The Difference between Gold, Alchemia & Electroplating

Let's face it. Everyone wants the best value when they're spending their hard-earned cash and they absolutely should. Gold jewelry has been a trend on Instagram for the past few years and whether you're into fine, semi-fine or gold-plated jewelry, this has been the metal that proves popularity! The problem? How do you know what you're really buying and if it's worth the money? Let's dig in.

Gold-Plated 

We should all be pretty versed in what it means for jewelry to be gold-plated, but let's do a quick overview.

Gold-plated jewelry sprung into existence in the early 1800s as an alternative to buying real gold. This gave those who didn't have the cash flow to buy gold access to wearing pieces that were only reserved for the wealthy.

Gold-plated jewelry is now classified as demi-fine jewelry and is made by placing a thin layer of gold over top any metal of choice. This process deposits a pretty microscopic layer of gold, which is the reason that gold-plated jewelry so easily tarnishes. In this day and age, where there are better alternatives, set the plated gold aside and step into the future.

What is Gold Electroplating?

Chances are you've been hearing about this fairly new process called electroplating! If you haven't, here's a rundown. Electroplating is a metal finish that has recently most commonly been used in manufacturing processes.

To break it down just a bit more, electroplating uses electric currents to change the property of the metal. This is proven to give jewelry longer wear and strengthen the metal itself.

Jewelry designers are just beginning to dabble with this method, but because it takes extra resources, you can expect to pay a higher price for your electroplated accessories.

Behind Alchemia 'Zero Karat Gold' 

If you've been a follower of Charles Albert and his jewelry innovations for years now, you not only know about the charm behind Alchemia 'Zero Karat Gold', but you probably have pieces that have lasted years.

Alchemia is the absolute first of it's kind. It is a gold-toned infusion of mixed metals that does not tarnish, is hypoallergenic, nickel-free, lead-free & cadmium-free. It is coated with a strong, thick baked lacquer known for its ability to keep the jewelry's beautiful luster and sheen.

This metal is not Gold, Gold-Plated, Gold-Filled, or Electroplated. It stands in a league of its own and brings the best value if you're a lover of great collectible pieces.