FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gold Vermeil?

Gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) is a high-quality form of demi-fine jewelry: a solid 925 sterling silver base with a thick layer of real gold bonded on top. To be legally called vermeil in the US, a piece has to meet three standards. The base must be sterling silver, the gold must be at least 10k, and the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick. That’s many times thicker than standard gold plating, which is often 0.5 microns or less and usually sits on brass or another base metal.

Every McKenna James piece starts as a custom mold, is cast in 925 sterling silver, and is finished with 2.5 microns of 18k gold. You get the warm, rich look of solid gold that lasts far longer than ordinary gold-plated jewelry, without the solid-gold price tag. Because the base is sterling silver, it’s also a gentler choice for most sensitive skin.

How long does Gold Vermeil last compared to other gold-plated jewelry?

With proper care, gold vermeil can keep its shine for years. Typical gold-plated jewelry often starts to fade, tarnish, or wear through within a few weeks to a few months.

The difference comes from two things. The first is thickness. Vermeil has a gold layer of at least 2.5 microns, while standard plating is usually 0.5 microns or less, so there’s much more gold to wear through before anything changes. The second is what sits underneath. Plated jewelry is usually brass or another base metal, and when the gold wears thin that metal shows through and can turn green or darken your skin. Vermeil is sterling silver underneath, so even after years of wear, the piece is still a precious metal.

How long any piece lasts depends on how often you wear it and how you care for it. Water, sweat, lotion, perfume, and friction against other jewelry all speed up wear. Pieces you wear every day, especially rings and bracelets, will show wear sooner than a necklace saved for special occasions. If you follow our care tips, your McKenna James pieces are made to be worn and loved for a long time.