How to Care for Gold Plated Silver Jewellery: 10 Simple Tips

Gold plated silver jewellery gives you the rich look of gold with the lasting value of genuine 925 sterling silver. The gold layer on top is thin, so how you wear, clean and store your jewellery makes a big difference to how long it keeps its shine. The good news: a few simple habits are all it takes.

1. Put your jewellery on last

Apply perfume, deodorant, hair spray, lotion and makeup first, let them dry, and then wear your jewellery. Chemicals in these products are one of the main reasons plating fades.

2. Take it off first

When you get home, remove your jewellery before changing clothes or removing makeup. This protects it from snagging and from cleansers.

3. Keep it away from water

Remove your jewellery before bathing, swimming, washing dishes or exercising. Water, sweat, chlorine and salt water can dull the gold plating over time.

4. Wipe it after every use

Gently wipe each piece with a soft, dry cotton or microfibre cloth after wearing it. This removes sweat and oils from the skin before they settle on the surface.

5. Clean gently, never scrub

If your jewellery needs more than a wipe, dip a soft cloth in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, wipe gently, then dry it completely. Avoid toothpaste, baking soda, silver dips and polishing cloths meant for pure silver, as they can wear away the gold layer.

6. Store each piece separately

Keep your jewellery in its box or a soft pouch, with each piece stored separately so that stones and plated surfaces do not rub against each other.

7. Store in a dry, airtight place

Silver reacts with air and moisture. Storing your jewellery in an airtight pouch or box, away from bathrooms and damp cupboards, helps prevent tarnish and keeps the plating bright.

8. Handle stone-set pieces with extra care

For pieces with kundan, polki-style, ruby-toned or emerald-toned stones, avoid pulling or pressing on the stones, and do not soak them in water.

9. Rotate your pieces

If you have a favourite everyday piece, give it a break from time to time. Wearing the same piece daily in heat and sweat wears the plating faster.

10. Save statement pieces for occasions

Heavy bridal and festive sets such as long necklace sets and choker sets last longest when worn for special occasions and stored carefully in between.

Why gold plated silver is worth caring for

Unlike brass or alloy imitation jewellery, gold plated 925 silver jewellery has real value because the base is pure sterling silver. With the care tips above, your pieces can stay beautiful for many occasions to come.

Have a question about caring for a specific piece? Reach out to us on WhatsApp and our team will be happy to help.