We have all been there. You buy a cute gold necklace that looks perfect in the store light. Two weeks later, the shine is gone, the metal smells like old pennies, and worst of all—there is a faint green ring around your neck.
The culprit? Base metal.
When it comes to custom name necklaces, the term "Gold Plated" is often used loosely. But not all gold plating is created equal. Today, we are pulling back the curtain on the industry to explain the difference between standard Gold Plated jewelry and the Gold Vermeil standard we use at Unicreate.
What is "Standard" Gold Plated? (The Trap)
In the mass market, "Gold Plated" usually means a microscopically thin layer of gold (often less than 0.5 microns) flashed over a cheap base metal like Brass, Copper, or Nickel.
- The Problem: Because the gold layer is so thin, it rubs off quickly. Once it breaches, the base metal (brass) touches your skin.
- The Reaction: Brass reacts with the acidity in your sweat/skin oils, causing oxidation. That is exactly what turns your skin green.
- The Verdict: It's "fast fashion" for jewelry. Good for a photo, bad for daily wear.
What is Gold Vermeil? (The Unicreate Standard)
Gold Vermeil (pronounced ver-may) is the bridge between costume jewelry and solid gold. It is a legally regulated term in the jewelry industry—you can't just slap this label on anything.
To be classified as Gold Vermeil, a piece must meet three strict criteria:
- The Base Must Be Silver: Unlike brass or copper, the core of the necklace must be solid .925 Sterling Silver.
- The Gold Must Be Real: The gold layer must be at least 10k (We use 18k Gold for that warm, rich luxury tone).
- The Layer Must Be Thick: The gold plating must be significantly thicker (usually 2.5 microns) than standard plating.
The Showdown: Why Vermeil Wins
When you are designing a custom name necklace, you are creating a signature piece. You want it to last. Here is why 18k Gold Vermeil is the superior choice for personalized jewelry:
1. It is Hypoallergenic
This is the biggest selling point. Because the base is Sterling Silver (a noble metal) and the top is Real Gold, there is no mystery metal touching your skin. If you have sensitive skin or metal allergies, Gold Vermeil is safe.
2. "Manufacturing Certainty"
At Unicreate, we talk about certainty. With cheap brass plating, the manufacturing is inconsistent. With Vermeil, you know exactly what you are getting: Silver and Gold. Nothing else.
3. The Look of Solid Gold (Without the Price)
A Solid Gold Name Necklace can cost upwards of $500 to $1000. Gold Vermeil gives you the exact same visual finish—the same shine, the same color, and the same heavy feel—for a fraction of the price.
How to Care for Your Vermeil Piece
While Gold Vermeil is far more durable than standard plating, it is not invincible. It is still a layer of gold over silver. To keep your 18k gold plated necklace shining for years:
- The Golden Rule: "Last on, First off." Put your necklace on after you have applied perfume, lotion, and hairspray. Chemicals are the enemy.
- Avoid Water: While a splash won't hurt, remove it before showering or swimming in chlorinated pools to preserve the plating thickness.
- Store Correctly: Keep it in a dry place (like the Unicreate box) rather than a humid bathroom.
Conclusion
Is Gold Vermeil better? Yes.
It is the investment-grade choice for those who aren't ready for solid gold but refuse to settle for disposable brass jewelry.
When you create your custom piece with Unicreate, you aren't just buying a nameplate; you are buying .925 Sterling Silver wrapped in a luxurious coat of 18k Gold. No green skin, just your identity, immortalized.