I recently came across Aurate’s 14k gold plated vermeil jewelry. While I’ve been a skeptic of vermeil in the past with other brands, Aurate changed my mind. No matter the rate, their products are high quality and come with a life-time guarantee. They also have a “no-questions-asked” return policy so I felt confident I would be happy with their products and their service. Here’s a bit about my experience…
While I’m not someone who works with their hands or gets particularly dirty, I wear makeup, apply sunscreen at least once a day, and commute on foot a few times a week - a tried and true city girl.
I don’t consider my life to be much different than your average jewelry-wearer, but I’ve still had several bad experiences in the past with plated jewelry that tarnished way more quickly than expected or even worse: turned my skin green. This can happen as soon as a few days after buying if you go with the wrong brand. That wasn't Aurate.
Aurate promises that their vermeil can last a lifetime, with proper wear and care. I went on to take a closer look at how Aurate’s vermeil measures up to the rigors of everyday life, and whether it truly remains tarnish-free:
High quality gold plating exceeds industry norms
Aurate’s vermeil pieces are made with a 100% sterling silver base and plated in a minimum of 2.5 microns of 14k recycled gold. If that sounds impressive to you (or maybe it’s gibberish, depending how much you know about jewelry)—the industry standard for gold plating is typically only 10k gold, and on top of pieces that are often made from brass.
Vermeil is really a different beast altogether. Aurate is a cut above the average plating coat used by other jewelry makers.
Their vermeil pieces all come treated with an invisible, anti-tarnish coat, an additional protective layer designed to shield the gold from the effects of oxidation caused by household cleaning products, soaps, make-up, sunscreen, and other everyday substances or chemicals the jewelry might touch, including your own skin.
Aurate’s Infinity Ring and Modern Cigar Band both caught my eye. Both are pieces I want to never take off my fingers because they go with everything. And since I’m hell-bent on keeping my gold looking good, I'm glad to know I can still wash my hands and go about my day while wearing it without worrying about compromising that sparkle. ✨
Luxury design without the luxury price tag
Now, let's talk about the price. I’m cost conscious by nature—especially in this economy—and I’m always on the lookout for high quality items that don’t make my bank account cry. 💸
Aurate strikes the perfecta balance between luxury and affordability. Their vermeil gold offers a chic, high end look at a more reasonable price point. Personally, it’s a relief to know that I can treat myself to something beautiful without feeling guilty about it. Case and point: one of my other product faves is Aurate’s Paperclip Chain Necklace. It’s exactly my style and priced at only $160.
A strong focus on sustainability and environmental impact
In the jewelry and fashion industry ethical concerns are a big question mark for most brands out there. And, I think we can all agree that as a society, we need to start caring a whole lot more about where our products come from and how they’re made.
Aurate's commitment to using (100%!) recycled gold in their vermeil gold line certainly aligns with my values. By minimizing the demand for newly mined gold, they're taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and take some of the pressure off the environment.
It's a small but significant contribution towards a more sustainable world, especially in a world where many companies are greenwashing, or worse - simply just not taking responsibility for the effects of their production.
You can test these pieces out yourself—risk-free
In my opinion and experience, it’s quite a bold and powerful statement when a company offers a lifetime guarantee! Aurate has the highest degree of confidence in the durability of their jewelry. However, the team knows that accidents happen, and things can break or lose their shine. If anything goes wrong, they'll take care of it.
The final verdict:
Given my past experiences with gold plating, my skepticism feels warranted, but not with Aurate’s gold vermeil selection. I’ve already got a few new pieces added-to-cart. 😍 Here are some of my other favorites (p.s all are great for layering & stacking!):
