Can Gold Plated Jewelry Tarnish?
When it comes to jewelry, many people often wonder about the differences between various types, especially when it comes to gold-plated and gold-filled pieces. Understanding these differences, along with proper care and maintenance, can help you make informed choices about your jewelry.
What is Gold Plated Jewelry?
Gold plated, is an application of a very thin layering (usually brass or copper) with some gold on top. Normally, electroplating is used in the process to coat a thin layer of gold on its surface by passing an electric current. Where gold plated jewelry can give an expensive look for just a tiny bit of the cost, with regular use that thin layer or layers could ultimately rub off over time.
Is Gold Plated Jewelry Cleanable?
Indeed, you can clean gold plated jewelry but it is very important to do so with care not ruin the delicate layer of gold. When you clean your furniture regularly, it ensures that everything retains its appearance. After wearing, gently wipe down your gold plated jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any dirt and oils. For more serious cleaning, mix some dish soap with warm water to make a mild soapy solution. A soft cloth should be soaked in the solution, rung out and then used to lightly wipe your jewelry. Stay away from harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners or abrasive scrubbing materials that will remove gold surface but expose the base metal.
Gold Plated vs. Gold Filled
Although they have the same main properties, both gold filled and gold plated jewelry are made with some quantity of actual gold, but with noticeable differences in durability. It is made using a thicker layer of gold which is mechanically bonded to the base metal whereas Gold plated uses less physical amount of wealth on plating. To be considered gold filled, the gold layer must account for at least 5 % of total weight. The thicker layer makes gold filled jewelry much less likely to tarnish or wear than gold plated, which only has a microscopically thin veneer of the precious metal. So while gold filled can last many years with reasonable care, your gold plated piece should start showing wear after only a few months of regular use.
Storing Our Care of Gold Plated Jewelry
Here are some care tips for your gold plated jewelry products to continue looking great as the last day you wore them.
1.Do not use water: Please never let your gold plated jewelry wet, it may lose the color and tarnish. Try to avoid showering, swimming and going to gym with you jewellery on as they could be damage.
2.Remove Before Procedure: Remove your gold plated jewelry before you apply lotions, perfumes and cleaning agents etc. to it as they can damage its layer of pure Gold.
3.Store Right: When not in use, store your gold plated jewelry below a cool and dry location. A soft bag or a lined jewelry box is the best shelter to safe it from scratches and keep far away of air, light.
4.Cleaning: Clean your gold plated jewelry regularly to remove dirt and oils. All this routine can do wonders and keep its shine intact along with beauty.
5.Avoid Scratchy Fabrics: Scrubbing at the surface of your jewelry is a sure way to get it scratched up, which will pappercorn and wear away quickly.
How Long Does Gold Plated Jewelry Last
Basically, the durability of gold plated jewelry is highly influenced by its wear frequency and maintenance. If you keep it well maintained, gold coated fashion jewelry can last as long a few months to several years before the layer of gold decreases. But, several things like moisture and chemicals as well as everyday use also play a role in shortening its span. On the other hand, its thicker gold layer can cause superior longevity in comparison to using sterling silver or low-carat metals making it reasonable as a long time use option for those that value quality hangables.
Bottom line: It is a cheaper method to wear gold, but it needs appropriate maintenance for longevity. And knowing what to look for between gold plated vs. gold filled jewelry can help you make informed accessory decisions. Just keep in mind the care tips mentioned above, which could help making your gold plated jewelry looking beautiful and last longer then you thought it would while enjoying what unique joy each type can bring to your collection.
