Gold-filled jewelry refers to a process in which a layer of karat gold is heat- and pressure-bonded to a base metal layer. This process keeps the metal tarnish-resistant because it completely covers the surface of the base metal. The gold alloy is bonded to one or both surfaces of the brass core with heat and pressure. The bonded raw material is sold as a sheet or wire to jewelry manufacturers for use in designs. 

Gold-filled consists of material constructed in two or three layers. Depending on whether the material is single or double-clad, the layering will differ; 

Single-clad gold-filled has all the gold content in a single layer on one side.

Double-clad material splits the gold content into surface layers on both sides of the material.

With the proper care, gold-filled jewelry is a highly durable option. This jewelry contains 100% more gold than gold-plated jewelry, making it resistant to everyday tarnishing and wear and tear. Gold-filled jewelry is also generally safe for wearers with sensitivities to common metals. However, it's essential to consider that the longevity of gold-filled jewelry is dependent on the wear, environment, and quality of the piece. Gold is generally a soft metal; therefore, wear it with care to avoid bending, dents, and scratches. 

All jewelry wearers will be aware of the dreaded tarnish. But what exactly is tarnish, and how does jewelry experience tarnishing? Tarnish is a thin layer of corrosion that forms over metals. Tarnish results from a chemical reaction of the metal and non-metal compounds such as moisture, air, or chemical compounds. The result is a dark tinge/discoloration of your jewelry. Metals can tarnish over time when exposed to chemicals such as water, hair spray, perfume, and lotions. Although tarnish can occur to gold-filled jewelry, it's an infrequent occurrence, as this type of jewelry is tarnish-resistant. And the more committed you are to the care of your jewelry, the longer it lasts. In the next section, let's look at some cleaning tips to prevent tarnish, scratches, and general wear and tear. 

The more diligent you are with cleaning and caring for your gold-filled jewelry, the longer it will last and stay in perfect condition. To avoid damage, do your best to avoid water, perfume, hair spray, and lotions while wearing your jewelry. These oils and particles may transfer to the metal, causing it to lose its brightness. But don't worry; by following a few simple cleaning steps, you will have the luster and shine back in your jewelry in no time! Try the following tips: 

• Use a soft jewelry brush and a solution of water and unscented dish soap.

• Gently clean your jewelry, rinse well, pat dry, and let it air dry.

• Make sure your jewelry is completely dry before putting it away. 

• Please store your jewelry in a small plastic bag when you are not wearing it to protect it from chemicals from the environment & moisture. 

• Do not apply make-up, perfume, or hairspray while wearing gold-plated jewelry.

• Remove any gold-plated rings and bracelets while preparing acidic foods.

• Do not swim in chlorinated or salt-water pools while wearing gold-plated jewelry.

• Remove gold-plated pieces before exercising to prevent the salts from sweat from damaging the gold. 

• Don't carry gold-plated jewelry tossed in a purse or mingled with other pieces to prevent scratching.