What is gold filled jewelry?

Gold filled jewelry is made with a substantial layer of real gold mechanically bonded to a base metal core under heat and pressure. It contains significantly more gold than standard gold-plated jewelry and is designed to withstand regular wear much better than a thin plated finish.

Standing O primarily works with 12kt and 14kt gold filled because it offers the look and feel of real gold at the surface, greater durability than standard gold plating and a more accessible price than solid gold.

Is Standing O jewelry solid gold?

No. Most Standing O gold jewelry is gold filled rather than solid gold. Gold filled contains a genuine layer of 12kt or 14kt gold bonded to a base metal core, giving you real gold at the surface with greater durability than standard gold plating.

There are, however, a few pieces that contain solid gold components, such as select garnet and white topaz stone settings. These materials are specified in the individual product descriptions.

What is the difference between 12kt, 14kt and 18kt gold filled?

The karat number refers to the purity of the gold alloy used in the outer layer. Higher-karat gold generally has a richer, more yellow appearance.

Standing O primarily works with 12kt and 14kt gold filled.

Karat alone does not determine the quality of gold-filled jewelry. The construction and amount of gold used also matter. In both Canada and the United States, qualifying gold-filled material generally uses gold of at least 10 karat, with a gold layer that accounts for at least 1/20 of the article's total weight.

Because the term "gold filled" is not always used consistently across the global jewelry market, Standing O sources gold-filled materials from established suppliers and clearly lists the materials used in each design.

Does gold filled jewelry need to be stamped or marked?

A gold-filled stamp or tag can provide useful information about a piece, but the absence of a stamp does not by itself tell you whether the material is genuine gold filled.

Standing O does not add a separate "14K GF" or gold-filled tag to every finished piece. Adding a separate tag increases the cost of producing the jewelry without changing the quality of the material itself. Many Standing O designs also combine gold filled with pearls, gemstones, beads, leather, paracord or other materials, so applying a blanket gold-filled mark to the finished piece could give the impression that the entire design is made from one material.

Instead, Standing O identifies the materials used in each design on its individual product page and sources gold-filled chain and components from established jewelry suppliers.

When evaluating gold-filled jewelry, consider the material specifications and construction of the piece rather than relying on a stamp alone.

Gold plated vs. heavy gold plated vs. vermeil vs. gold filled vs. solid gold: what's the difference?

They all contain or use gold differently, and that difference affects durability, price and how the jewelry wears over time.

Material	What it is	Durability	Standing O uses it?
Gold Plated	A thin layer of gold applied over a base metal	The finish can wear with regular use	No
Heavy Gold Plated	A thicker plated gold finish over a base metal	More durable than standard plating, but still a plated finish	On select pieces
Gold Vermeil	Gold plated over sterling silver	More durable than basic plating, but the surface layer can still wear	No
Gold Filled	A substantial layer of real gold mechanically bonded to a base metal core	Designed to withstand regular wear much better than standard plating	Yes, Standing O's primary gold material
Solid Gold	Gold alloy throughout the entire piece rather than a surface layer	Highest long-term durability	Used in select settings where specified

For jewelry meant to be worn often, gold filled offers a strong balance between durability, real gold content and price.

Technical note: In both Canada and the United States, jewelry that qualifies as gold filled generally has a gold layer of at least 10 karat that accounts for at least 1/20 of the total weight of the article. In other words, the qualifying gold-alloy layer represents at least 5% of the article's weight. The karat designation, such as 12kt or 14kt, refers to the purity of the gold alloy used in that layer.

What is gold vermeil?

Gold vermeil is sterling silver coated with gold.

Unlike gold filled, the gold remains a plated surface rather than a mechanically bonded layer and can gradually wear with repeated use.

Vermeil vs. gold filled: which is better?

The better choice depends on what you value and how you plan to wear the jewelry.

For jewelry intended for frequent wear, Standing O primarily uses gold filled because its bonded gold layer generally withstands everyday use better than a plated finish while remaining considerably more accessible than solid gold.

Gold vermeil has its own advantages, including a sterling silver base, but its gold remains a plated surface that can wear over time.

Is gold filled real gold?

Yes. Gold filled jewelry contains a genuine layer of real gold mechanically bonded to a base metal core.

It is not solid gold, but it is also very different from gold-toned or standard gold-plated jewelry, where only a thin surface coating of gold is applied.

Does gold filled jewelry tarnish?

Gold filled jewelry is highly resistant to tarnish and generally holds its finish much longer than standard gold-plated or vermeil jewelry, but no jewelry is completely immune to wear.

Skin chemistry and repeated exposure to chlorine, salt water, sweat, perfume, lotions and household chemicals can affect jewelry over time. Proper care will help preserve its finish for as long as possible.

Can I shower, swim or work out in gold filled jewelry?

To maximize the lifespan of gold-filled jewelry, Standing O recommends removing it before showering, swimming or exercising.

In real life, many gold-filled pieces can tolerate occasional exposure without an immediate issue. However, chlorine, salt water, sweat and personal-care products can all contribute to wear over time. The less unnecessary exposure your jewelry receives, the better it will age.

Does gold filled jewelry last?

Yes. With proper care, quality gold filled jewelry is designed for regular, long-term wear and generally lasts much longer than standard plated jewelry.

How long an individual piece lasts depends on how often it is worn, skin chemistry and its exposure to water, sweat, cosmetics and chemicals. Because real-life wear varies from person to person, Standing O does not promise a fixed number of years.

Is gold filled jewelry worth it?

For people who want the look and feel of real gold without the price of solid gold, quality gold filled jewelry can offer very good long-term value.

Gold filled contains substantially more gold than standard gold-plated jewelry and is designed to withstand regular wear much better than a thin plated finish. When properly made and cared for, it can remain in your jewelry rotation for years, which is why it generally costs more than standard plated jewelry.

Quality matters, however. Karat alone does not determine gold-filled quality, and not all products marketed as gold filled are necessarily manufactured to the same specifications. It is worth looking at the materials, construction and information provided by the seller when comparing pieces.

Standing O primarily works with 12kt and 14kt gold filled sourced for quality and longevity. Learn more about why Standing O chooses materials designed for long-term wear.

Is gold filled jewelry good for sensitive skin? Is it hypoallergenic?

Gold filled is often well tolerated by people with skin sensitivities because the skin comes into contact primarily with a substantial layer of real gold rather than exposed base metal. However, skin sensitivities and metal allergies vary, so Standing O does not describe any jewelry material as universally hypoallergenic.

If you have a known metal allergy or particularly sensitive skin, check the materials listed on the individual product page or contact Standing O before ordering. For healing piercings or severe metal sensitivities, materials specifically recommended for those uses may be a better choice.

How do I care for gold filled jewelry?

Clean gold filled jewelry gently with mild dish soap and warm water, rinse thoroughly and dry completely before storing.

Avoid abrasive polishing cloths or harsh jewelry cleaners unless they are specifically recommended for gold filled jewelry, as aggressive polishing and chemicals can contribute to surface wear over time.

Removing your jewelry before swimming, showering and exercising, and limiting direct contact with perfume, lotions and household chemicals, will also help preserve its finish.

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Materials & Craftsmanship

What materials does Standing O use?

Standing O works primarily with 12kt and 14kt gold filled, along with freshwater and baroque pearls, genuine gemstones, African trade beads, ceramic and glass beads, brass, paracord, leather and select heavy gold-plated components.

Materials are chosen for their quality, durability, color, texture and character, and the exact materials used in each design are listed on its individual product page. You can browse all Standing O jewelry here.

Are Standing O pieces handmade?

Yes. Standing O is an independent jewelry brand based in Toronto, Canada. Every piece is designed and handmade by founder Sofija Obradovic and made to order in a private studio in Toronto's Ossington neighborhood.

Because pieces are made to order, most orders require approximately 3 to 5 business days of production time before shipping. If you need an order urgently, contact standingodesigns@gmail.com and Standing O will do its best to accommodate your timeline.

What pearls does Standing O use?

Standing O uses freshwater and baroque pearls, often chosen for their organic, sculptural shapes, natural variation and individuality.

Pearls have become a signature material in the Standing O collection. They appear in classic, timeless designs as well as more playful pieces, where they may be paired unexpectedly with colorful gemstones, beads and other materials.

What are African trade beads?

African trade beads are beads associated with centuries of trade across Africa and include many different styles, materials and origins. Standing O uses select trade beads for their distinctive colors, patterns, texture and character.

Because individual beads can vary in color, shape, pattern and finish, these differences add individuality and character to each piece.

Does Standing O make colorful or beaded jewelry?

Yes. Color is a major part of Standing O.

Standing O creates handmade beaded and gemstone jewelry using freshwater pearls, gemstones, African trade beads, ceramic and glass beads, often mixed with gold filled chains and findings.

The colorful pieces are designed for the days you want to add more personality to your outfit. They can also be paired with classic gold filled pieces to create layered, mixed-material looks.

What gemstones does Standing O use?

Standing O works with a variety of genuine gemstones and stones depending on the design. Current pieces may include garnet, topaz, carnelian, smoky quartz, jade, chalcedony, amethyst, citrine and lapis lazuli.

Because natural stones vary in color, markings and shape, individual pieces may not be perfectly identical. Exact materials are listed on each product page.

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Orders, Sizing & Shipping

Can I get a custom size?

Custom sizing is available for many Standing O necklaces, chains and bracelets, as well as select other pieces.

Availability depends on the design, so contact Standing O before ordering if you need a specific length or size. Some designs, including certain hoop earrings, cannot be resized.

How long does it take for my order to ship?

Every Standing O piece is handmade to order in Toronto. Production normally takes approximately 3 to 5 business days before your order is shipped.

Standing O ships throughout Canada and internationally, including to the United States, United Kingdom, Europe and Australia. Available shipping methods, rates and estimated delivery times are shown at checkout.

See full shipping information.

Will I be charged customs or duties?

International orders may be subject to customs duties, taxes or import fees depending on the destination country and the shipping method selected.

For U.S. orders, applicable import charges are handled according to the shipping terms shown at checkout.

For other international destinations, duties, taxes or import fees may be charged by the destination country and are generally the responsibility of the customer unless otherwise stated at checkout.

See current shipping and duties information.

What is Standing O's return policy?

Eligible items may be returned within 21 days of delivery for a refund, minus the applicable production fee. Contact Standing O within 3 days of delivery to begin a return.

Returned pieces must be unworn and returned in their original condition and packaging. Earrings, custom pieces, sale items and certain sized pieces are final sale.

For complete conditions, exclusions and current return fees, please review the Standing O Return Policy before ordering.

What is the price range for Standing O jewelry?

Standing O jewelry typically ranges from about $80 to $820 CAD, depending on the design, materials and construction.

Most pieces fall between approximately $100 and $250 CAD, with higher-priced statement and gold filled chain designs available.

Shop all Standing O jewelry.

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About Standing O

What is Standing O?

Standing O is an independent handmade jewelry brand based in Toronto, Canada, founded by designer Sofija Obradovic. The collection includes gold-filled jewelry, freshwater and baroque pearls, genuine gemstones and colorful mixed-material designs, ranging from classic everyday pieces to bold statement jewelry.

Standing O is built around the idea that personal style does not have to fit one aesthetic. The same woman can wear a simple gold chain one day and colorful gemstones or pearls the next.

What kind of jewelry does Standing O make?

Standing O makes handmade necklaces, bracelets and earrings using materials including 12kt and 14kt gold filled, freshwater and baroque pearls, genuine gemstones, African trade beads, ceramic and glass beads, leather, paracord and select statement components.

The collection ranges from simple everyday gold pieces to colorful, mixed-material gemstone jewelry designed to be worn, layered and combined.

What makes Standing O different?

Standing O does not believe you have to pick a lane.

The same collection can include a quiet gold chain, baroque pearls and a colorful gemstone necklace because they are designed for the same woman on different days. The common thread is quality, craftsmanship and jewelry made to be worn repeatedly rather than treated as disposable fashion.

Standing O also makes pieces to order rather than mass-producing large quantities, and prioritizes materials selected for durability and longevity. Learn more about the Standing O philosophy.

Who founded Standing O?

Standing O was founded by Toronto designer Sofija Obradovic.

Every Standing O piece is designed and handmade to order from a private studio in Toronto's Ossington neighborhood.

Why is it called Standing O?

The name Standing O comes partly from founder Sofija Obradovic's initials, S.O., and partly from a family tradition.

The women in Sofija's family have names beginning with S, a tradition her mother began because she believed the letter brought good luck. When Sofija started the brand, her mother encouraged her to keep the S.

The name also reflects the kind of jewelry Standing O was created to make: not something worn once and forgotten, but pieces you want to reach for again and again, jewelry that earns its place in your rotation.

Is Standing O a Canadian jewelry brand?

Yes. Standing O is a Canadian jewelry brand founded and handmade in Toronto, Canada.

Pieces are made to order in Toronto and shipped to customers across Canada and internationally.

Where is Standing O based?

Standing O is based in Toronto, Canada, in the Ossington neighborhood.

The studio is private and is not a walk-in retail location. Standing O is primarily available online.

Is Standing O available in stores?

Standing O is currently sold online through shopstandingo.com and the Standing O Etsy shop rather than through a permanent physical retail store.

Is Standing O jewelry sold internationally?

Yes. Standing O is made in Toronto and worn internationally, with pieces shipped to customers in Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Austria, Australia and other international destinations.

Available destinations and shipping methods are shown at checkout.

Has Standing O been featured in the press?

Yes. Standing O has been featured in ELLE Canada, ELLE Russia, The Kit, CTV's The Social, The Marilyn Denis Show, Canadian Living and Avantages, part of the Marie Claire Group in France.