Gold-Filled vs. 18K PVD: What's the Difference & Why We Love Both

Gold-Filled vs. 18K PVD: What's the Difference & Why We Love Both

At SayLaVee, we’re all about creating jewelry that lasts—not just in quality, but in meaning. Whether you're buying for yourself or someone you love, we know you want pieces that shine, feel amazing, and stand the test of time.

That’s why we’ve chosen two standout materials for our collections: 14K Gold-Filled and 18K Gold PVD Stainless Steel. Both are beautiful, durable, and designed for real life. But they each have their own unique strengths.

Let’s break it down so you can find the perfect match (or wear both—because why not?).


✨ What is 14K Gold-Filled?

Gold-filled jewelry is crafted by bonding a thick layer of solid 14K gold to a core of jeweler’s brass using heat and pressure. It contains 100x more real gold than standard gold plating, making it a long-lasting, high-quality option that gives you the look and feel of solid gold—without the solid gold price.

Perks of 14K Gold-Filled Jewelry:

  • Affordable luxury: Real 14K gold at a fraction of the cost

  • Water-resistant: Safe for everyday wear and occasional splashes

  • Long-lasting: With proper care, it can last for years without tarnishing

  • Hypoallergenic: Great for sensitive skin

  • Perfect for layering: Lightweight and delicate without compromising quality


💛 What is 18K Gold PVD Stainless Steel?

PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition, a high-tech process that bonds a thick layer of 18K gold to stainless steel using vacuum coating. It’s 10x more durable than traditional gold plating, making it ideal for active lifestyles and non-stop wear.

Perks of 18K Gold PVD Jewelry:

  • Waterproof & sweatproof: Swim, shower, and sweat without worry

  • Tarnish-resistant: Won’t flake, fade, or turn your skin green

  • Bold shine: The rich look of 18K gold that holds up over time

  • Low-maintenance: No need to baby it—this stuff is tough

  • Hypoallergenic: Nickel-free and skin-safe


🔍 So, What’s the Difference?

Feature 14K Gold-Filled 18K Gold PVD Stainless Steel
Gold Content Thick layer of 14K gold Thick layer of 18K gold via PVD coating
Base Metal Jeweler’s brass Stainless steel
Durability Very durable with proper care Extremely durable & resistant to water/sweat
Water Resistance Water-resistant (avoid chlorine, salt) 100% Waterproof
Look & Feel Soft, warm gold tone Bold, high-shine 18K finish
Best For Classic, elegant layering & gifting Everyday, low-maintenance, adventure-ready wear


🛍 Which One is Right for You?

  • Love layering delicate chains or giving meaningful gifts? Gold-filled is your go-to.

  • Want worry-free wear that keeps up with your busy, bold life? Go with PVD.

Or honestly? Do both. Our collections are made to mix, match, and move with you—because your story isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your jewelry shouldn’t be either.


✨ In the End…

Whether you fall for the soft glow of 14K gold-filled or the stay-all-day strength of 18K PVD, you’re choosing quality, meaning, and style. And that’s what SayLaVee is all about.

Because life’s too short for jewelry you have to take off.



On the footer the online fundraising needs to be removed.


Thanks