Everything you need to know about gold: 18k plating, gold-filled, and recycled gold

In the world of fine jewelry, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate the different terms. Yet, the quality and durability of a piece of jewelry depend directly on its composition and manufacturing process.

At La Maison GISEL B. , we value transparency. Here is a complete guide to help you choose your future treasures with full awareness.

1. 18-Carat Gold Plating: Regulated Elegance

Gold plating is often confused with simply "gilded with fine gold". However, French legislation is very strict on this subject.

Composition and Regulations

To be labeled "Gold Plated" in France, the piece of jewelry must meet two major criteria:

1. Thickness: A layer of gold of at least 3 microns must be deposited on a base metal (usually brass or copper).

2. Purity: The gold used for plating must be genuine gold. 18 karat means that the surface alloy contains 75% pure gold.

Quality and Maintenance

18k gold plating offers the brilliance of solid gold at an affordable price. Its durability depends on the plating thickness: at 3 microns, the piece will withstand everyday wear for several years.

• Care instructions: Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid prolonged contact with salt or chlorinated water to preserve the gold layer.

Discover our creations here.

2. 14-Carat Gold Filled: American Robustness

Gold Filled (or "Laminated Gold") is a technique originating in the United States, even more resistant than classic gold plating.

Composition and Manufacturing

Unlike plating (electrolysis), Gold Filled is manufactured by mechanical pressure . A 14-karat gold layer is hot-soldered onto a brass base.

• Regulations: The gold content must represent at least 1/20th (5%) of the total weight of the piece of jewelry. This is up to 50 to 100 times more gold than in a plated piece!

Quality and Durability

14k gold-filled is the closest alternative to solid gold. It is hypoallergenic and won't flake. It can last a lifetime under normal conditions of use.

• Care instructions: A little soapy water and careful drying are enough to restore its shine.

Learn more: The Essentials, the collection.

3. Recycled Gold: An Eco-Responsible Commitment

Gold mining is one of the most polluting industries in the world. Using recycled gold is now an ethical imperative.

Treatments and Quality

Recycled gold comes from old jewelry, electronic components, or industrial waste. It undergoes a complex refining process:

1. Melting: Gold is melted to separate the metals.

2. Purification: By electrolysis or chemical process, pure gold ( $Au$ ) is isolated from other metals.

3. Remanufacturing: A perfectly pure alloy (18k or 14k) is recreated.

Scientifically, recycled gold is strictly identical to gold extracted from mines. It loses none of its physical or aesthetic properties.

Sustainability and Ecology

Choosing recycled gold drastically reduces the carbon footprint and water consumption associated with mining (which often requires the use of cyanide and mercury). It's a circular approach that preserves our resources.

• Regulation: We work with certified refiners (such as the RJC - Responsible Jewellery Council label) to guarantee the ethical origin of our metals.

Conclusion: A choice of heart and reason

Whether you're drawn to the brilliance of an 18k gold-plated bangle or the durability of a gold-filled necklace, the important thing is to understand what you're wearing. At [Your Store Name], we incorporate recycled gold into our processes to offer you jewelry with meaning.

Have a question about one of our models? Contact our workshop or browse our Latest Arrivals.