Gold-plated jewelry is generally cheaper than solid gold. However, it tarnishes quickly and can cause allergic reactions in some people.
One way to determine if your jewelry is real gold is to test it with a magnet or use an acid tester. If the metal is magnetic or erodes, it’s not real gold.
Weight
Gold chains are one of the most popular accessories available, and they look great both solo or layered with other chain lengths and styles. However, the weight of a gold chain can vary significantly depending on the length and thickness of the links.
Solid gold chains tend to weigh more than their plated counterparts. This can be negative for some people, especially if they prefer a lightweight and comfortable necklace.
Another drawback of solid gold is its higher price tag. However, since gold is a precious metal, its value does tend to increase over time.
For a similar style, you can get the look of a solid gold chain for less by purchasing a gold vermeil piece. Like gold plating, gold vermeil is a layer of real gold on top of another metal. It is also a more durable alternative to plated jewelry.
Durability
Solid gold chains are made entirely from natural, precious metals. They’re often the most durable option but have a higher price tag and weight on your neck. Solid gold chains are typically marked with a karat number, with higher numbers indicating more pure gold. The highest karat for jewelry is 24k, but 14k is the optimal choice for chain purposes due to its durability and affordability. A solid gold chain will usually have soldered links, which make them more resistant to tugging since the gaps between the link will be closed. These are common in more durable gold chain styles, such as the anchor, figaro, and curb chains.
Opt for a gold-plated chain for a durable and affordable alternative to solid gold. These chains have a base metal, such as brass, covered with a thin layer of genuine gold alloy. Look for a chain with a thickness of 0.5 microns or more to ensure it will last. Gold-filled is cheaper than solid gold and more durable than gold-plated.
Style
Solid gold chains are an excellent option for men who want a classic look that will stand the test of time. They can be worn in both casual and formal situations and will retain their value. They’re also relatively lightweight compared to other types of gold jewelry.
Hollow gold chains, on the other hand, look identical to solid gold chains but have a thinner layer of natural gold. This makes them lighter in weight and more affordable.
When buying a gold chain, the thickness is as important as the material. Thinner chain necklaces can quickly tarnish and will not be as durable.
Solid gold chains should have high craftsmanship and feel firm when handled. If the chain is too light or has an unrealistically low price tag, it may be a fake. In this case, a further test is needed to confirm that the chain is gold. To be sure, look for a stamp or inscription of the letters GP, GF, or GEP.
Value
As the name suggests, solid gold chains are made from pure metal. They are more expensive than gold-plated chains but can last much longer. Solid gold also holds its value, so it is easy to resell later.
Gold-plated jewelry is made from a base metal (such as brass or copper) coated in a thin layer of gold using electroplating. The thickness of the gold layer varies, but it is typically only about 0.5 microns thick. This is far thinner than the average human hair, and it does not hold its value as well as a solid gold chain.
Whether you opt for a solid or plated gold chain, checking that it has been hallmarked is essential. A hallmark is a stamp that indicates the purity of gold, including its karat weight. The hallmark is usually found on the chain’s clasp and will display a letter mark or a number indicating the gold’s karat purity.
