How to Keep Gold-Plated Jewelry from Tarnishing
Gold-plated jewelry shines due to its bright allure, but tarnishing over time can dull it. If this is what's happening to your precious gold-plated jewelry, worry not! Here, we discuss the top easy ways to protect your priceless jewels so they are as shiny as new.
Understanding the Causes of Tarnishing in Gold-Plated Jewelry
While gold-plated jewelry is known for its affordability and beauty, it can lose its shine over time and tarnish. This is a natural process influenced by various factors. Understanding these causes will help you preserve the allure of your gold-plated jewelry.
However, this base metal might come to the surface with time, discoloring both the metal and gold. To restore its original brightness after this lengthy process, diligent polishing and care are required. Here, we share valuable tips to help you maintain the sparkle and luxurious allure of your gold-plated jewelry even after years.
Invest in a Gentle Cloth
If you use it often, you must clean your gold-plated jewelry at least once a year and more frequently, every three to six months. To keep them shining, use a cotton chamois or soft, non-abrasive, clean cloth when storing.
Minimize Contact with Water
Gold plating thickness, measured in microns, directly affects tarnishing. Higher microns mean less tarnishing. To protect your jewelry, remove gold-plated items before showering or swimming. Substances like chlorine in tap water can harm precious metals, leading to dullness or erosion.
Exercise Caution with Perfume
Be cautious with perfume around gold-plated jewelry. Avoid spraying perfume directly on gold items, as some chemicals can cause oxidation and lead your jewelry to tarnish. This chemical response can ultimately blacken your gold-plated items, although it is reversible with the appropriate measures
Strategic Jewelry Storage
Storing necklaces and earrings well is as essential as cleaning gold-plated jewelry. Use pouches, cases, or jewelry boxes to protect them from tarnishing and fading. For ultimate jewelry care, consider storing them in a dark, calm, and dry environment, free from humidity and excessive heat, which can accelerate tarnishing.
The Longevity of Gold-Plated Jewelry
With good care, high-quality gold-plated jewelry can stay attractive for up to five years. Please protect it from salt, water, sweat, humidity, and chemicals. If it fades, you can restore it through tarnish-removal sprays or replacing it for a fresh look.