Micron Plating
The thickness of a plated layer, in thousandths of a millimetre. The single number that determines how long a finish lasts.
One micron is a thousandth of a millimetre. Jewellery plating typically ranges from 0.25 to 3 microns.
Under 0.5 microns is flash plating, suitable for occasional-wear pieces. From 1 to 2.5 microns is a serious finish. Above 2.5 microns is often marketed as heavy gold plating.
Wear concentrates at friction points, so a ring loses plating far faster than a pendant with identical plating.
When you are buying
For an everyday piece, 2 microns or more is the threshold worth paying for. Below 1 micron, expect the colour to change within a year of regular wear.
Gold Plating
A thin layer of gold deposited over a base metal. Gives the colour of gold at a fraction of the cost, and wears off over time.
Gold Vermeil
Gold plating over sterling silver rather than base metal, at a defined minimum thickness. The best of the plated family.
Rhodium Plating
A thin layer of rhodium over silver or white gold, giving a bright white finish that resists tarnish.