I get it..... You're scrolling online looking for some pretty dainty jewelry!
All the sudden a piece of jewelry catches your eye! You start reading the description and see that the metal is 18k gold filled and the price seems almost too good to be true. You pause and start to think to yourself.......
“Wait...18k gold filled, is says gold filled but why 18k?”
“Is it better than 14k? Is this legit? Why is the price so good?”
If you've ever found yourself asking these questions and starting to wonder, you're smart for pausing to think deeper. I am here to tell you the truth! There is a lot of confusion and misleading marketing around 18k gold filled jewelry, especially in the U.S.
In this blog, we will dive deeper into the following areas:
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What gold filled actually means
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The difference between 14k and 18k gold filled
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Why you should be cautious when you see 18k gold filled being sold
What Is Gold Filled Jewelry?
Gold filled is made by using jeweler’s brass as the core metal and pressure bonding multiple layers of 14 karat gold on top. Gold filled jewelry has to meet the federal quality standards established by the Federal Trade Commission of 5% pure gold by weight. Gold filled will not flake off, chip, peel, and will resist tarnishing if you take proper care of it.
14K Gold Filled: In the United States, The Beautiful Reliable Favorite
14k gold filled is the most common and trustworthy type of gold filled jewelry in the U.S. It contains 14 parts gold out of 24, meaning it's about 58.3% pure gold. 14K gold filled must follow the standards by the Federal Trade Commission. This gives it a warm, rich golden hue that is classic and timeless without being too yellow or brassy.
Why we love 14k gold filled:
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Durable and tarnish-resistant
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Safe for sensitive skin
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Easy to match with fine jewelry
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Meets all U.S. standards for gold filled
18K Gold Filled: In the United States, But Buyer Beware
18k gold filled has a higher gold content of 75% pure gold and has a rich and deep yellow tone. While it sounds and may look pretty, here's the issue: 18k gold filled is not regulated by the Federal Trade Commission, and many items marketed as “18k gold filled” are not actually gold filled. Since 18K is a higher karat, the prices would be more than 14K gold filled
18K Gold Filled: Other Countries
In some countries outside the U.S., 18k gold filled may meet that countries local standards and actually contain a thicker layer of real gold. However, those standards vary widely, and the term “gold filled” isn’t always regulated the same way it is here in the United States. Unfortunately, many imported items labeled “18k gold filled” are actually just gold plated in the US, meaning the gold layer is thinner and much less durable.
**** If a piece of jewelry is priced unusually low or you can’t verify its origin, chances are it’s not true gold filled. If it is labeled as 18K gold filled, it most likely is not the 14K gold filled that is regulated in the US and is really gold plated.
Ways to Protect Yourself as a Buyer
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Ask questions. If you’re unsure about a piece of jewelry, ask the seller whether it meets U.S. standards and not another countries standards.
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Look for transparency. Reputable sellers will clearly state in the descriptions whether the jewelry is 14k gold filled, 18k gold filled, gold vermeil, gold plated, or solid gold.
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Be extremely cautious of 18k gold filled claims. If you see "18k gold filled" jewelry for an inexpensive cost, especially online, it’s wise to be cautious.
Why We Use 14K Gold Filled at Sugar Fairy Jewelry
At Sugar Fairy Jewelry, we only use high-quality, U.S. sourced 14k gold filled materials for the reason we all love gold filled because of how well it lasts. Our jewelry is meant to be worn, loved, and lived in. You should never have to worry about it turning your skin green or fading after a few wears. You deserve beautiful pieces that match your lifestyle and last you a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to gold filled jewelry, 14k gold filled is your most trustworthy and durable option, especially in the U.S. While 18k gold filled might seem appealing and stylish, it often doesn’t meet the standards or bonding quality required to truly last.
If you have any additional questions about 14k and 18k gold filled, please reach out ◡̈ I’m always happy to help.