Gold Necklace

Gold necklaces, mostly personalized — engraved names, initials, birthstones and bars, plus hearts, crosses and plain chains. All 18K gold vermeil at 3 microns over solid sterling silver, or gold plated. Vermeil is 3.0 microns of gold over solid sterling silver; gold plated is 0.5 microns over brass, against a 0.2 micron industry standard, at a lower price. 14 to 20 inches, from $46.

Gold Necklace Questions

Are these real gold?

Real gold over solid sterling silver — that's what vermeil means, and it's not the same as solid gold. Vermeil legally requires 2.5 microns of gold; ours is 3.0. Standard gold plating is 0.2 microns and most "gold plated" jewelry is 0.5. It isn't 14k solid and we won't call it that.

Are gold necklaces always stamped?

Solid gold usually is — 14k, 585, 750. Vermeil and plated pieces often aren't, because a stamp refers to the base metal rather than the coating, and there's rarely room on a fine chain. An unstamped necklace isn't automatically fake; ask what's underneath instead of hunting for a mark.

Can gold necklaces get wet?

Water is fine. Chlorine is the real problem for any gold plating, and salt water is nearly as bad. Showering in one is survivable if you dry it; swimming in it shortens its life measurably. Soap film collecting in chain links dulls the finish faster than wear does.

Are gold necklaces a good investment?

No, and that's true of nearly all jewelry rather than a comment on these. Even solid gold jewelry sells back near scrap value because you're paying for making, not metal. Buy it because you'll wear it. If you want gold as an asset, that's bullion, not a necklace.

Will it turn my neck green?

No. That reaction comes from copper reaching skin through thin plating. Vermeil has none — it is gold over solid sterling silver. The plated pieces run 0.5 microns over brass, against a 0.2 micron industry standard. What does happen to any plating over time is gradual dulling, and perfume and hairspray accelerate it. On last, off first.

What length should I buy?

18 inches for most pendants — it sits just below the collarbone and suits most necklines. 16 sits at the throat. Go 20 for layering underneath something shorter, or if you want it over a crewneck.

See also gold name necklaces, gold chain necklaces, gold cross necklaces and all necklaces.