Frequently asked questions about Palmarhea

What is gold filled jewellery?

Gold filled, or rolled gold, is comprised of a solid brass (copper and zinc) core over which gold is mechanically bonded using heat and pressure. Gold filled items must contain, by law, 5% or 1/20 of gold by weight. The gold used is typically 12k or 14k, however some items use 10k. All of the Palmarhea collection uses 14k gold.

What is the difference between gold filled and gold plate?

The difference between gold filled and gold plated items is the amount of gold used over the brass core. Gold filled items must contain, by law, 5% or 1/20 of gold by weight. In contrast, gold plated items usually contain a microscopic amount of gold. This means the gold layer on gold plated items can peel or flake very easily, exposing the brass core underneath. Because the gold layer on gold filled items is so much thicker, it will not peel or flake and lasts for years.

What stamps are used on gold filled items?

It is a legal requirement in the United States (where much gold filled is manufactured) to stamp, where possible, items which are gold filled. You will see 'GF 14/20' or '1/20 14K GF' indicating the item is 14K gold filled and 1/20 of gold by weight. However, not all items are big enough to stamp (you will find this with sterling silver items too).

Does gold filled tarnish?

Many people think that gold and gold filled does not tarnish. Unfortunately, this is incorrect. Pure gold (24k gold) does not tarnish because it is not alloyed (mixed) with other metals, but all other karats of gold are alloyed with other metals and this is why tarnishing may occur. The higher the karat of gold the less likely it is to discolour (tarnish). Very little tarnishing will be observed in 14K gold, and it may take years before discolouration occurs. The most common causes of tarnishing are: oxidation, exposure to sulphur, differing body chemistries and exposure to perfume, hairspray, cleaning agents etc. Taking care of your jewellery and proper storage are the best methods to avoid tarnishing.