Gold vermeil is the only option with a base of precious metal; sterling silver. It is made by electroplating a very thick layer of real gold over sterling silver, creating a gold layer of at least 2.5 microns - 5 times thicker than gold plating. It can last several years or even decades (with proper care) and is hypoallergenic. If the gold layer does wear off, it may still be worn as a silver piece or be restored by re-plating services, making it a more sustainable option and a lifetime piece. It is the only fully precious option and the closest you can get to solid gold, without the solid gold price.

Gold filled uses cheaper, more tarnish-prone metals for the base, typically brass or copper. It is made by mechanical bonding using heat and pressure, instead of electroplating. The thickness of the gold layer varies, but it is 5% of the total weight of the piece. It may last several years, but once the gold layer wears off, the brass or copper inside will be exposed, meaning it may then cause allergic reactions or irritations. Additionally, the thickness of the gold layer varies depending on each piece, so there is not a consistent timeline for wear.

Gold plated uses cheaper metals for the base, typically brass, copper, or stainless steel. It is made by electroplating a thin layer of gold over a cheaper metal base, creating a gold layer of at least .5 microns. It may last a few months up to 1 or 2 years with proper care or infrequent use. Once the gold layer wears off, the cheaper metal inside will be exposed, meaning it may then cause allergic reactions or irritations.

Flash plated uses cheaper metals for the base, typically brass, copper, or nickel. It is made by electroplating an extremely thin layer of gold over a cheaper metal base, creating a gold layer typically less than 0.175 microns. This is the cheapest and least durable option. The gold layer will come off after only a few wears, exposing the cheaper metal inside which may then cause allergic reactions or irritations.