Short answer: for everyday gold jewellery you can wear in water, stainless steel with 18K gold PVD plating is the most practical choice. It is waterproof, tarnish-resistant, hypoallergenic and affordable. Gold vermeil and sterling silver are precious metals, but both need more care, and standard gold-plated brass is the least durable.
Here's how the four most common materials compare, so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Quick comparison
| Material | Waterproof? | Tarnishes? | Sensitive skin | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel + 18K gold PVD | Yes | Tarnish-resistant | Hypoallergenic | £ |
| Gold vermeil (gold on sterling silver) | Best kept dry | Silver base can tarnish | Usually fine | ££ |
| Sterling silver (925) | Best kept dry | Yes, oxidises over time | Usually fine | ££ |
| Gold-plated brass | No | Plating fades quickly | Can turn skin green | £ |
What is stainless steel gold jewellery?
This is a stainless steel base, usually 316 grade, coated with real gold. At Elnora London we use 316 stainless steel with 18K gold applied by PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition), which bonds the gold to the steel for a harder, longer-lasting finish.
Pros: 100% waterproof, tarnish-resistant, lightweight, hypoallergenic, affordable.
Cons: not a precious metal, so it isn't hallmarked like silver or gold.
Want the details? Read Is 18K gold PVD jewellery waterproof?
What is gold vermeil?
Gold vermeil is sterling silver covered with a thicker layer of gold than standard plating. It feels premium and is a precious-metal piece, but the silver underneath can still tarnish, and most vermeil brands recommend taking it off before showering or swimming.
Pros: precious-metal base, thicker gold layer.
Cons: higher price, needs to be kept dry, gold can wear through over time.
Is sterling silver good for everyday wear?
Sterling silver (92.5% silver) is a classic precious metal, but it naturally reacts with air, sweat and water. Over time it darkens and needs regular polishing.
Pros: precious metal, hallmarked, timeless.
Cons: tarnishes, softer and scratches more easily, best kept out of water.
What's wrong with gold-plated brass?
Most budget fashion jewellery is brass or copper with a very thin electroplated gold layer. It looks good at first, but water, sweat and perfume wear the plating away. The copper underneath can then turn skin green.
Pros: cheapest option.
Cons: fades quickly, not waterproof, can irritate sensitive skin.
Which jewellery material should I choose?
- You want to wear it every day, including in the shower or gym: stainless steel with 18K gold PVD.
- You have sensitive skin: stainless steel or solid gold.
- You want a hallmarked precious metal and don't mind extra care: sterling silver or gold vermeil.
- You need something for one outfit only: gold-plated brass can do the job.
Frequently asked questions
Is stainless steel jewellery better than sterling silver?
For everyday wear, yes in most ways. Stainless steel is waterproof, more scratch-resistant and doesn't tarnish, while sterling silver oxidises and is best kept dry. Sterling silver is a precious metal, so it holds more intrinsic value.
Is gold vermeil waterproof?
Generally not. Most vermeil brands recommend removing it before showering or swimming to protect the gold layer and the silver underneath.
Does stainless steel gold jewellery look cheap?
Not when it's finished with real 18K gold PVD. The colour is a rich, warm gold that sits comfortably alongside solid-gold pieces. See our full collection.
What is Elnora London jewellery made of?
Every Elnora London piece is 316 stainless steel with 18K real gold PVD plating: waterproof, tarnish-resistant and hypoallergenic, from £19.99.
