Gold vermeil and gold plating are both gold layered onto a base metal. But gold vermeil is a distinct and superior material for several reasons.   Thickness of gold: The minimum thickness for gold vermeil is 2.5 microns or more, whereas gold plating requires a minimum thickness of 0.5 microns.  Base material: Our gold vermeil is gold plated on sterling silver or brass. When the sterling silver base comes from recycled sources, the result is high quality jewellery with greater sustainability.  Durability: Because of the thicker layer of gold used for gold vermeil and the electrolysis technique used in its plating process, it offers a more durable option for jewellery when compared with gold plated. Gold plated can provide benefits for its lower price point, but the high quality of gold vermeil is the best option for gorgeous jewellery that you can wear for years to come.