At Gold Club, we believe in transparency, quality, and longevity. Here’s what you need to know about the types of gold commonly used in jewelry and why we only use solid gold and gold filled.

What You’re Really Wearing

  • Diagram of gold plated

    Gold Plated and Vermeil

    Not used at GOLD CLUB

    Gold-plated and vermeil pieces has less than a paper-thin layer of gold over cheap base metals. It may look good at first, but it wears off fast and often causes irritation.



    Why we don’t use it:

    • Wears off fast
    • Prone to tarnish and skin irritation
    • Not made to last—and not our style

  • Diagram of gold filled

    Gold Filled

    LustraFlex™ and Chains

    Gold-filled jewelry contains 100x more real gold than plated. It's made by bonding a thick, durable layer of 14k gold to a strong metal core. It’s fused under heat and pressure, so the gold stays.


    Why we love it:

    • 100x more gold than plated
    • Tarnish-resistant and safe for sensitive skin
    • Made to move, sweat, and shine for years
    • The sweet spot: everyday luxury without the solid gold price

  • Diagram of Solid Gold

    Solid Gold

    Fine Jewelry

    Solid gold is the most valuable and durable option. It’s made entirely of gold, typically 14k for balance between purity and strength.



    Why we love it:

    • Will never tarnish or fade
    • Hypoallergenic and water-safe
    • Heirloom-worthy—made to pass down

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The Gold Standard: Facts

How Much Gold Is There?

Gold-Filled: Must have at least 5% gold by weight. Usually produced with 12k or 14k gold sheets mechanically bonded under heat and pressure.

Gold-Plated: A microscopic gold layer, often 0.05% or less, sometimes up to 0.5 microns thick.

For perspective: a sheet of printer paper is 100 microns thick. Gold-plated jewelry is thinner than a single human hair.


Skin Safety & Allergies

Gold-Filled: Gold-to-base-metal bond resists wear and minimizes skin exposure to metals like brass or copper, making it hypoallergenic.

Gold-Plated: Thin layer breaks down quicker, exposing base metals that often cause irritation or green discoloration.


Value & Transparency

FTC-Regulated: The term “Gold-Filled” in the U.S. requires 5% gold or more.

Plating Loopholes: Labels like “Heavy Gold Plate” or “Vermeil” can be misleading. FTC doesn’t regulate micron thickness for plated items, meaning quality varies wildly. Which is why many companies use plating instead of gold-filled.


What This Means for Shoppers

Gold-Filled = Smart Investment

Durable, safe, reasonably priced, and built to last for years.

Gold Plated = Trend Accessory

Overpriced and expect fading, discoloration, and limited lifespan.

Solid Gold = High-End Keepsake

True heirloom quality.