Gold-filled jewelry

"Rolled Gold" redirects here. For the Rolling Stones album, see Rolled Gold: The Very Best of the Rolling Stones.
Diagram of a gold-filled object
A watch made from gold-filled metal

Gold-filled is a type of composite material. Composites are formed from two or more constituent materials with different properties that, when combined, create a new material with enhanced properties.[1] Gold-filled material is made by bonding a layer of gold alloy to a base metal core (typically brass, but sometimes copper or silver). This creates a material with the appearance and durability of solid gold, but at a lower cost.

Gold-filled material is used to create a variety of products, including:

  • Jewelry: Gold-filled is a popular choice for jewelry because it's durable, affordable, and hypoallergenic.
  • Findings and components: Gold-filled is also used to make jewelry findings (e.g., clasps, jump rings) and other components.
  • Industrial and technical applications: While less common, gold-filled can be used in certain industrial applications where its properties are beneficial.

Regulations and Standards

In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates the term "gold-filled" to protect consumers. According to FTC regulations, gold-filled jewelry must contain a minimum of 5% gold by weight. This ensures a significant layer of gold that is much thicker than standard gold plating.[2]

Reputable manufacturers and sellers in the US adhere to these FTC regulations, ensuring consistent quality and consumer protection.

Markings and Abbreviations

The related terms "rolled gold plate" and "gold overlay" may legally be used in some contexts if the layer of 14k gold constitutes no less than 5% weight of the item. In the jewelry industry, gold-filled is never abbreviated as "GF" or "gold GF" on product markings. This abbreviation is incompatible with FTC guidelines, which require clear labeling of the gold content and fineness (e.g., 1/20 14K GF).[3]

Most high quality gold-filled pieces have the same appearance as high carat gold, and gold-filled items, even with daily wear, can last 10 to 30 years though the layer of gold will eventually wear off exposing the metal underneath. The layer of gold on gold-filled items is 5 to 10 times thicker than that produced by regular gold plating, and 15 to 25 times thicker than that produced by gold electroplate (sometimes stamped HGE for "high grade electroplate" or HGP for "heavy gold plate", though neither of these terms have any legal meaning, and indicate only that the item is gold plated).

  1. ^ "Composite materials at a glance". Royal Society of Chemistry. Retrieved 2024-10-18.
  2. ^ "The Essential Guide to the U.S. Trade in Advertising Jewelry of Silver in Combination with Gold: Supplement" (PDF). Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC). Retrieved 1 April 2015.
  3. ^ "Part 23—Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries". eCFR. U.S. Government Publishing Office. Retrieved 7 April 2015.