What's the Difference Between Gold Filled and 14K Gold?

If you're on the hunt for quality jewelry that lasts but doesn't break the bank, you've probably come across gold filled jewelry and 14K gold. Both offer that timeless, luxurious gold look, but they’re pretty different in terms of composition and price. Throughout this blog post, we'll cover the main differences and help you determine which is best for your next jewelry piece.

What is Gold Filled Jewelry?

Gold filled jewelry is crafted by bonding a thick layer of real gold to a base metal. Unlike gold-plated jewelry, which has a very thin layer of gold, gold filled pieces have a much higher gold content (typically 5% of the item’s total weight). This makes gold filled jewelry more durable and resistant to tarnishing.

Advantages of gold filled jewelry:

• More affordable than solid gold

• Hypoallergenic (for most people)

• Durable and resistant to tarnish (can withstand daily wear)

What is 14K Gold Jewelry?

14K gold is a solid gold that has 58.3% pure gold combined with other metals such as copper or silver to make it stronger. It still has the traditional appearance and feel of solid gold but is stronger than higher-karat gold such as 18K or 24K gold, which is softer.

Advantages of 14K gold jewelry:

• Rich in gold content with permanent value

• Naturally tarnish-resistant

• Hypoallergenic

• Waterproof

Gold Filled Jewelry vs. 14K Gold: The Key Differences

My Personal Experience With Gold Filled Jewelry

I was curious when I first heard of gold filled jewelry on how well it would last given that I wear jewelry everyday including on beach vacation. To really give it a test, I brought my Sealoops gold filled hibiscus flower necklace to the beach in Costa Rica.

I wore the gold filled necklace for days on end whether I was swimming in the ocean, hanging out at the pool, or even showering after a beach day. And the outcome? The color remained rich, with no fading or discoloration. I was so impressed at how it withstood saltwater, chlorine, and sweat.

I even filmed a video demonstrating how great the necklace looked after several days of beach trips, and I'll be attaching it at the bottom of this entry so you can take a look for yourself!

This experience proved that gold filled jewelry isn't just an affordable alternative to 14K gold, it's also incredibly durable. For anyone who loves beach jewelry that can handle ocean dips and pool swims, gold filled is the perfect option.

 

Why Choose Gold Filled Jewelry?

If you're looking for stylish, long-lasting pieces without the high price tag of solid gold, gold filled jewelry is your best option. It gives you the same look as solid gold but at a much lower cost. In addition to that, it's durable enough to withstand daily wear including water, sweat, and even beach vacations.

Whether you're shopping for a gold filled necklace or other pieces perfect for your next beach getaway, gold filled jewelry gives you the flexibility to wear beautiful pieces without constantly worrying about damage. Although 14K gold jewelry is more waterproof than gold filled jewelry, many people, including myself, have found that gold filled jewelry is still highly resistant to water. When comparing the price between the two types of jewelry, many people choose gold filled.

If you're searching for inexpensive gold filled jewelry that is durable, fashionable, and water resistant, then take a look at Sealoops gold filled jewelry collection here!  My beach inspired jewelry brand Sealoops offers a variety of jewelry pieces to match your style, including gold filled, gold plated, and sterling silver necklaces.

Best Occasions for Gold Filled Jewelry

Gold filled jewelry is perfect for:

• Beach vacations

• Everyday wear

• Gifts for friends and family

• Special occasions without the high price tag

Its durability makes it ideal for anyone who leads an active lifestyle but still wants to accessorize.

Common Myths About Gold Filled Jewelry

There are plenty of misconceptions about gold filled jewelry, so let's debunk a few:

Myth #1: Gold filled jewelry tarnishes easily.
Truth: Unlike gold-plated jewelry, gold filled pieces have a thick layer of gold, making them resistant to tarnishing.

Myth #2: Gold filled jewelry is low quality.
Truth: Gold filled jewelry offers a balance between quality and affordability. It's durable, hypoallergenic, and long-lasting.

Myth #3: You can't wear gold filled jewelry in water.
Truth: In my personal experience, gold filled jewelry can withstand ocean water, pools, and even showers without losing its shine.

Tips on How to Decide Between 14K Gold and Gold Filled

When choosing between gold filled jewelry and 14K gold, the following considerations should be made:

• Budget: In case luxury and splurging are what you're after, 14K gold is your best option. However, if you desire quality without the hefty price tag, gold filled is the way to go.

• Use: 14K gold is ideal for heirloom pieces or those that you expect to wear daily for decades. Gold filled is great for fashion, everyday jewelry, especially beach jewelry.

• Lifestyle: In case you live an active life and are a beach lover, both jewelry types are great options, it is likely for 14K to last longer though it is much more expensive.

Final Thoughts

Both gold filled jewelry and 14K gold have their place in the world of fine jewelry. If you’re after something luxurious, 14K gold is your go-to. However, if you need inexpensive, durable, everyday jewelry, particularly beach jewelry that can withstand sun, sand, and surf, then utilize gold filled jewelry.

Watch how my Sealoops gold filled necklace survived the ocean, pool, and showers, down below. Then, shop the same look here!

Click here to view how our gold filled necklace looks after a long beach vacation.