The difference between gold plated and solid gold jewellery
The world of fine jewellery can feel a little daunting. At first glance, it can all look similar, but not all gold jewellery is created equal. One of the most important choices you will come across is gold plated versus solid gold jewelllery, a decision that can have a big impact on how your piece ages and holds meaning over time. When choosing jewellery unique to you, from bespoke designs to engagement rings and future heirlooms, understanding these differences matter.
What is gold plated jewellery?
Gold plated jewellery is often the go-to when affordability is the main priority. It starts with a base metal, usually brass or copper, which is coated with a thin layer of gold. This layer is extremely fine; it doesn’t need to meet any minimum thickness standards and usually varies between 0.25 and 2.5 microns thick. This means the actual amount of gold makes up only a very small percentage of the final piece, less than 1 per cent. A slightly higher quality alternative is gold vermeil, which uses a thicker 2.5 micron minimum layer of gold for added strength. With gold vermeil, the base is sterling silver, which doesn’t corrode like copper or brass.
While gold plated and gold vermeil jewellery can look beautiful when new, they’re much more vulnerable to everyday wear. Over time, the plating can fade and tarnish through oxidation or contact with moisture, sweat, perfumes, lotions and other chemicals. Although it does resemble solid gold, it doesn’t offer the same durability, intrinsic value or lasting significance.
What about solid gold?
Solid gold jewellery is exactly what it sounds like. It’s made entirely of gold alloy with no base metal hidden underneath, so everyday wear won’t risk exposing another material over time.
This is where carats come in. It’s easy to assume more carats are always better, but with gold, that’s not necessarily the case. Solid gold is measured by purity, ranging from 24 carat, the purest form, to lower carat alloys like 18 carat and 9 carat. Pure gold shines with an unmistakable lustre but is naturally soft, which is why it is usually alloyed with other metals to make it strong enough for everyday wear.
At Incador, we craft all our jewellery in 18 carat gold. This means 75 per cent of each piece is pure gold, hitting the sweet spot between richness and strength. It’s durable enough to be worn daily, yet luxurious enough to feel truly special. Every piece is hallmarked, so its purity is always guaranteed.
While solid gold may be more costly, it’s an investment in something that’s made to last, not just for years but to be a cherished heirloom for generations. Rather than losing its value over time, it only grows in meaning, memories and significance, much like gold itself, which, according to Forbes, has increased in value by a record high of 70.84 per cent over the past year alone.
The different tones of gold
Gold isn’t just gold. Its colour depends on the metals it is alloyed with and each has its own unique character. At Incador, we offer three of the most beloved gold finishes.
Yellow gold
Warm, classic and instantly recognisable. Yellow gold is created by blending pure gold with copper and zinc or silver. It’s the closest in appearance to gold in its purest form, a timeless choice that never goes out of style.
White gold
A cooler alternative. White gold is made by mixing gold with metals like palladium, nickel or silver. At Incador, our white gold pieces are finished with a rhodium plating, giving them a luminous, platinum-like sheen. Ideal for those drawn to clean, neutral tones and understated elegance.
Champagne gold
An exclusive Incador alloy. Champagne gold sits somewhere between rose and white gold, with a slightly deeper, richer tone. Subtle, warm and distinctive, it’s a rare finish that feels both modern and quietly luxurious.
Why Incador chooses solid gold
Everything we create at Incador is guided by a simple belief: jewellery should be made with care, intention and integrity. That means choosing materials that last, designs that endure and pieces you’ll never want to take off.
By choosing solid gold, we move away from jewellery that relies on frequent replating or replacement. Our jewellery doesn't corrode or tarnish. It ages gracefully, becoming a part of your personal story. While gold plated jewellery can be more accessible, solid gold carries inherent value, growing alongside the memories it holds. For bespoke engagement and wedding rings, pieces that symbolise commitment and longevity, solid gold is worth the investment.
At Incador, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between beauty and integrity. Every piece we create reflects our commitment to sustainable materials, responsible sourcing and timeless design. Jewellery can be both beautiful and meaningful, and by choosing solid gold, you get to enjoy luxury without compromise.