Heading 7113 covers articles where the precious-metal cladding is a defining feature of the piece — mechanically bonded gold-filled or rolled-gold items — while heading 7117 covers imitation jewelry that merely simulates the appearance of precious metal, including electroplated base-metal pieces. The bonding method, layer thickness, and whether the article is marketed as fine or costume jewelry all inform the distinction; a binding ruling is advisable for borderline pieces.

Importers should be prepared to provide a commercial invoice with per-piece or per-lot values, metal content and karat declarations, country-of-origin certificates, and — for consignments above the formal-entry threshold — a customs bond. Some countries require hallmark certificates; US Customs may also request assay documentation to verify metal purity claims on high-value lots.