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I. The History of Gold Jewelry
It has been hundreds of thousands of years since mankind started to create and craft jewelry. From ivory, animal bones and skin to fur, shells, wood and other natural resources, people adorned themselves with ornaments. Bijouterie (this is a reference no on will get if that matters) was believed to protect its owner, prevent from impure energy or unholy spirits, not just to decorate. Ancient Egypt was undoubtedly the most prominent jewelry producer – mostly because they were to discover gold ore. Empowered with modern technology, they started to extract precious metal and gemstones and manufacture bangles and baubles. Soon after, Egyptians started to add gems and combine them with golden bracelets, rings and necklaces just to emphasize their wealth. Hence, even today so many years later, we perceive golden ornaments as a symbol of luxury, high social standing and welfare.
II. Understanding Gold Plated Jewelry
Nowadays, it seems that yellow and white gold plated jewelry trends throughout the world, yet some people doubt the quality of gold plated jewelry. But let’s hold the fort and think through gold plated jewelry. We need to take on tough questions like: What is gold plated? Is gold plated real? Finally: is it worth it to buy plated jewelry?
III. What is Gold Plated Jewelry?
Quoting “Collins English Dictionary”: gold plated means covered with a thin layer of gold. In the jewelry industry, gold plating is a method of depositing a thin layer of gold onto the surface of another metal, most often copper or silver, by chemical or electrochemical plating. This process creates a layer as thin as 0.5 microns to about 2.5 microns of gold over the surface of the base metal. Gold plated jewelry is often more affordable than solid gold and can still give the appearance of real gold. It is a popular choice for those looking for the aesthetics of gold without the high price tag.
IV. Is Gold Plated Real?
Yes, gold plated jewelry is real jewelry. The base metal is typically a real metal such as copper or silver, and it is coated with a thin layer of real gold. However, it is important to note that the gold layer in gold plated jewelry is much thinner than in solid gold jewelry. This means that over time and with wear, the gold layer can wear off, revealing the base metal underneath. With proper care, gold plated jewelry can maintain its appearance for a long time, but it may require re-plating to restore its original luster.
V. Is it Worth it to Buy Gold Plated Jewelry?
Whether gold plated jewelry is worth it depends on individual preferences and budget. Gold plated jewelry offers the look of real gold at a more affordable price, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers. It can be a great option for those who want to accessorize with trendy pieces without making a significant investment. However, it is important to consider that the thin layer of gold may wear off over time, especially with frequent wear. For those looking for long-term investment pieces, solid gold jewelry may be a better option.
VI. Conclusion
In conclusion, gold plated jewelry is a real and affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry. It provides the aesthetic appeal of gold at a fraction of the cost, making it a popular choice for fashion-forward individuals. However, it is essential to understand the limitations of gold plated jewelry, including the potential for the gold layer to wear off over time. Ultimately, the decision to purchase gold plated jewelry depends on personal style preferences and budget considerations.
