What Is Gold Plated Jewelry? Quick overview

It looks like gold, it feels like gold, but is it really gold? Well, it's not really gold but it’s the next best thing. I mean if it checks all the marks that are expected out of a piece of gold, without pinching your pocket, it’s a steal. Gold plated jewellery uses a base metal, say a brass, copper or stainless steel and deposits a thin layer of gold on it. Like all good things, it comes with a cost; A requirement for maintenance. 

Why Does Gold Plated Jewelry Tarnish?

The infamous question of “Does gold plated jewellery tarnish?” Or will “Gold dipped jewellery tarnish?” Has a rather simple answer; Yes. Gold plated/dipped jewellery is not entirely gold after all but a thin layer of it. It all depends on the base metal that forms the majority of the jewellery piece and so it is prone to tarnish eventually. There are three things you must keep away from your gold plated jewellery to increase its shelf life at all costs, they are - Moisture,  perfumes and Lotions. Any kind of moisture can cause the base metal to oxidise and fade out. The drier the jewellery is kept, the better! 

Does Tarnishing Affect All Gold Plated Jewelry? Impact of plating thickness & base metal

If it’s ‘Gold plated’, it will most definitely tarnish. All gold plated jewellery is designed in the same way. The heart of any gold-plated jewellery is a base metal and not real gold and so it is prone to tarnish. ‘Gold plated thickness’ is a huge factor that can contribute to the durability of the jewel in question, it essentially refers to the amount of gold used to plate the base metal and is measured in microns. A thicker coating of gold, guarantees a longer shelf life. It does not matter if it’s a ring or necklace, if the specific piece is exposed to moisture more, it will tarnish faster. 

How to Prevent Tarnishing: Care and storage tips

Now that we have understood that the life of your jewellery piece is directly proportional to how well you avoid any contact from moisture in any form, let’s focus on how to increase their shelf life! Firstly, think of all possible scenarios that might include your jewellery touching any kind of moisture; This includes avoiding wearing it in sweaty situations or places, Storing your beloved pieces in a cloth or some cotton in a box, removing your jewellery before you step into the shower or begin any kind of exercise, and so on. 

How Long Does Gold Plated Jewelry Last Before Tarnishing?

This actually depends entirely on YOU. What I mean to say by this is that it all boils down to how well you can minimise the damage of moisture to your jewellery. If you can be mindful about storing and using your jewellery correctly, it can easily last for anywhere between 1-3 years. 

Signs Your Gold Plated Jewellery Is Tarnishing

Let’s get to the most important part; What are the first signs you must keep a look out for the first signs of tarnish. The most important and obvious sign would be the jewellery bleeding out a greenish black colour on your skin. This residue is a clear indicator of the base metal reacting with moisture! Next, check for spots of discolouration on the jewellery itself, this will often be accompanied with the jewellery appearing dull and devoid of its sparkle. On rare occasions, it can also cause some irritation on your skin, in which case it is best to avoid wearing it further. Regular inspections of your jewellery can push its life drastically!

How to Clean Tarnished Gold Plated Jewelry Safely

While prevention is better than cure in this case, in the situation of you having to clean your jewellery, this is the best way possible to do so. Take a bowl and create a bath in it with some warm water and a mild dish soap, preferably a dish soap with no fragrance or unnecessary chemicals. Use a cotton pad or a soft cloth to gently wipe the dirt off the jewellery, be sure to rinse it under clean water after. Once this is done, focus all your energy into drying the clean piece before storing it in a dry box.  

Can You Wear Gold Plated Jewelry Everyday? Expectations

Of course you can! But if not cared for properly, get ready to watch its shelf life diminish. What I would suggest is saving these beauties for a special occasion as damage due to moisture is inevitable. Focus on minimising its use for maximising its beauty!

Recap & highlight product quality and care

Owning a piece of gold-plated journey should be one of the easiest decisions you will ever make. If you are a staunch believer of sustainable solutions then, run, don’t walk to get yourself one. Gold plated jewellery is a great way to save up on your finances without any compromises on its look and feel. The shelf life of Gold plated or gold dipped jewellery depends entirely on the wearer and how he/she tends to it. Aim towards securing a dry environment for them to thrive in and try saving them up for some special occasions!