How To Maintain the Beauty of Your Gold-plated Jewelry
Gold-plated jewelry is a popular choice for those who love the look of gold without the high price tag. However, because it only has a thin layer of gold, it requires special care to maintain its beauty and shine. With the right care, your gold-plated pieces can retain their luster for years to come. Below are some practical tips on how to keep your gold-plated jewelry looking as good as new.
How To Maintain the Beauty of Your Gold-plated Jewelry
1. Avoid Contact with Chemicals
Gold plating is delicate and can wear away if exposed to harsh chemicals. To maintain your jewelry’s shine, avoid wearing it when using household cleaning products, perfumes, lotions, and hair sprays. These substances can cause tarnishing and discoloration over time.
- Tip: Always apply lotions, perfumes, and makeup before putting on your jewelry to reduce direct contact with chemicals.
2. Keep Jewelry Dry
Water can be harmful to gold-plated jewelry, as it can lead to corrosion or fading. Avoid wearing your pieces when swimming, bathing, or engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating.
- Tip: Remove your jewelry before washing your hands or using water, and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth if it gets wet.
3. Store Jewelry Properly
Proper storage plays a key role in preventing damage to gold-plated jewelry. When pieces rub against each other, they can lose their finish. Keep your gold-plated items in separate pouches, boxes, or compartments to avoid scratching and tarnishing.
- Tip: Store each piece in a soft cloth bag or lined jewelry box to protect it from moisture and dust. Silica gel packets can help reduce moisture in the storage area.
4. Clean Gently
Gold-plated jewelry can accumulate dirt and oils from your skin, which dull its shine. However, cleaning it requires a gentle approach to avoid stripping the gold layer. Use a soft cloth or microfiber cloth to gently wipe your pieces after each wear to remove oils and dirt.
- Tip: For a deeper clean, use lukewarm water and mild soap. Soak the jewelry for a few minutes, then gently rub it with a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh cleaners, as they can damage the gold coating
5. Limit Exposure to Sunlight
Overexposure to sunlight can cause your gold-plated jewelry to fade over time. Try to store your pieces in a cool, dark place when you're not wearing them to preserve their appearance.
- Tip: Avoid leaving your jewelry in direct sunlight, especially when not in use, as UV rays can affect the color and shine of the gold plating.
6. Polish with Care
While regular polishing can enhance the brilliance of gold-plated jewelry, it's important to use the right tools. Avoid polishing with harsh materials that could wear down the gold layer.
- Tip: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently buff your jewelry. Avoid using chemical-based polishes, as they can damage the plating
7. Remove Jewelry During Physical Activities
Wearing gold-plated jewelry during activities that involve heavy use of your hands or exposure to sweat can accelerate the wear and tear of the gold layer. Physical activities like exercising, gardening, or cooking can lead to scratching or fading.
- Tip: Remove your gold-plated pieces before engaging in any activity that could potentially damage them
8. Replate When Necessary
Even with the best care, the gold layer on plated jewelry will eventually wear away. Fortunately, you can have your favorite pieces replated to restore their original shine.
- Tip: If you notice significant fading or tarnishing, consult a jeweler to see if they offer replating services. This can extend the life of your gold-plated jewelry and keep it looking new.
Buy Gold-plated jewelry
Gold-plated jewelry offers an affordable way to enjoy the beauty of gold, but it requires mindful care to maintain its brilliance. By following these simple steps—avoiding harsh chemicals, keeping it dry, cleaning gently, and storing it properly—you can ensure your gold-plated pieces stay vibrant and elegant for years. Taking these small precautions can help preserve both the look and longevity of your jewelry, allowing you to enjoy it for a long time.
Buy: Gaia's Silver Wings
