Gold filled jewelry is made by wrapping layer of solid gold sheets around a core metal, such as brass. The process of adhering solid gold sheets makes for jewelry that doesn't tarnish, peel, chip or discolor. If your gold filled jewelry has changed color, it's usually caused by dirt build up and can be cleaned with a damp polishing cloth. Gold plated jewelry is made from a process called electroplating. In the end, a nearly undetectable layer of gold or silver is applied which leads to jewelry that will easily scratch, tarnish, and fade.