Vermeil refers to sterling silver that has been plated with gold. The gold plating must be at least 10 karats and a minimum of 2.5 microns thick to be considered genuine vermeil. As an example, a piece of jewelry described as vermeil features a base of sterling silver coated with a layer of gold meeting those specific standards.
This combination offers a balance of affordability and aesthetic appeal. Sterling silver provides a durable and valuable base metal, while the gold layer imparts the look and feel of solid gold. Historically, this technique allowed artisans to create gilded objects without the expense of using solid gold entirely. It allows for intricate designs and a luxurious finish without the cost associated with pure gold items.