Κηλίδα (pronounced vehr-may; it’s French!) is a legally regulated term that refers to a certain kind of quality jewelry. To be legally called “κηλίδα” internationally, the jewelry piece must meet ALL of these conditions:
1. Have sterling silver as its base material. Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% καθαρό ασήμι και 7.5% other materials, and is a standard material used in high quality jewelry (versus, Π.χ., brass or copper).
2. Be plated in gold that is at least 10k (10 καρατάς). That means the gold is at least 41.7% περιεχόμενο χρυσού.
3. Have gold plating that is at least 2.5 πάχος μικρών. A micron is 1/1000th of a millimeter.
Put another way, vermeil pieces are made with precious materials με βαριά επιμετάλλωση to ensure long-lasting wear.