I've used GreenPan skillets for a few years and decided to upgrade to the GP5 line. A rivet on my old skillet had a chip, and I read this newer coating is way more durable. I love the heavy feel of these and the more refined look with the slate body and gold handle. I would call the handle color more along the lines of brass than what I would think of as champagne gold, but it's pretty still. It seems like they cook more evenly so far, even though I've only used them a few times. Very glad I purchased!