GOLD-PLATED CARE
Gold-plating is a very thin layer of gold deposited on to a base metal such as copper, brass, or nickel. These jewelry pieces are less durable and generally less valuable than gold and gold-filled jewelry pieces. The downside of gold-plating is that the plating that covers your jewelry will inevitably wear away, where gold will withstand the test of time. Consumers can expect it to wear off in a short time period, perhaps a few months of everyday wear.
STORING GOLD-PLATED JEWELRY
Properly storing your jewelry will help maximize how long the gold-plated layer lasts. Here are some storage tips:
• Store individual pieces separately.
• Store each piece in an airtight bag.
• Place in an area with low humidity.
• Keep clasps/closures unhooked.
WEARING GOLD-PLATED JEWELRY
Wearing your gold-plated jewelry regularly without caring for it will accelerate the depletion of the plating. You should remove your gold-plated jewelry before doing any of the following:
• Using household cleaning supplies
• Cooking with mustard, onions, eggs, or any other foods that contain sulfur
• Sunbathing
• Swimming
• Spraying Hairspray
• Putting on Lotion and Makeup
CARING FOR GOLD-PLATED JEWELRY
Keep gold-plated jewelry away from hard surfaces. Bumps and scratches will cause the gold layer to wear away faster. Store your gold-plated jewelry in a velvet lined jewelry box, or wrap it in a soft material that will prevent scratches. Lightly wipe your gold-plated jewelry with a damp cotton cloth. This will help to eliminate any dirt or dust from accumulating on the surface and wearing away the gold layer. Use a non-abrasive jewelry polishing cloth and gently rub the gold-plated jewelry to restore shine. You can also take the gold-plated jewelry to a local jeweler where they can replace the gold layer. This may be necessary if the gold-plating has already started to wear off. Check with your local jeweler to see what they charge for this service.
