Let’s cut to the chase: Not all that glitters is gold. Literally. If you’ve been scrolling through jewelry options, you’ve probably come across terms like “real gold,” “gold filled” and “gold plated.” But what do they actually mean for your wallet, your style, and the longevity of that piece you’re eyeing?
Spoiler alert: there’s a big difference. In this post, we’re diving straight into the nitty-gritty of gold jewelry so you can make a choice that’s not just smart—but seriously stylish.
Real Gold: The OG of Fine Jewelry
When we say, “real gold,” we’re talking about the crème de la crème. Real gold jewelry is made from solid gold, whether it’s pure 24K or an alloy like 14K or 18K. This isn’t just jewelry—it’s an investment in quality, longevity, and timeless style.
Why Real Gold Rocks:
- Built to Last: Real gold doesn’t mess around. It doesn’t tarnish, corrode, or fade away with time. Whether you’re wearing it every day or saving it for special occasions, real gold keeps its shine.
- Serious Value: Let’s be real—real gold holds its value. It’s the kind of jewelry you can pass down as an heirloom or resell if you ever need to (though we doubt you’ll want to part with it).
- Hypoallergenic: Got sensitive skin? No worries. Real gold is hypoallergenic, making it perfect for those with skin that reacts to other metals.
At Belmont, we’re all about giving you the best. Our collection features only real gold jewelry, from 14K and 18K pieces that are designed to dazzle. Whether you’re in the market for an emerald engagement ring or a sleek gold bracelet, we’ve got you covered with the real deal.
Gold Filled Jewelry: Still Not the Real Stuff
Gold filled jewelry is like the middle child of the gold family. It’s got more going on than gold plated but doesn’t quite reach the heights of real gold. How does it work? A thick layer of gold is bonded to a base metal, which makes it more durable than gold plated jewelry—but still not as long-lasting as the real stuff.
Gold Filled: The Pros and Cons:
- Better Than Plated: Gold filled jewelry isn’t just a thin veneer. It’s got a decent amount of gold content, making it more durable and valuable than gold plated pieces.
- Affordable Shine: If you’re on a budget but still want that gold look, gold filled can be a decent compromise. Just know that it won’t last forever.
- Still Hypoallergenic: Like real gold, gold filled jewelry can be a safe bet for sensitive skin—especially if it’s 14K or higher.
While gold filled jewelry might work for some, at Belmont, we believe in going all-in on quality. That’s why we stick to offering real gold, ensuring that you’re getting jewelry that’s worth every penny.
Gold Plated Jewelry: The Shiny Imposter
Let’s get real about gold plated jewelry. It looks great—at first. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll see why it’s the least desirable option if you’re in it for the long haul.
The Truth About Gold Plated Jewelry:
- Quick to Fade: The thin gold layer on gold plated jewelry is just that—thin. It wears off faster than you can say “new earrings,” leaving you with tarnished metal that doesn’t look nearly as nice.
- Little to No Value: Once that gold layer’s gone, so is any value. You’re left with base metal that’s worth next to nothing, and likely won’t age well.
- Watch Out for Reactions: The base metals in gold plated jewelry (think nickel or brass) can cause skin reactions, especially if you’re prone to allergies.
Even big-name retailers can push gold plated pieces at high prices, banking on their brand name rather than the quality of the product. But savvy shoppers know better—when you’re buying jewelry, it pays to look beyond the surface.
The Belmont Difference: All About That Real Gold
At Belmont, we don’t believe in cutting corners. That’s why we only offer real gold jewelry. Our pieces are crafted from 14K or 18K gold, ensuring that you’re getting a product that’s not only beautiful but also built to last. Whether it’s an emerald engagement ring or a timeless pair of gold earrings, our jewelry is designed to keep shining for years to come.
So, why settle for less when you can have the best? Real gold offers the kind of quality, value, and longevity that gold plated and gold filled jewelry just can’t match. When you choose Belmont, you’re choosing jewelry that’s worth your investment—and your admiration.
Understanding 14K vs. 18K Gold
When shopping for real gold jewelry, you’ll often encounter terms like 14K and 18K gold. Here’s what these terms mean and how they affect the jewelry’s characteristics:
- 14K Gold: 14K gold is made up of 58.3% pure gold, with the remaining 41.7% consisting of other metals like copper, silver, or zinc. This blend makes 14K gold more durable and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for everyday wear, especially for rings and bracelets.
- 18K Gold: 18K gold contains 75% pure gold and 25% other metals. It has a richer, more vibrant color than 14K gold due to its higher gold content. However, it’s slightly softer and more prone to scratching, so it’s often reserved for special occasions or jewelry that’s worn less frequently.
At Belmont, we offer both 14K and 18K gold options, allowing you to choose the perfect balance of beauty and durability. Whether you’re looking for an emerald engagement ring or an elegant pair of earrings, our real gold jewelry is designed to last a lifetime.
Conclusion: Choose Real Gold and Sparkle for Life
Let’s wrap it up: Real gold is the way to go. It’s durable, valuable, and stunning—everything you want in a piece of jewelry. Gold filled might work in a pinch, but it’s no substitute for the real thing. And as for gold plated? Well, you know better now.
At Belmont, we’re here to make sure you never have to compromise. Our real gold jewelry is crafted with care and designed to last, so you can shine brightly today, tomorrow, and for years to come.