About gold filled, gold plated and rhodium plated

Gold filled is a jewelry-making technique where a thick layer of solid gold is mechanically bonded to a base metal core, typically brass, through heat and pressure, with the gold layer making up at least 5% of the item's total weight. This process results in a durable, long-lasting, and more affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry. Tarnishing is often caused by exposure to moisture, oils, chemicals, pollution, and body chemistry.

Gold plated brass is a type of jewelry or accessory where a layer of gold is electroplated onto a base of brass. Brass is a copper and zinc alloy with a natural golden hue that is strong, durable, and malleable, making it an ideal base metal. Gold plated brass can tarnish because the gold layer is thin and wears off, allowing the base brass to react with moisture, perspiration, and chemicals, leading to discoloration.

Rhodium plated brass is brass coated with a thin layer of rhodium, a precious metal from the platinum family. The rhodium provides a durable, scratch-resistant, high-shine, white finish, enhancing the appearance of the brass base. Rhodium plated brass jewelry itself will not tarnish because the rhodium layer does not corrode or tarnish. However, the plating is a thin layer that can wear off over time due to friction, body chemistry, perfumes, or harsh chemicals, revealing the brass metal underneath. Once the plating is gone, the brass, which is primarily copper and zinc, can corrode and may cause green or dark marks on your skin.