Gold Filled Explained

Gold Filled Explained

I thought it would be helpful to share the answers to some of our most commonly asked questions about gold filled:

1. What is gold filled?

Gold filled (also known as rolled gold) comprises a solid brass (copper and zinc) core over which gold is mechanically bonded using heat and pressure. Gold filled items must contain, by law, 5% or 1/20 of gold by weight. All of our gold filled pieces, findings and tags are 14K.

2. What is the difference between gold filled and gold-plated?

The difference between gold filled and gold plated items is the amount of gold used over the brass core. Gold filled items must contain, by law, 5% or 1/20 of gold by weight. In contrast gold plated items usually contain a microscopic amount of gold. This means the gold layer on gold plated items can peel or flake very easily exposing the brass core underneath. Because the gold layer on gold filled items is so much thicker it will not peel or flake and lasts for years.

3. What stamps are used on gold filled items?

You will see 'GF 14/20' or '1/20 14K GF' indicating the item is 14K gold filled and 1/20 of gold by weight. Handmade Ponder pieces are not stamped whereas chains etc. will be.

4. Does gold filled tarnish?

Very little tarnishing will be observed in 14K gold, and it may take years before discolouration occurs. The most common causes of tarnishing are: oxidation, exposure to sulfur, differing body chemistries and exposure to perfume, hairspray, cleaning agents etc. Taking care of your jewellery and proper storage are the best methods to avoid tarnishing. (Please see our jewellery care instructions)