Vermeil
Gold over sterling — and the term is legally defined, which is why cheap "gold over brass" cannot use it.
| Property | Value | Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Karat | Coating at least 10K [1] | § 23.4(b) |
| US legal requirement | Requires a base of STERLING SILVER coated on all significant surfaces with gold of at least 10 karat fineness, of reasonable durability, at a minimum thickness equivalent to 2.5 microns of fine gold. Gold over a base metal such as nickel may not be called vermeil without disclosure. [1] | § 23.4(b) and Note 1 |
| Tarnishes | Yes [1] The sterling core can tarnish where the gold layer wears through. | § 23.4 |
Sources
- 16 CFR Part 23 — Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries — U.S. Government Publishing Office (16 CFR Part 23)