Solid Gold vs. Gold-Plated: Know What You’re Wearing

Gold is gold, right? Not exactly. If you’ve ever been stuck between buying a solid gold piece or something gold-plated that looks *just as shiny*, you’re not alone. Here’s the thing — the difference goes way beyond the surface. And once you know it, you’ll never shop the same again.

Solid Gold, Real Deal

This is the good stuff. Solid gold means your piece is made of actual gold — not dipped, not coated. It might be 9K, 14K, or 18K (24K is super soft, so it’s rarely used on its own), but the point is: it’s built to last.

Why it hits different:

• It doesn’t quit: You can wear it every day. It doesn’t fade. It doesn’t care about water, sweat, or time.
• No flakes, no fakes: Solid gold doesn’t tarnish or rub off. What you see is what you keep.
• It’s got value: Real gold keeps its worth. Some even say it’s better than Bitcoin (we’re not giving financial advice though).

Gold-Plated, Cute for Now

Gold-plated jewellery is kind of like a holiday romance — fun, flirty, but not built to last. It’s a base metal (like brass or steel) covered in a thin layer of gold. Great for trends, not so great for long-term love.

When it makes sense:

• Budget-friendly: Looks luxe, costs less. That’s the appeal.
• Style roulette: Perfect for experimenting with new looks without the commitment.

How to Tell the Difference

• Look for a stamp: Solid gold = “9K”, “14K”, “18K”. Plated = “GP”, “GEP”, “HGP”.
• Weight check: Solid gold feels heavy. If it’s light and airy, it’s probably plated.
• Magnet test: Solid gold doesn’t stick. If it’s magnetic, it’s not the real thing.
• Tarnish vibes: Gold-plated fades fast. Solid gold stays golden.

So, What’s Your Move?

If you’re all about longevity, skin-friendliness, and timeless shine, go solid gold. It’s a forever thing. If you just want to try out a trend and don’t mind if it flakes in a year or two? Gold-plated will do the job.

Why We Don’t Mess With Plated

At Glasâje, we don’t do plated. Every piece is solid gold, made to order, and crafted right here in Australia. No shortcuts. No compromises. Just jewellery that looks as good years from now as it does today.

Quick cheat sheet:

• Solid gold = forever, water-friendly, skin-safe, heirloom energy.
• Gold-plated = trendy, short-term, cute until it fades.

Buy what suits your style. But if you’re playing the long game? You already know what to choose.

—Glasâje