Gold-plated jewellery offers the appearance of solid gold at a more accessible cost. However, gold plating can wear off over time if not properly cared for. All gold-plated jewellery at Pupari is actually gold vermeil, which uses sterling silver as the base metal and requires a minimum gold thickness of 2.5 microns.
At Pupari, the plating is even thicker at 3.5 microns, making it five times thicker than standard gold plating to ensure long-lasting quality. However, even with this level of plating, there are steps that can be taken to further extend the life of gold-plated jewellery.
Understanding Gold Plating
Gold plating involves depositing a layer of gold onto the surface of another metal. This process can vary in thickness, which directly impacts the durability and longevity of the plating. Standard gold plating is typically around 0.5 to 1 micron thick, so a 3.5-micron plating is significantly more robust. Nevertheless, knowing how to care for gold-plated jewellery is essential to maintain its shine and prevent premature wear.
Tips to Extend the Life of Gold-Plated Jewellery
- Avoid Exposure to Chemicals Gold plating can be damaged by exposure to chemicals found in everyday products. Perfumes, lotions, and household cleaning agents can cause the gold layer to tarnish or wear off. To protect the jewellery, always remove it before applying beauty products or handling chemicals.
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Remove Jewellery During Physical Activities Sweat and friction from physical activities can accelerate the wear of gold plating. It's advisable to remove gold-plated jewellery before exercising, swimming, or engaging in any strenuous activities.
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Store Properly in a Cool, Dry Place Proper storage can prevent scratches and minimise exposure to moisture. Keep gold-plated jewellery in a soft cloth pouch or a separate compartment in a jewellery box. Avoid storing multiple pieces together to prevent them from rubbing against each other. Ensure storage is in a cool, dry place to further protect from moisture.
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Clean Gently Regular cleaning can help maintain the appearance of gold-plated jewellery. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or oils. For a deeper clean, use warm water and a mild soap, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or brushes that can scratch the surface.
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Limit Exposure to Water Water, especially chlorinated or saltwater, can cause gold plating to wear off more quickly. Remove gold-plated jewellery before showering, bathing, or swimming to extend its lifespan.
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Avoid Contact with Hard Surfaces Impact with hard surfaces can scratch or chip the gold plating. Be mindful of where and how the jewellery is worn to avoid accidental damage.
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Apply Perfumes and Moisturisers Well Before Adding Your Jewellery Perfumes and moisturisers can damage gold-plated jewellery. Apply these products well before putting on jewellery, allowing them to sink in fully.
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Remove Jewellery Before Bed Sleeping with gold-plated jewellery can cause friction and potential damage, as well as tangling. Remove jewellery before bed to protect it.
By following these tips, the beauty and shine of gold-plated jewellery can be preserved for a longer period. Proper care and handling are key to enjoying the elegant look of gold plating without the worry of it fading prematurely.