What is gold-filled?
Gold-filled materials are much more economical and practical than solid 14K gold, and display the rich look of gold at a fraction of the cost. They are not filled with gold as the name suggests, but rather a thick layer of gold is permanently bonded to a base metal, such as brass or sterling silver. They should not be mistaken for gold-plated since they have 100 times more gold than plate – in fact; they are 5% 14K gold by weight. Under normal wear, gold-filled materials will never peel, flake, or wear off and can be treasured for generations.
Gold-filled jewelry is comparable in price and quality to sterling silver, but with the look of 14K gold. Federal law defines gold-filled jewelry as 14/20 gold-filled, or gold overlay, a thin layer of 14karat gold that is heat and pressure bonded to a brass core. The ratio refers to the amount of 14 karat gold to the brass core, which is 1/20 or 5%. The layer of 14karat gold makes it tarnish-resistant. Storing in a zipper plastic bag when not used retards tarnish for years.
