmarked?
A: Vermeil jewellery containing over 7.78g of sterling silver will have a silver hallmark.
For identification purposes, all our vermeil jewellery will be stamped “925 VGP”.
925 - indicates sterling silver
VGP - vermeil gold-plated
Q: How long does vermeil last?
A: The lifespan of vermeil depends on:
• The type of item
• How often it is worn
• Skin chemistry
• Lifestyle
• How well it is cared for
With proper care you can have years of enjoyment from your vermeil jewellery.
How to care for your vermeil jewellery
Vermeil is designed to be worn and enjoyed, but because it has a plating of gold over silver, it needs a little extra care to keep its beautiful finish.
Keep it away from moisture
Water, chlorine, and salt can all speed up wear on the gold plate.
Remove your vermeil jewellery before:
• Showering or bathing
• Swimming
• Exercising
• Using hot tubs or saunas
Avoid contact with chemicals
Perfume, lotions, hairspray, cleaning products, and cosmetics can affect the gold finish over time. Always apply skincare products, makeup and fragrance before putting on your pieces.
A good rule is...
✨ Your jewellery should be the last thing you put on in the morning and the first thing you take off at night! ✨
Store it carefully
When not wearing your jewellery:
• Store it in a soft pouch or jewellery box
• Keep pieces separate to prevent scratching
• Store away from direct sunlight and humidity
Clean gently
• Use a soft, dry jewellery cloth to remove oils and fingerprints.
• Avoid abrasive polishing cloths, harsh jewellery cleaners and chemical dips, as these can remove the gold plate more quickly.
With careful wear, vermeil jewellery can maintain its beauty for years. Over time, the gold plate may naturally soften in areas that experience frequent friction, such as rings and bracelet edges. This is a normal part of wearing gold-plated jewellery.
Why choose vermeil?
Vermeil is a beautiful choice for anyone who wants:
✨ The luxury appearance of solid gold
✨ The quality of a precious metal foundation
✨ Beautiful craftsmanship
✨ A timeless piece that can be cared for and enjoyed for years
With the right care, your vermeil jewellery can remain a treasured part of your collection, bringing everyday elegance with a touch of golden luxury.