“Is it real gold?”
If you’ve ever asked this while shopping for gold jewellery, you’re not alone.
You’ve probably seen labels like solid gold, gold-filled, or gold-plated and wondered, what’s the difference? And more importantly, what are you really paying for? We know how overwhelming these terms can feel, so let us break it down for you in simple terms where you can shop with clarity and confidence for your next gold shopping trip.
What is Solid Gold?
Solid gold jewellery is exactly what it sounds like. It means the piece is made entirely of gold (colloquially referred to as 'real gold). But here’s the catch: pure 24K gold is super soft, so most solid gold jewellery is made in 22K or 18K, which means it’s mixed with stronger metals like alloys to make it more durable for everyday wear.
For example, the karat rating of a gold piece indicates the proportion of pure gold it contains compared to other metals and its common uses.
Why people love it:
- Durable and tarnish-resistant
- Resale/Investment value
- Safe for sensitive skin
It may be the most expensive option, but it’s also the most valuable and enduring. If you’re looking for timeless jewellery you can wear for years, or even pass down through generations, solid gold is always a wise investment.
Discover our timeless 999 and 916 solid gold jewelry collections here.
What is Gold-Filled?
Gold-filled is a mid-range type of gold jewellery that is covered in a layer of gold. The gold layer must be at least 10k and make up at least 5% of the item’s total weight, making it much more substantial than gold-plated jewellery. Because of this, gold-filled jewellery tends to look and feel a lot like solid gold.
Why people love it:
- A budget alternative to solid gold
- Long-lasting and resistant to tarnishing with proper care
- Safe for sensitive skin especially if it’s nickel-free
Gold-filled prices have risen in recent years, and for a similar price, investing in solid gold may be a smarter choice due to its greater durability and long-term value. While gold-filled jewelry is durable, it holds little resale value and won’t last as long as solid gold over time. But if you're looking for quality without the premium price, gold-filled remains a budget-friendly option.
What is Gold-Plated?
Gold-plated jewellery has a thin layer of gold over a base metal like brass or stainless steel. It’s a popular choice in fashion jewellery due to its affordability and trendy appeal, making it perfect for fun, budget-friendly pieces you don’t mind replacing over time.
Why people love it:
- Highly affordable
- Available in a wide variety of stylish, trendy designs
- Great for occasional or short-term wear
However, it fades and tarnishes over time, especially if exposed to water, sweat, or lotions. And since the base metal may not be hypoallergenic, it can irritate sensitive skin.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between solid gold, gold-filled or gold-plated jewellery ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and intention.
At Chip Lee Jewellery, we exclusively offer solid gold jewellery because we believe in providing timeless quality and lasting value that you can cherish for a lifetime. Solid gold not only looks elegant but also stands the test of time, making it a smart investment for your jewellery collection. That said, the choice is always yours, whether you prioritise durability, style, or budget, it’s all about what feels right for you.
Ready to invest in timeless elegance? Visit our stores today to discover solid gold jewellery that are made to last.