Vermeil (Gold-Plated Sterling Silver)
Sterling silver base with gold plating (minimum 10k, 2.5 microns in the US)
Yellow gold appearance identical to solid gold; colour depends on karat of plating layer (yellow, rose, or white variants available)
Composition
Sterling silver (92.5% Ag, 7.5% Cu) base with electroplated gold layer of 10k to 24k purity
Physical properties
| Density | 10.40 g/cm³ | Weight per unit volume. Platinum is ~40% heavier than 18k gold at equal size |
|---|---|---|
| Melting range | 893–940 °C | Working temperature for alloys. Pure metals have a sharp melting point |
| Vickers hardness | 90 HV | Higher HV = greater scratch resistance in service |
| Mohs hardness | 2.7 | Approximate equivalent for comparative reference |
| Tensile strength | 295 MPa | Resistance to breaking under tension, relevant for prongs and fine settings |
| Purity | 92.50% | Fine metal content by mass |
| Tarnish resistance | Good | Surface oxidation / sulphidation under typical wear conditions |
| Workability | Good | Ease of forming, soldering, and fabricating under standard jewellery workshop conditions |
| Hypoallergenic | Hypoallergenic | Likelihood of triggering skin reactions under normal wear |
Common uses
Fashion jewellery, designer pieces, affordable fine jewellery, gifts, e-commerce jewellery brands
Hallmarking & identification
US legal definition requires minimum 10k gold, minimum 2.5 microns thick, over sterling silver. EU definition varies. The base is always stamped 925; the word 'Vermeil' is a commercial designation, not a regulated hallmark in most markets. Distinct from gold-filled and gold-plated: the base metal is specifically sterling silver.
Gold layer wears through with time, especially on high-contact surfaces like ring shanks. Avoid perfume, lotions, chlorine, and abrasives. Store in anti-tarnish pouches. Once worn through, underlying sterling may tarnish. Replating is possible but not always cost-effective.
Market & pricing
Significantly less expensive than solid gold at same appearance. Premium over standard silver plating due to sterling base and regulated gold thickness. Popular price point for entry-level fine-look jewellery.