What is Vermeil?

Vermeil (pronounce ver-​ˈmā; it's French!) It’s important to understand that the term “vermeil” is legally regulated. To qualify as vermeil, a piece of jewelry must meet certain criteria. Specifically, its base must consist of sterling silver, it must be plated in gold of at least 10 karats, and its gold plating must have a thickness of at least 2.5 microns.

Does Gold Vermeil Tarnish?
The thickness of gold vermeil plating is important primarily because the thicker the plating, the longer gold vermeil will retain its original appearance. A piece of genuine gold vermeil jewelry can continue looking as brilliant as it did when you first purchased it for years. Just be aware that gold vermeil can tarnish over time due to the effects of oxidation on its sterling silver base. Luckily, if you clean and maintain a piece of gold vermeil jewelry regularly, those signs of age can typically be removed.

Is vermeil waterproof? Can vermeil get wet? Can I shower with vermeil?
In short, no. No metal is truly “waterproof” as the minerals and deposits in regular tap water can dull or damage your jewelry over time. While showering with vermeil is typically okay to do it can hasten the degradation of your jewelry. It’s best to refrain from showering with your vermeil jewelry daily because the soaps, shampoos, and conditioners you use can react with the metals. However, occasionally showering with your piece won’t ruin it forever. Just don’t wear your jewelry in the pool, hot tub, or ocean because it can permanently alter and damage your precious pieces.

Is vermeil hypoallergenic?
Yes, gold vermeil is hypoallergenic! One of the great features of vermeil jewelry is that it's hypoallergenic. As it is made up of only most precious metals people will have no reaction or issues with this type of jewelry. Is vermeil gold good quality? Gold vermeil is the highest quality jewelry you can buy that isn’t solid gold. It is an excellent affordable option for gold jewelry. In the rankings of demi-fine jewelry gold vermeil certainly ranks as the highest quality affordable option.