If you love jewelry, it’s essential to know how to take care of gold-plated jewelry. Proper care prevents tarnish, scratches, and fading, keeping your pieces looking shiny and new. In this guide, we’ll share simple tips to help your gold-plated jewelry last for years.
What is Gold-Plated Jewelry?
Gold-plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold over a base metal, which makes it more affordable and versatile than solid gold.
However, it also means it’s sensitive to the environment around it—especially when it comes to storage, chemicals, and everyday handling.
How to Prevent Gold-Plated Jewelry from Tarnishing
Gold-plated jewelry is delicate and prone to fading over time if not cared for properly. By following simple cleaning, storage, and handling tips, you can prevent your gold-plated jewelry from tarnishing.
1. Keep Jewelry Away from Moisture
Moisture is sneaky—it doesn’t just come from showers or pools. The humidity in the air, steam from your bathroom, or even storing your jewelry near an open window can speed up tarnishing. Waterproof jewelry may handle water exposure, but prolonged exposure to damp air can still dull its shine.
- Store jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Avoid leaving pieces in bathrooms or other humid spaces
- Use silica packets or anti-tarnish strips in your jewelry box for extra protection
2. Apply Products First, Jewelry Second
Beauty products like lotions, perfumes, and hairsprays contain chemicals that can wear down the plating over time.
- Always apply skincare and perfume before putting on your jewelry
- Wait until products are fully absorbed before accessorizing
- Wipe pieces with a soft cloth at the end of the day to remove residue
Think of your jewelry as the final step of your outfit—not part of your beauty routine.
3. Store Gold-Plated Jewelry the Right Way
Improper storage is one of the biggest reasons gold-plated jewelry loses its glow.
- Store each piece separately in soft pouches or lined boxes to prevent scratching
- Avoid tossing pieces together in one drawer
- Keep jewelry away from direct sunlight or heat sources
- Add anti-tarnish strips to your storage to combat humidity
4. Handle Necklaces and Chains with Care
Few things are as frustrating as untangling a delicate chain. Constant knotting and tugging can weaken clasps and damage the plating.
- Hang necklaces on hooks or organizers
- Use jewelry rolls or mini zipper bags when traveling
- Always fasten clasps before putting them away
5. Smart Habits to Avoid Tarnish and Scratches
Even if your jewelry is waterproof and sweat-proof, small everyday actions can make or break how long it stays shiny. Think of this as the golden rulebook for prevention.
- Take off jewelry when doing household chores like cleaning or cooking (chemicals and rough surfaces can scratch plating)
- Avoid contact with harsh fabrics or rough accessories that may rub against your jewelry
- Give your jewelry a quick, gentle wipe with a soft cloth after each wear. This tiny habit helps protect your pieces and keeps them shining beautifully for years. If your jewelry needs deeper cleaning, follow our easy DIY guide on how to clean gold-plated jewelry at home.
Gold-plated jewelry can stick around for ages with a little extra care. Store it carefully, and handle it with care, and it’ll stay shiny, stylish, and ready to wear whenever you want to rock it.
FAQs
Does gold-plated jewelry tarnish easily?
Yes, gold-plated jewelry might dull a bit over time, but with a little care, you can keep it sparkling for years.
How long does gold-plated jewelry last?
With careful handling, gold-plated jewelry can last from one to five years even with daily wear. Rotating your pieces, avoiding harsh chemicals, and storing them properly will extend their lifespan.
Is gold-plated jewelry waterproof?
It depends on the brand. Mystelle’s gold-plated jewelry is waterproof and built to last, but cheaper pieces can lose their shine quickly if they get wet.
What’s the best way to store a gold-plated necklace?
The safest way is to hang it on a jewelry stand or store it in a soft pouch, away from other pieces. Always clasp the necklace before storage to prevent tangling.
Can I wear gold-plated jewelry while exercising?
Even if sweat-proof, it’s better to remove jewelry during intense workouts. Friction from equipment or rough movements can cause scratches or wear on the plating.
Minola Golden Ring