Gold-plated chains
More affordable than gold, gold plating is a great alternative for DIY costume jewelry. It has long been a favorite of budget-conscious fans of gold-plated jewelry. Forçat mesh, curb chain, jaseron, Venetian, fine or coarse mesh, our selection covers all projects, from stackable necklaces to statement bracelets.
Gold plating makes it possible to create trendy, high-quality, long-lasting, brilliant jewelry without breaking the bank. All the while retaining the brilliance and elegance of gold.
We've selected a wide range of gold-platedchokers and chains for you. Jaseron chain, Gourmette chain, Forçat chain, Vénitienne chain, fine chain or coarse chain... There's something for everyone!
What is gold plating?
It's an alloy of base metals, usually brass, copper or even silver, coated with a layer of gold (between 14K and 18K), using an electrical or chemical process.
In France, gold plating is subject to legislation. It must have a minimum thickness of 3 microns of gold to be recognized as such.
By way of comparison: below 3 microns, we speak of "gold" or "gold color", with no guarantee or legislation. Above that, we enter the territory of gold filled (laminated gold), where the layer of gold represents at least 5% of the total weight of the coin, which is more durable, but also more expensive.
Differentiating gold from gold plating
How can you tell the difference between gold and gold plating? Here are 3 simple techniques:
- The presence of a hallmark: unlike gold plating, real gold bears a guarantee hallmark (the most common is the eagle's head) and a master hallmark.
Plated gold is marked by a square hallmark with the manufacturer's initials and numbers corresponding to the number of carats used. - Bite the jewel (without breaking your teeth!): real gold is a soft metal, so your teeth should leave a mark, unlike gold-plated.
- The magnet test: depending on its composition, your gold plating may be magnetic. This will never be the case with real gold.
Choosing the mesh for your DIY jewelry
It all depends on the desired effect and the piece to be made:
- Maille forçat: the most classic, sturdy and ideal for pendants, it holds the load best.
- Maille gourmette: flattened, articulated links, with a contemporary, assertive look: perfect as a bracelet or statement necklace.
- Jaseron mesh: interlaced round links, light, fluid effect, for long necklaces or layering.
- Venetian mesh: geometric and textured, it stands on its own without a pendant.
- Chunky mesh: immediate presence, can be worn alone for maximum effect.
3 jewelry ideas with gold-plated chains
- Get inspired by our tutorial on how to make mini gold-plated hoop chains. They're so cute and easy to make.
- Here's a fancy gold-plated necklace with a gemstone that should appeal to fans of minimalist, understated jewelry.
- More the earring type? These ethnic-style dangling earrings are for you!
Which pliers cut gold-plated chain?
A simple pair of jewelry cutters is all you need. Cut cleanly between two links, add a connecting ring and a suitable clasp.
What's the difference between a gold-plated and a gold-plated chain?
A gold-plated chain is coated with between 14K and 18K gold using a chemical or electrical process. The thickness of the plating must be 3 microns of gold. A gold finish contains little or no gold.