Two golds. Two different energies.
On the surface, Gold Vermeil and gold-plated jewellery seem to radiate the same light, but their layers reveal a different truth. From the thickness of the gold to the metal at its core, they each carry distinct qualities.
Read on to discover their elemental differences and why Kerry Rocks Gold Vermeil is the most enduring choice for an everyday jewellery collection that lasts.

Carol wears Large Forged Hoops in Gold with the Omega Chain Necklace in Gold, layered with the Chronos Honey Opal Necklace in Gold and Greco Sunstone Necklace in Gold.
What is Gold Vermeil Jewellery?
At Kerry Rocks, our Gold Vermeil (ver-may) involves a premium technique of electro gold plating in Australia where each handcrafted .925 sterling silver piece is finished with a thick layer (2.5 microns for earrings, studs and necklaces and 4 microns for rings) of high quality and ethically sourced 18kt gold. This process allows the gold and silver metals to bind together and create durable, nickel free and hypoallergenic pieces suitable for everyday wear.
Resilient by nature. Luminous by design.
How is Gold-Plated Jewellery Different?
Gold-plated jewellery may look like Gold Vermeil on the surface, but its radiance is fleeting.
With just a thin wash of gold (usually less than 0.5 microns thick) over softer base metals like brass and copper it is quick to fade and prone to tarnish.
When its thin plating wears away, the gold dulls and the base metals beneath react, diminishing the piece and staining the skin.
Gold-plated jewellery is made for a moment, not every moment.
Gold Vermeil vs. Gold-Plated
Side-by-side, their energy is revealed.
| FEATURE | GOLD VERMEIL | GOLD-PLATED |
|---|---|---|
| BASE METAL | .925 sterling silver | Brass or Cooper |
| GOLD LAYER | Thick, ≥2.5 microns | Thin, <0.5 microns |
| DURABILITY | Endures with care | Quickly fades with wear |
| HYPOALLERGENIC | Yes | Rarely |
Shop 18kt Gold Vermeil Jewellery at Kerry Rocks
Kerry Rocks Gold Vermeil jewellery is forged in lasting balance.
Designed with intention, every piece is handcrafted in Australia using a premium vermeil electroplating process, where a luxurious layer of 18kt Gold is bonded to .925 Sterling Silver.
A collection of demi-fine adornments with elemental power.
Gold Vermeil Necklaces
Carry gold at your heart with Kerry Rocks Gold Vermeil necklaces, pendants, chains and chokers. All handcrafted from .925 Sterling Silver and gilded in a 2.5-micron layer of 18kt gold for strength and light.
Gold Vermeil Earrings
Adorn your ears with Kerry Rocks’ Gold Vermeil earrings and studs. Fortified with .925 Sterling Silver and elevated with a 2.5-micron layer of 18kt gold for luminous earscapes.
Gold Vermeil Rings
Circle your fingers in radiance. Kerry Rocks’ Gold Vermeil rings are crafted from .925 Sterling Silver bonded with a deeper 4-micron layer of 18kt gold for resilience in every touch.
Gold Vermeil Bracelets and Bangles
Wrap your wrists in the elemental power of Kerry Rocks’ Gold Vermeil bracelets and bangles. Minimal or statement, each piece is crafted from .925 Sterling Silver core and finished with a 2.5-micron layer of luminous 18kt gold.
Shop Gold Vermeil Bracelet & Bangles
Caring for Your Gold Vermeil Jewellery
Even the strongest metals need mindful care to maintain their radiance.
To keep your Gold Vermeil jewellery luminous, we recommend regular Cleansing Rituals and conscious storage.
- Clean your pieces gently with a mild cleaning solution and dry using a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, vinegar and abrasive surfaces like jewellery brushes.
- Store your Gold Vermeil jewellery carefully in a safe space away from direct sunlight.
The elemental difference between Gold Vermeil and gold-plated jewellery is in the layers.
With thick 18kt gold layers and a Sterling Silver core, Gold Vermeil offers superior durability and lasting radiance.
Explore Kerry Rocks Gold Vermeil Handmade Jewellery
FAQs
IS GOLD VERMEIL BETTER THAN GOLD-PLATED?
Yes. If you want affordable, enduring jewellery you can wear in every moment, Kerry Rocks’ Gold Vermeil jewellery with a .925 Sterling Silver base is a sustainable choice for your jewellery collection.
IS GOLD VERMEIL REAL GOLD?
Yes. Kerry Rocks Gold Vermeil is real 18kt Gold layered generously over .925 Sterling Silver, with far more substance than gold-plated pieces. If you’re searching for real Solid Gold jewellery, explore our Solid Gold Jewellery Collection
WHAT BASE METAL IS USED IN KERRY ROCKS' GOLD VERMEIL JEWELLERY?
Always .925 Sterling Silver. Durable, hypoallergenic and nickel free, Sterling Silver pulses at the core of every Kerry Rocks Gold Vermeil piece. Handcrafted for everyday wear.
DOES GOLD VERMEIL TARNISH?
Like all precious metals, Gold Vermeil can darken slightly over time, but with mindful care and Cleansing Rituals it holds its radiance for years.
CAN I RE-PLATE MY KERRY ROCKS GOLD VERMEIL PIECE?
Yes. We offer a replating service for all Kerry Rocks jewellery pieces. Please email us at hello@kerryrocks.com.au for a quote.
















