I use all Gold Filled items on my site unless otherwise noted. The difference between gold filled and plated is Gold-plate is created using an electro-chemical processes. Gold-filled is created by heat-and-pressure-bonding a thin layer of gold to a brass core. In any case, gold-filled is a much more durable product than gold-plate. Gold-filled jewelry is economical, and enjoys the rich look of gold at a fraction of the cost.