Introduction
When shopping for jewellery, you have a variety of metal options and you’ll likely come across the terms brass and gold plated. But what do they actually mean, and which one is right for you? In this guide, we break down the key differences to help you make an informed choice.
What is Brass Jewellery?
Brass is a metal alloy made from copper and zinc. It has a warm, golden tone that makes it a popular and affordable alternative to gold. Brass jewellery is durable, easy to work with, and widely used in fashion jewellery.
Pros of Brass:
- Affordable price point
- Durable and long-lasting
- Warm golden appearance
- Easy to shape into intricate designs
Cons of Brass:
- Can tarnish over time, but can be brought back to its golden colour.
- May cause skin reactions in those sensitive to copper or zinc
- Not as lustrous as gold
What is Gold Plated Jewellery?
Gold plated jewellery is made from a base metal (often brass or silver) that is coated with a thin layer of real gold. The thickness of the gold layer is measured in microns — the thicker the layer, the longer the plating will last.
Pros of Gold Plated:
- Has the look and feel of real gold
- More affordable than solid gold
- Wide variety of styles available
Cons of Gold Plated:
- Plating can wear off over time
- Requires more careful maintenance
- May need re-plating after extended wear
Which Should You Choose?
If you're looking for everyday, affordable pieces with a golden look, brass jewellery is a great option. If you want something that closely mimics the appearance of solid gold and are happy to care for it properly, gold plated jewellery is the way to go, but unlike brass it’s not a forever metal, meaning brass will stay a beautiful golden tone forever.
At Kaioko, we carefully select our materials to ensure every piece is beautiful, wearable, and worth your investment. We choose brass for its beautiful golden tone and we love that it will last a lifetime. Explore our collection to find your perfect piece.