Why Proper Care Matters for Gold-Plated Jewellery
Gold-plated jewellery offers the luxurious look of solid gold at a fraction of the price β but it does require a little extra love to keep it looking its best. The good news? With a few simple habits, your ANETT pieces can stay bright, beautiful, and tarnish-free.
What Is Gold Plating?
Gold-plated jewellery is made by bonding a thin layer of gold over a base metal (often stainless steel or brass). The thickness of the gold layer determines how long the plating lasts. At ANETT, we use high-quality plating processes to ensure our pieces are durable and long-lasting.
The Golden Rules of Gold-Plated Care
1. Put It On Last
Always apply your perfume, moisturiser, sunscreen, and hairspray before putting on your jewellery. Chemicals in these products are the number one cause of tarnishing and can strip the gold layer over time.
2. Keep It Dry
Remove your jewellery before swimming, showering, or exercising. Chlorine, saltwater, and sweat are particularly harsh on gold plating. Even washing your hands while wearing rings can accelerate wear.
3. Store It Properly
Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box to prevent scratching. Avoid leaving pieces in humid environments like bathrooms. A cool, dry place is ideal.
4. Clean It Gently β With Your ANETT Microfibre Cloth
Every ANETT order comes with a complimentary microfibre jewellery cloth β and this is your best tool for keeping your pieces looking their best. After each wear, give your jewellery a gentle wipe with the cloth to remove oils, fingerprints, and residue. For a deeper clean, use the cloth with a slightly damp corner β never submerge your jewellery in water or use harsh chemical cleaners.
5. Avoid Abrasives
Never use toothpaste, baking soda, or rough cloths on gold-plated jewellery. These can scratch the surface and remove the gold layer. Your ANETT microfibre cloth is perfectly designed for safe, effective cleaning.
How Long Does Gold Plating Last?
With proper care, gold-plated jewellery can maintain its shine for many months. The key is consistency β pieces that are regularly exposed to moisture, chemicals, or friction will show wear sooner, while pieces that are worn mindfully and stored properly will look beautiful for longer. The better you care for your jewellery, the better it will look.
Signs Your Jewellery Needs Extra Attention
If you notice your piece starting to look dull or slightly discoloured, it's usually a sign that oils and residue have built up. A gentle buff with your microfibre cloth is often all it takes to restore its shine. If the base metal is starting to show through, the plating may be wearing thin β this is normal over time with frequent wear.
Travel Tips
Most ANETT orders come with a branded zip lock bag β and it's the perfect travel companion for your jewellery. Use it to store your pieces individually when you're on the go, keeping them protected from scratches, tangles, and humidity. Keep your jewellery in your carry-on rather than checked luggage to avoid temperature extremes, and don't forget to pack your microfibre cloth too!
For a full breakdown of our care recommendations, visit our Jewellery Care Instructions page. And if you have any questions about a specific piece, don't hesitate to reach out β we're always happy to help.