How to Care for Gold-Plated Jewelry: Keep It Shining

Gold-plated jewelry offers the luxurious look of solid gold at a fraction of the price, but only if you care for it properly. At AURÉA, our 18K gold-plated pieces are designed with durability in mind, featuring waterproof and non-tarnish finishes. Still, a few simple care habits will keep your jewelry looking pristine for years to come.

Understanding Gold-Plated Jewelry

Gold plating involves bonding a thin layer of gold (in our case, 18K) to a base metal like stainless steel. This creates beautiful, affordable jewelry that mimics the appearance of solid gold. The key to longevity? Protecting that delicate gold layer from wear and chemical exposure.

Daily Care Tips

1. Put Your Jewelry On Last

Apply perfume, lotion, and makeup before putting on your gold-plated pieces. These products contain chemicals that can dull the finish over time. Let everything absorb into your skin first, then add your jewelry as the final touch.

2. Remove Before Water Activities

While AURÉA jewelry features waterproof construction, we recommend removing pieces before swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater. Chlorine and salt can accelerate wear on the gold plating. Showering and handwashing are generally fine for everyday wear.

3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Remove jewelry before cleaning with household products, using hand sanitizer excessively, or applying harsh skincare treatments. These chemicals can break down the gold layer faster than normal wear.

Cleaning Your Gold-Plated Jewelry

The Gentle Method (Weekly)

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and gently wipe your jewelry. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Never scrub or use abrasive materials.

Quick Daily Wipe

After each wear, use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove oils, dirt, and residue. This simple habit prevents buildup and keeps your pieces gleaming.

Proper Storage

Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratching. Keep jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Avoid storing in bathrooms where moisture levels fluctuate.

For layered necklaces, hang them individually or use a jewelry organizer with compartments to prevent tangling and friction damage.

What to Avoid

• Ultrasonic cleaners (too harsh for plated jewelry)
• Jewelry cleaning solutions with ammonia
• Rough fabrics or paper towels for cleaning
• Storing multiple pieces together without protection
• Wearing during intense workouts or physical activities

When to Expect Normal Wear

Even with perfect care, gold plating will naturally wear over time, especially on high-contact areas like bracelets and rings. This is normal and depends on factors like your skin's pH, how often you wear the piece, and environmental exposure.

Quality pieces like AURÉA's 18K gold-plated jewelry are designed to maintain their beauty for years with proper care. Our non-tarnish finish and hypoallergenic construction mean you can enjoy your pieces daily without worry.

The Bottom Line

Caring for gold-plated jewelry is simple: treat it gently, keep it clean, and store it properly. These small habits make a significant difference in how long your pieces retain their luxurious shine.

Ready to add to your collection? Explore our full range of waterproof, non-tarnish jewelry designed for modern, everyday elegance.