One-Gram Gold vs. Gold-Plated Jewellery: What's the Difference?
If you're shopping for affordable gold-look jewellery, you've probably come across two very similar-sounding terms: one-gram gold and gold-plated. They are not the same thing — and the difference shows up the very first month you wear the piece.
The short answer
Gold-plated jewellery has a flash-thin coat of gold over a base metal — often microns of a micron. One-gram gold jewellery uses a much thicker, measurable layer of real gold bonded to a stronger base alloy, which is why it can survive daily wear without flaking or fading.
Side-by-side comparison
| What you're comparing | Gold-plated | One-gram gold |
|---|---|---|
| Gold thickness | Flash coating, often < 0.5 microns | Thicker, measurable layer of real gold |
| Daily-wear lifespan | Fades in weeks to a few months | Holds colour for years with simple care |
| Skin reaction | Base metal exposes as plating wears | Hypoallergenic, safe for daily wear |
| Look & finish | Looks great on day one, dulls fast | Traditional gold weight and warmth |
| Price | Cheapest, but you replace it often | Affordable, lasts long — better value |
Which one should you buy?
If you only need a piece for a single event, gold-plated will do. For everyday chains, earrings and bridal sets you want to keep wearing, one-gram gold is the better choice — you get the same traditional gold look without locking real gold away in a safe.
How Sri Maguva makes it
Every Sri Maguva piece is hand-finished in small batches with a thick layer of real gold over a sturdy base, so the shine stays put. They're light enough to wear all day and built to be worn — not stored.