Gold-Filled has 100x more gold alloy than Gold plated and becasue this layer of gold is much thicker and it means that 14K Gold-Filled jewlry lasts longer and doesn't tarnish easily. All fine metals will tarnish with time. You can wear 14K Gold-Filled without worrying about it chipping or peeling off when exposed to water. However, you'll want to avoid chlorine or salt water. If you do surf in it rinse it well with some soapy water.