Are gold beads and findings made of real gold?
A. There are a few different types of gold beads and findings: • 24k Gold: 100% pure gold, which is relatively soft and very expensive. • 14k Gold: 58.3% gold mixed with other metals to influence hardness, color, and cost. • Gold Filled: Actually the opposite. Layers are bonded together, gold on the outside and a base metal on the inside. Our gold filled beads art 14k gold on the outside. Durable, looks like real gold, but without the price. • Vermeil: Pronounced ver-may is 14k gold plated over sterling silver. Looks like 24k gold but not as durable as gold filled. • Gold plated: Gold color metal plating over a base metal such as pewter or brass. Inexpensive but the plating can wear over time.
