Gold Filled Explanations

Gold Filled is made by hot rolling Gold alloy to a base metal.  This provides a Solid Gold surface over the base metal interior.  The raw stock is then made into whatever products it will become.  We are often asked about the varieties of fancy clasps in Gold Filled.  Because of manufacturing difficulties the styles will be limited.

The Bead Warehouse Marvin Schwab

The Gold is virtually welded to the interior surface and will last much longer than any form of plated gold.  This out layer or sheet of Karet Gold is considerably thicker than the plated varieties which have thickness in the .001 inch.  The Gold filled could last more than 100 years.  I have seen jewelry dating back close to that time in GF.  Gold Filled may be ordered in any karat alloy.  The karat content does not have to change the color, although it may.  When Gold melt goes up, some distributors will drop the content.  We have been selling the same products and content for 22 or more years and should not change this.

The Jewelry Trade does require "Quality" names to be used correctly.  We as a company always use correct terminolgy.  A good sign that the quality is misrepresented will be the color of the material.  Gold plating tends to be more orange than Gold Filled. This stands out in most pictures. 

Just as a side note, when you see the term "Sterling Plate" or "Sterling Plated"  used you will not get a product with "Sterling Silver".  Long ago it was ruled out as proper terminology.  A good indication that products are mis- represented are if the seller uses incorrect terminolgy in their listings.

We would appreciate your letting the community know that this was helpful.  Just remember, these are just the simple facts, but not always well known.  If you were hoping this guide would give you a PhD in Manufacturing and Metallurgy, please hold your thoughts and pass on an opportunity to ding this as not helpful.  I will frequently add to any of my guides as time permits me to continue with any particular guide, as long as there seems to be some interest.

Good luck out there.

Marvin