How to Clean and Care for Your Gold Plated Jewelry

Gold plated jewelry is a beautiful and affordable option for those looking to add some shine and sophistication to their accessories collection. However, like all jewelry, gold plated pieces require proper care and maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition and retain their luster over time. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to clean and care for your gold plated jewelry, so you can keep your favorite pieces looking as good as new.

Gold plated jewelry is a beautiful and affordable option for those looking to add some shine and sophistication to their accessories collection. However, like all jewelry, gold plated pieces require proper care and maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition and retain their luster over time. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to clean and care for your gold plated jewelry, so you can keep your favorite pieces looking as good as new.

Whether you have a pair of gold plated earrings, a delicate necklace, or a statement bracelet, it’s important to understand that gold plating is a thin layer of gold that is applied over another metal, such as brass or silver. Over time, this layer of gold can wear off or tarnish, which can affect the appearance of the jewelry. However, with the right care and attention, you can help to preserve the life and shine of your gold plated pieces.

Know Your Jewelry

Before you start cleaning your gold plated jewelry, it’s important to know what type of metal it’s made of. Most gold plated jewelry is made of a base metal, such as brass or copper, which is then coated with a thin layer of gold. Knowing the base metal is important because some metals may react differently to cleaning solutions and chemicals.

Avoid Contact with Harsh Chemicals

One of the easiest ways to protect your gold plated jewelry is to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals. Household cleaning agents, perfumes, hairspray, and makeup can all damage the thin layer of gold on your jewelry. To avoid damage, apply perfume and hairspray before putting on your jewelry, and remove your jewelry before cleaning or doing household chores.

Clean Your Jewelry Regularly

Cleaning your gold plated jewelry regularly is essential to keep it looking its best. To clean your jewelry, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or dishwashing detergent. Gently scrub the jewelry, making sure to get into all the crevices and corners. Rinse the jewelry under running water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.

Store Your Jewelry Properly

Proper storage is key to keeping your gold plated jewelry in good condition. Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. You can also store your jewelry in a cloth or velvet pouch to prevent it from getting scratched or tarnished.

Use a Jewelry Cleaning Solution

If your gold plated jewelry needs a deeper clean, you can use a jewelry cleaning solution. However, make sure to choose a solution that is safe for gold plated jewelry. You can find these solutions at your local jewelry store or online. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid using too much solution or leaving your jewelry in the solution for too long.

Steps to clean gold plated jewelry

• Use a soft cloth: Before starting the cleaning process, make sure you have a soft cloth, like a microfiber cloth or a jewelry cleaning cloth, which won’t scratch the jewelry.
• Gently wipe the jewelry: Use the soft cloth to gently wipe the jewelry, removing any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the surface. Be gentle and avoid using any harsh chemicals or rough materials that could damage the gold plating.
• Use warm water: After wiping away any surface dirt, dip the jewelry into a bowl of warm water. Let it soak for a few minutes to loosen any stubborn dirt or grime.
• Add soap: If the dirt is still not coming off, you can add a small amount of mild soap to the warm water. Make sure the soap is gentle and non-abrasive.
• Scrub gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a soft cloth to gently scrub the jewelry, paying special attention to any crevices or intricate details. Be careful not to scrub too hard or you could scratch the gold plating.
• Rinse with water: Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse the jewelry with clean water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry thoroughly: Use a clean, dry cloth to gently pat the jewelry dry. Make sure it’s completely dry before storing it away.

Conclusion

Taking care of your gold plated jewelry is easy and straightforward. By following these simple tips, you can keep your jewelry looking shiny and new for years to come. Remember to avoid harsh chemicals, clean your jewelry regularly, store it properly, and use a jewelry cleaning solution if necessary. With these guidelines, you can enjoy your beautiful gold plated jewelry for a long time.