Gold fill is made up of an inner base metal with a layer of 10 or 14 karat gold pressure bonded onto it. The layer of gold is very thick compared to gold plate and usually lasts a lifetime without tarnishing or rubbing off, whereas gold plate rubs off quite quickly with use. Some components I use are gold vermeil, which is gold-plated sterling silver.

Where there is likely to be heavy wear, ie in jewellery, I use 14k gold fill where possible. For tiaras I tend to use gold plate as wear is much lighter. Please see the item’s individual description for details on the material used.