Gold-plated jewellery is a stylish and affordable way to enjoy the look of solid gold without the hefty price tag. However, one common concern among jewellery lovers is whether gold-plated pieces tarnish over time. In this article, we'll answer this question and provide expert-backed tips on how to keep your gold-plated jewellery looking pristine for years.
What Is Gold-Plated Jewellery?
Gold-plated jewellery consists of a base metal, such as copper, brass, or sterling silver, coated with a thin layer of gold through a process called electroplating. The thickness of the gold layer plays a crucial role in determining the durability of the piece.
At Carigari, we only use sterling silver as the base for our demi-fine gold-plated jewellery. Unlike many brands that use just 0.25 microns of gold plating, we apply a 1-micron thick layer—making our jewellery significantly more resistant to wear and tear.
Discover our demi-fine jewellery now!
Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Tarnish?
Yes, gold-plated jewellery can tarnish over time. This happens when the thin gold layer starts to wear off, exposing the base metal underneath. Factors that contribute to tarnishing include:
- Exposure to moisture (e.g., sweat, water, or humidity)
- Chemicals in perfumes, lotions, and cleaning agents
- Natural oils from your skin
- Friction from daily wear
However, with proper care and high-quality plating (like Carigari’s 1-micron thick gold layer), you can significantly slow down the tarnishing process.
How Long Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Last?
The lifespan of gold-plated jewellery depends on its thickness, the base metal, and how well it is maintained. Generally:
- Low-quality plating (0.25 microns) may fade within a few months.
- Higher-quality plating (1 micron or more), like Carigari’s jewellery, can last up to five years or longer with proper care.
- Re-plating can restore the gold layer and extend the lifespan indefinitely.
Can You Shower with Gold-Plated Jewellery?
It’s not recommended to shower with gold-plated jewellery. Water, soap, and chemicals in shampoos can wear down the gold layer more quickly. To keep your jewellery looking its best, remove it before showering, swimming, or exercising.
Is Gold-Plated Jewellery Worth Buying?
Absolutely! Gold-plated jewellery offers the luxurious look of solid gold at a fraction of the price. It’s an excellent choice if:
- You love switching up your jewellery styles frequently.
- You want an affordable alternative to solid gold.
- You’re looking for high-quality demi-fine jewellery with durability, like Carigari’s sterling silver-based pieces with 1-micron gold plating.
Can You Wear Gold-Plated Jewellery Every Day?
Yes, you can wear gold-plated jewellery daily, but keep in mind that regular exposure to sweat, water, and friction will cause it to wear down faster. To make it last longer:
- Store your jewellery in a dry place when not in use.
- Avoid direct contact with perfumes and lotions.
- Clean it gently using a soft cloth and mild soap.
For more expert tips on maintaining your jewellery, check out our detailed jewellery care guide.
Stay connected for more expert tips by subscribing to the Carigari newsletter and following us on Instagram.