Caring for your Gold Plated Jewellery

Gold plated jewellery is one of those lovely little luxuries that lets you enjoy the warmth and glow of gold without needing to go full-tilt solid gold. At HerbertandWilks, our gold plated pieces are sterling silver coated with a thin layer of 18ct gold — bright, beautiful, and designed to be worn with joy.

Like all good things though, they need a touch of looking after. With the right care, your gold plated jewellery will stay gorgeous for longer.

What makes gold plated jewellery different?

Solid gold jewellery is made entirely of gold. With gold plating, the surface is coated in real gold — which means friction, chemicals, and regular wear can gradually thin that layer over time.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this — it’s just how plating behaves. Knowing how to care for it is the key to longevity.

Make your jewellery the last on, first off

Pop your jewellery on after:

• Moisturiser
• Sunscreen
• Perfume
• Hair products
• Makeup

And take it off first when you’re getting changed again. This simple habit keeps chemicals and particles away from your plating and protects the surface finish.

 

Keep it dry (water and plating aren’t friends)

If you’re:

• Swimming
• Showering
• Running around in summer sweat
• Relaxing in a spa
• Doing dishes

… your gold plated pieces are best removed and kept in a safe spot.

Moisture and salt are sneaky at fading shine.

Clean soft, clean often

Think gentle. No polishing cloths. No harsh cleaners.

How to clean your gold plated jewellery:

• Use warm water with a drop of mild dish soap
• Wipe carefully with a super-soft cloth (microfibre is ideal)
• Dry completely before storing

A quick wipe after wearing helps keep oils and makeup away from the surface.

 Store with a little TLC

When you’re not wearing it, keep your jewellery:

• In a soft pouch or fabric-lined box
• On its own (so other metals don’t rub against it)

A tiny bit of separation goes a long way.

Wearing vs not wearing

Plated jewellery deserves a little rest. Treat these pieces like your favourite going-out shoes — not every day, but always feel-good.

Everyday friction from keyboards, gym gear, coats and bedding is what shortens plating lifespan the fastest — especially rings and bracelets.

Replating — a refresh when you need it

Over time, gold plating will soften and wear with life’s adventures. If your piece starts to look a little silver-peeking-through, I can help.

✨ HerbertandWilks offers replating
Send me a message and I’ll give you a quote based on the piece.

It’s a great way to bring back that original golden glow and extend the life of something you love.

 

FAQ — Gold Plated Jewellery Care

How long does gold plated jewellery last?

With careful wear and good habits, plated pieces can stay beautiful for years. Treating them as “sometimes” pieces gives them the best chance.

Will gold plated jewellery tarnish?

Plating itself doesn’t tarnish, but the base metal underneath can show through as the gold wears. A quick clean and careful storage helps delay that.

Can I shower in gold plated jewellery?

Short answer — nope. Showers, pools, oceans and saunas all shorten plating lifespan.

Can jewellery be re-plated?

Absolutely. Yes, I can organise replating for HerbertandWilks pieces. If you’d like a quote, just ask.

Is gold plating covered under warranty?

Gold plated pieces are covered for 3 months from the dispatch date. After that, normal wear is expected over time — which is also what replating is for!

 

Written by: Sally Herbert
Designer & Maker — HerbertandWilks Jewellery
Handmade in Mt Eden, Auckland, New Zealand

If you have any questions please Get In Touch