Gold-plated jewellery offers the perfect blend of luxury and affordability, making it a popular choice for many. However, a common question arises: Can you wear gold-plated jewellery in the shower? The answer depends on several factors, including the quality of the plating, the base metal used, and how frequently the jewellery is exposed to water.
In this article, we will explore whether gold-plated jewellery can withstand water exposure, what happens when it gets wet, and how Carigari's gold-plated pieces offer superior durability compared to standard gold-plated jewellery.
Understanding Gold-Plated Jewellery
Gold-plated jewellery consists of a base metal coated with a thin layer of gold through a process called electroplating. The thickness of this gold layer is measured in microns, and it plays a crucial role in determining the jewellery’s resistance to wear and tear.
Most brands use only 0.25 microns of gold plating, which is very thin and wears off quickly when exposed to water, sweat, and daily friction. Carigari, however, uses 1-micron thick gold plating on a sterling silver base, making our jewellery significantly more resistant to water and everyday wear compared to industry standards.
What Happens if Gold-Plated Jewellery Gets Wet?
While gold itself is resistant to tarnishing, the base metal underneath the plating can react with moisture and cause the jewellery to deteriorate over time. Here’s what happens when gold-plated jewellery gets wet:
- Gold layer erosion: Water, especially when combined with soap, shampoo, or chlorine, can cause the thin gold plating to fade faster.
- Base metal oxidation: If the underlying metal is brass or copper, water exposure can lead to tarnishing and discoloration.
- Loss of shine: Frequent exposure to water may dull the appearance of gold-plated jewellery over time.
Since Carigari uses sterling silver as the base metal, our gold-plated pieces do not rust or tarnish as quickly as brass-based jewellery. This makes them more resistant to moisture, including sweat and humidity. However, to maximize longevity, it’s still best to minimize water exposure when possible.
Can You Wear Gold-Plated Jewellery in the Shower?
Occasional Showering: Yes, but with Precautions
Gold-plated jewellery can handle occasional water exposure, but frequent showering will shorten its lifespan. Carigari’s 1-micron thick plating offers better resistance to water compared to standard 0.25-micron plating, but care is still needed. If you must shower with your jewellery on, follow these precautions:
- Avoid harsh soaps, shampoos, and body washes.
- Gently pat dry with a soft cloth after showering.
- Store jewellery properly to prevent excessive moisture exposure.
Regular Showering: Not Recommended
Even with high-quality plating, regular showering will gradually wear down the gold layer. Over time, exposure to water, steam, and chemicals will dull the jewellery’s finish. To maintain its beauty, it’s best to remove gold-plated jewellery before showering.
Can You Swim with Gold-Plated Jewellery?
Swimming is even more damaging than showering due to the presence of chlorine in pools and salt in seawater. These elements accelerate the breakdown of the gold layer, leading to tarnishing and discoloration. It is strongly advised to remove gold-plated jewellery before swimming.
However, thanks to Carigari’s use of sterling silver and 1-micron plating, our jewellery is more resistant to water damage than standard gold-plated pieces. If exposed to water, simply rinse with fresh water and dry immediately.
Can You Wear Gold-Plated Jewellery in the Rain?
Wearing gold-plated jewellery in the rain occasionally is unlikely to cause significant damage, especially if it’s high-quality plating like Carigari’s. However, prolonged exposure to rainwater, especially if it contains pollutants, can contribute to gradual wear. To prevent this:
- Dry the jewellery thoroughly if it gets wet.
- Store in a dry place when not in use.
How to Make Gold-Plated Jewellery Last Longer
To extend the life of your gold-plated jewellery, follow these care tips:
- Avoid water exposure whenever possible. Even though Carigari’s plating is thicker than most, regular contact with water can still affect its longevity.
- Store properly. Keep jewellery in a dry, soft-lined box or pouch to prevent moisture buildup.
- Clean gently. Use a soft cloth to wipe off sweat, dirt, or oils after each wear.
For a more detailed guide on maintaining your jewellery, read our blog on How to Clean Gold-Plated Jewellery at Home.
Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Tarnish?
Tarnishing depends on the base metal and thickness of the plating. Standard gold-plated jewellery with a thin 0.25-micron layer on brass or copper tarnishes quickly. In contrast, Carigari’s 1-micron thick gold plating on stainless steel makes our jewellery much more resistant to tarnishing.
Want to learn more? Read our blog Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Tarnish?.
Final Verdict: Should You Wear Gold-Plated Jewellery in the Shower?
While occasional exposure to water won’t ruin high-quality gold-plated jewellery, regular showering can cause it to fade over time. Carigari’s gold-plated jewellery is much more durable than standard options, thanks to its sterling silver base and 1-micron thick plating, but to keep it looking its best, it’s advisable to remove it before showering, swimming, or exposing it to harsh chemicals.
By following proper care guidelines, your gold-plated jewellery can maintain its shine and last for years to come!
Shop Carigari's Demi-Fine Gold Plated Jewelry Today!
Stay connected for more expert tips by subscribing to the Carigari newsletter and following us on Instagram.