Published

Gold Jewelry Nomenclature

What is the difference between gold-filled and gold electroplate?

Share

Q. I recently got into a discussion with a coworker regarding the difference between gold-filled and gold electroplate. Is there a difference, and, if so, what is it? —E.N.

A. Yes, there is a difference between “gold-filled” and “gold electroplate.” If an object is labeled gold-filled, the gold must be mechanically bonded to the basis metal. This bonding is usually by rolling, soldering or drawing. Objects that are gold-plated cannot be labeled gold-filled. A gold deposit that is more than 0.0001-inch thick can be labeled “heavy gold electroplate.” Gold-filled objects have a thicker layer of gold compared with gold-plated objects.

RELATED CONTENT

  • Cleaning, Pretreatment to Meet Medical Specs ISO 13485 or FDA 21 CFR820

    Maximilian Kessler from SurTec explains new practices for industrial parts cleaning, metal pretreatment and decorative electroplating in the medical device industry.

  • Masking for Surface Finishing

    Masking is employed in most any metal finishing operation where only a specifically defined area of the surface of a part must be exposed to a process. Conversely, masking may be employed on a surface where treatment is either not required or must be avoided. This article covers the many aspects of masking for metal finishing, including applications, methods and the various types of masking employed.

  • Sizing Heating and Cooling Coils

    Why is it important for you to know this?