Gold filled jewelry comprises a base metal, commonly brass, mechanically bonded with a layer of gold. This bonding process utilizes heat and pressure to create a durable and unified material. The gold layer, which must constitute at least 5% of the jewelry’s total weight, provides a surface appearance akin to solid gold. For example, a gold filled chain might have a brass core clad in a 14k gold layer.
The value of gold filled items stems from the significant layer of genuine gold, offering a cost-effective alternative to solid gold pieces. This construction allows for a more accessible price point while retaining a visual appeal similar to that of purer gold. Historically, this technique emerged as a method to extend the use of precious metals, making aesthetically pleasing and durable jewelry more widely available.