Everything you need to know about jewelry plating types

Posted by Bijouterie Alberto Bijoux • Plateau-Mont-Royal, Montreal 

When shopping for jewelry, we often hear terms like "gold plated," "rhodium plated," "vermeil," or "PVD"... but what do they really mean? At Alberto Bijoux, we've been helping our customers choose their jewelry for over 20 years — and the question of plating often comes up. Here's a clear little guide to help you better understand what you're wearing (or what you're about to give as a gift).

What exactly is plating?

Plating involves depositing a thin layer of precious metal or coating onto a base metal — usually sterling silver or stainless steel. This is what gives a piece of jewelry its shine, color, and, in many cases, its resistance to wear. The result can be superb... provided you understand the differences between the techniques.

1. Gold Plating

Gold plating is a thin layer of gold deposited onto a base metal by electrolysis. The color is warm, luminous, and the visual appearance is very close to a solid gold piece of jewelry — for a fraction of the price.

• What you need to know: Durability depends directly on the thickness of the gold layer. Quality gold plating will last a long time if cared for: avoid prolonged contact with water, perfumes, and creams. In our store, we will always frankly tell you what thickness you have in your hands.
• For whom: Those who love the classic gold look and are looking for beautiful jewelry at an accessible price.

2. Vermeil

Vermeil is often the lesser-known version of gold plating — and yet, it is one of the noblest standards in accessible jewelry. By definition, a vermeil piece of jewelry must be made of sterling silver (925) as the base metal, covered with a layer of gold of at least 10 carats and a minimum thickness of 2.5 microns. It is therefore a step above ordinary gold plating, both in terms of quality and intrinsic value.

• What you need to know: Because the base is sterling silver and not brass or common alloy, vermeil is often better tolerated by sensitive skin. The thicker gold layer also gives it better long-term durability. That said, like all plating, it requires minimal maintenance: avoid water and chemicals.
• For whom: Those who want the warmth of gold with the nobility of sterling silver underneath — a superior quality piece of jewelry at a still reasonable price.

3. Silver Plating

The same principle as gold plating, but with a layer of silver. The result is fresh, elegant, and perfectly on-trend. Silver plated on a base metal offers a simple and versatile look that can be worn daily or for an evening out.

• What you need to know: Silver can tarnish over time — this is completely normal and easy to maintain with a soft cloth. Some silver-plated jewelry benefits from an anti-tarnish treatment to prolong its shine.
• For whom: Fans of a cool and minimalist look, who like to mix silver with their wardrobe.

4. Rhodium Plating

Rhodium is the well-kept secret of fine jewelry. This platinum group metal is deposited in a thin layer on sterling silver (or sometimes on white gold) to give it a brilliant, intense, and durable white luster.

• What you need to know: Rhodium is extremely resistant to oxidation and light scratches. This is why it is widely used on sterling silver jewelry — it protects the metal while giving it that mirror finish we love. Over time, rhodium plating can wear down slightly (especially on rings worn daily), but it is possible to re-rhodium a piece of jewelry to restore its original shine.
• For whom: Anyone who wants a silver piece of jewelry that retains its shine for a long time and withstands daily wear.

5. Gold PVD (on stainless steel)

PVD — Physical Vapor Deposition — is a modern coating technology primarily applied to stainless steel. A thin layer of metal (often titanium nitride for golden tones) is deposited under vacuum at high temperature, creating an extremely strong bond with the base metal.