Vermeil and the quality of Art'emi jewelry
Vermeil is a precious metal made of silver coated with gold. It should be noted that this material was long shunned by women. Today, the situation has changed. This material excites designers and is beloved by enthusiasts.
But what really made it famous is that since 1912, vermeil has been the metal used for the gold medals at the Olympic Games.
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The main difference between vermeil and gold-plated jewelry is that vermeil has a silver base; while plated pieces can be made with a variety of metals (metal or plastic, for example). This is why the former is considered more precious.
Ancient civilizations were highly inventive in developing their own gold plating processes. The Greeks and then the Romans used techniques of "superposition," folding, or hammering on a gold or silver sheet. The first true objects in vermeil were invented by the Incas.
Gold is omnipresent among the Incas; it symbolizes their worship of the Sun God, whose representative on Earth is the Emperor. Gold is often worked with silver, which symbolizes the Moon. It is a meeting between the moon and the sun.
Origin and birth of vermeil
The history of vermeil dates back to ancient times, especially Antiquity, with gilding techniques as they are known today.
The word comes from the Late Latin "vermis," which means "cochineal" and refers to the scarlet color produced by this insect. Gold vermeil, or simply vermeil, is a term used to describe jewelry or other silver items coated with gold.
The method used to cover the surface of the piece with gold is called electrolysis. So it is gold-plated silver. As a precious metal, it is subject to strict French customs regulations regarding its composition.
The silver used is called solid and must be at least 800 thousandths (minimum standard). The gold layer must be of high quality and at least 5 microns thick, with a minimum purity of 750 thousandths (18 carats).
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At Art'emi, we have chosen vermeil made of 18-carat gold, so that your jewelry is more beautiful and lasts longer.
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A material with many facets
Vermeil is a very interesting compromise at a time when the price of gold is soaring, as its appearance and shine perfectly imitate it. Thus, while these pieces of jewelry had been neglected in favor of other precious metals
they are now making a comeback stronger than ever. Vermeil wedding anniversaries symbolize 45 years of marriage, a vermeil jewelry is the perfect gift for this event.
Moreover, vermeil jewelry is often paired with fine or precious stones. Bright colors can be combined with the golden color of the plating.
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Vermeil is a precious metal with great durability. The combination of the two metals that compose it
- solid silver
- and gold,
it provides resistance significantly superior to plated metals, often used in jewelry. It also has the particularity of being a much lighter metal than gold. Your earrings and/or other jewelry will never be heavy to wear, regardless of their size. Finally, it is made of two precious non-allergenic metals. Wear your jewelry without fear of an allergic reaction.
Moreover, vermeil requires little maintenance. However, like any metal, it can suffer shocks, scratch, or tarnish over time. Take care of it!
If you are looking for a jewelry engraving workshop in Brussels, welcome to Art’emi. In addition to offering you a variety of unique and original creations, we also offer personalization of your jewelry. Thanks to our engraving workshop in Brussels, you are free to engrave a name, a date, a design, or a text on your jewelry in just 24 hours.
To create an engraving on your signet ring, on your ring, on your chain, or on your watch, our jewelry workshop in Brussels has the experience and expertise needed. From personalized engravings on silver to engravings on stone or metal: we can engrave any type of jewelry.
Engraving to personalize your Vermeil jewelry
Personalizing a piece of jewelry is a wonderful way to make your bracelet, chain, or medallion unique.
By choosing engraving, you opt for originality. Moreover, engraved jewelry is often symbolic. Depending on the message you inscribe, your jewelry will have a very strong sentimental value.
Thus, in addition to being aesthetically refined, your jewelry will carry a unique message. This is precisely why engraved jewelry is such a special gift.
If you wish, we advise you on the ideal engraving to make on your jewelry. Depending on the material, shape, type of jewelry, and the meaning you want to give to your engraved piece, we provide you with engraving ideas for women's jewelry, men's jewelry, or a gift to offer your partner, for example.
Nevertheless, you are the sole decision-maker: we create the engraving you want. At Art’emi, we want to create a piece of jewelry that reflects you.
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FAQ
What is vermeil?
Vermeil is a precious metal made of a 925 solid silver base covered with a thick layer of 18-carat gold.
Unlike classic gold-plated jewelry, it guarantees superior quality, better durability over time, and a visual appearance close to solid gold.
At Art’emi, each piece is designed to reveal a perfect balance of finesse, durability, and shine.
What is the difference between vermeil and gold plating?
The difference lies in the quality of the base metal and the thickness of the gold layer.
Vermeil uses solid silver, a noble metal, and benefits from a thicker gold plating.
Gold plating, on the other hand, is usually done on a brass base with a thinner layer of gold.
Result: vermeil offers superior resistance, better durability, and a more precious feel when worn.
Does vermeil last over time?
Yes. Vermeil is designed to last while evolving with you.
Its longevity depends on use and care:
With careful wear, it retains its shine for several years.
Over time, the gold plating may slightly soften—a natural process that is part of the jewelry’s life.
Each piece can be re-gilded in the workshop, restoring its original brilliance.
How to care for vermeil jewelry?
To preserve its shine:
Avoid contact with water, perfumes, and chemicals
Remove it before sports or showering
Store it in a soft case, away from moisture
Simple care keeps the jewelry’s shine and sophistication.
Is vermeil suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes. Thanks to its silver and gold composition, vermeil is generally well tolerated.
It is an ideal alternative for those looking for jewelry that is elegant, precious, and comfortable for everyday wear.
Discover the origins and creation of vermeil, this precious metal made of silver covered with gold. Learn more about this little-known material.
