MEVECCO Double Layered Chain 18K Gold Plated Necklace

Jewelry sales are on the rise, having begun to recover from a pandemic-era slump. In fact, sales are even exceeding pre-pandemic levels, with retailers reporting strong demand and solid sales in 2021.

One of the most popular materials for jewelry is gold. Unfortunately, pure 24-karat gold is too soft for making into jewelry. That means the gold pieces you buy feature gold mixed with an alloy that strengthens it. Most commonly, “pure gold” necklaces feature 14-karat gold, but 14-karat gold necklaces can be pricey. As a more affordable alternative, jewelers will use gold plating, which offers the appearance of gold without having to rely solely on expensive metals.

With gold plating, a piece of jewelry will have an alloy core made of materials like copper or brass. Gold is then applied to the outside using a process called electroplating. The gold does offer the interior a level of protection, but this type of jewelry is more likely to tarnish than pieces made from only gold. In some cases, silver is used as the base metal and coated in gold. This plating is called vermeil.

Genuine gold jewelry will feature markings to help you identify the gold content. You’ll see 14K, 18K or 24K marked on the piece itself. To be marked 24K, jewelry needs to be at least 99.99 percent pure gold. At 18K, it’s at least 75 percent, while 14K jewelry is at least 58.3 percent. Regulations now allow jewelers to sell gold pieces that are 10 karat, but those will at least need to be 41.7 percent pure gold to qualify for the 10K marking.

Gold jewelry will also sometimes have ornamentation to dress it up or make it stand out. You can find gold necklaces with pendants, and some are even customizable to help you create a look that works for you. This can be a great option if you’re purchasing a necklace for a gift.

• While gold-plated jewelry can look and feel like gold, it’s typically best for occasional wear. If you’re buying a necklace you plan to wear while sleeping, showering or swimming, you’ll want pure gold mixed with a gold alloy.
• You can find hollow gold chains, but they tend to lack the durability you’ll get with a more solid option. For everyday wear, it’s best to avoid hollow jewelry.
• If you opt for a necklace with gold plating, be aware that the plating can rub off over time.
• For those with metal allergies, 14K gold is the best option. Even if you’re purchasing 24K gold jewelry, if the metal alloys combined with it aren’t 14K gold, you can’t be guaranteed a hypoallergenic option.
• Necklaces vary in length. Measure your favorite necklace and note the exact millimeters. You can use that as a reference point as you’re buying. Necklaces sometimes come with expanders that can extend them by a couple of inches.
• Some necklaces feature pendants that can be customized with an initial or selected from a series of shapes.
• If you’re searching for a gold necklace as a gift, consider how you’ll package it. You can find some that come with gift bags or boxes specifically for that purpose. You can purchase gift boxes separately, but this is a layer of convenience you wouldn’t get otherwise.
• If you plan to wear your necklace around the clock, make sure you choose one that will rest comfortably against your skin. This is especially important if you’ll be wearing it while you sleep.
• Layering multiple gold necklaces can create an interesting look. You’ll need to pick necklaces of varying lengths that look good together. You can buy layered necklaces, and some even allow you to wear them alone or together for some variety.