Can You Wear Gold-Plated Jewelry Every Day?

Jewelry is something we all cherish, and when it comes to gold jewelry, its allure is undeniable. However, the cost of pure gold pieces can be quite high. That's where gold-plated jewelry comes in: it's affordable, visually stunning, and available in a wide variety of designs. But one question many people have is whether you can wear gold-plated jewelry every day without it tarnishing or fading. In this blog post, we’ll clear up any doubts and help you decide if gold-plated jewelry is the right choice for your everyday wear.

What is Gold-Plated Jewelry?

Before diving into whether it’s safe to wear every day, let’s first understand what gold-plated jewelry is. Essentially, gold-plated jewelry is made by placing a thin layer of gold over a base metal such as copper, brass, or stainless steel. The gold layer can vary in karat (ranging from 10k to 24k), and the thickness of the gold plating can differ depending on the manufacturing process.

The thicker the gold layer, the more durable the piece will be. So, when purchasing gold-plated jewelry, make sure to check for the gold plating thickness, as this will play a significant role in how well the piece holds up over time.

Can You Wear Gold-Plated Jewelry Every Day?

The short answer is: Yes! You can wear gold-plated jewelry every day, but with a few precautions. The longevity of gold-plated jewelry depends on several factors, including how often you wear it, the type of jewelry, and the thickness of the gold layer.

To make sure your jewelry lasts longer, you need to take proper care. Here’s how:

How to Take Care of Your Gold-Plated Jewelry

Avoid Chemicals
Everyday household items like perfumes, hairsprays, and lotions can cause harm to your gold-plated jewelry. These chemicals can break down the gold layer, causing it to tarnish. To avoid this, apply your perfumes or lotions first, and then wear your jewelry afterward.
Keep Away from Water
Prolonged exposure to water—whether it's from washing your hands, sweating, or swimming—can damage your gold-plated jewelry. Remove your jewelry before you shower, swim, exercise, or bathe. Water can strip the gold layer and cause it to wear off. Also, avoid wearing your jewelry when you're in contact with chlorine, bleach, or saltwater.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
To ensure your gold-plated jewelry stays sparkling, you should clean it regularly. Gently clean the pieces with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a solution of mild soap and warm water. After rinsing, dry your jewelry with a soft cloth to avoid water spots. For regular upkeep, you can polish your jewelry with a jewelry polishing cloth to maintain its shine. If the piece accumulates tough stains, it’s best to visit a professional jeweler for a more thorough cleaning.

Tips for Preventing Tarnishing

Store Properly: When you're not wearing your gold-plated jewelry, store it in a cool, dry place, away from humidity. Plastic pouches or jewelry boxes with anti-tarnish properties can help protect your pieces.
Avoid Scratching: Be mindful of where you place your jewelry to avoid scratches and scuffs. Keep it separate from other jewelry to prevent friction and wear.

Can You Wear Gold-Plated Jewelry in the Shower?

We’ve mentioned this briefly, but it’s important to emphasize: it’s best not to wear gold-plated jewelry in the shower. Even though it might look good on your wrist, water exposure—especially hot water—can cause damage to the gold layer. If you're someone who prefers wearing jewelry all the time, consider switching to solid 925 sterling silver or PVD-coated gold-plated jewelry for pieces that are more water-resistant.

Conclusion:

You can wear gold-plated jewelry every day with the right care and maintenance. By avoiding chemicals, keeping it away from water, and cleaning it regularly, you can extend the life of your gold-plated pieces. Just make sure to keep your pieces away from harsh environments and take care when storing them.

Shemisli's Gold-plated jewelry is a beautiful, affordable option for daily wear—just ensure that you follow these tips to help your pieces stay radiant and last longer. When you take care of your jewelry, it will continue to be a valued part of your collection for years to come.