How to Care for Gold Plated Jewelry

Gold plated jewelry is one of the best value propositions in fashion accessories: the look of real gold at a fraction of the price. With the right care habits, high-quality gold plated jewelry can look stunning for years.

How Gold Plating Works (And Why It Fades)

Gold plating is a thin layer of real 18K gold bonded to a base metal — in Amorium's case, genuine 925 sterling silver. The gold layer wears away through friction, chemical exposure, and oxidation. The rate at which this happens is almost entirely within your control.

The Non-Negotiables: What to Always Avoid

Never wear gold plated jewelry in water. Showering, swimming, doing dishes — all accelerate fading dramatically. This is the single highest-impact change you can make.

Remove before applying products. Perfume, hairspray, lotions, and sunscreen all contain chemicals that interact with the plating. Apply all products first, let them dry, then put jewelry on.

Keep it away from sweat. Salt in sweat is corrosive to the gold layer. Remove jewelry before working out or spending extended time in heat.

Don't store it in the bathroom. Humidity weakens gold plating. Store in an airtight container or zip-lock bag.

How to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry Safely

Use mild dish soap in warm water, apply with a soft cloth or cotton ball, and gently wipe. Do not scrub. Rinse briefly and immediately pat dry. Clean only when it visibly needs it — not on a fixed schedule.

Never use: toothpaste, baking soda, ultrasonic cleaners, silver polishing cloths, or anything acidic like vinegar.

The "Last On, First Off" Rule

Jewelry goes on last (after makeup, lotion, perfume) and comes off first (before washing hands, exercising, cooking, going to bed). One week to build the habit — then it's automatic.

When Gold Plating Fades

A local jeweler can re-plate jewelry for a modest cost, returning the piece to like-new condition.

About Amorium's Gold Plating

All Amorium pieces are finished in 18K gold plating over genuine 925 sterling silver — significantly higher quality than brass-based alternatives. Browse necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings — all built to last when cared for properly.