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Article: How to Make Your Gold Plated Jewellery Last: Maya’s Guide

How to Make Your Gold Plated Jewellery Last: Maya’s Guide

A simple, thoughtful care guide inspired by the routine Maya demonstrated in the video.

"Gold plated jewellery has a soft, easy glow. With a little intention, it wears gracefully, becoming part of your everyday rhythm." - Maya Magal

1. Store It Properly

Good storage is the foundation of long-lasting plated jewellery.

  • Place each piece in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box to prevent scratches.
  • Keep jewellery away from humidity and bathrooms.
  • Wrap items individually when travelling to avoid friction.

A calm, protected space helps preserve the gold layer.

2. Keep It Dry

Water and moisture are the main causes of plating breakdown.

  • Remove pieces before washing your hands.
  • Take jewellery off before showering, swimming or exercising.
  • Avoid wearing plated pieces during humid activities or workouts.

Dry metal lasts longer - it’s one of the simplest habits with the biggest payoff.

3. Avoid Perfume, Creams & Sprays

Cosmetics can dull or soften plated gold. The easiest routine is:

Fragrance first → let it settle → jewellery last.

Allow perfume, lotion or hair products to dry fully before putting on your pieces.

4. Clean Gently

Gold plating prefers a soft, minimal touch.

  • Wipe jewellery with a soft, dry cloth after each wear.
  • Avoid silver or gold polishing cloths - they are too abrasive.
  • Skip chemical dips, harsh cleaners or ultrasonic machines.

A gentle wipe is enough to maintain clarity and glow.

5. Minimise Friction

Friction is the quiet force that wears down plating over time.

  • R emove rings before lifting weights, cycling or carrying bags.
  • Take bracelets off when typing or resting wrists on hard surfaces.
  • Ensure layered necklaces don’t tangle or rub excessively.

Small adjustments help protect the finish.

6. Let Your Jewellery Rest

Gold plated pieces benefit from pauses between wears.

  • Rotate your pieces.
  • Let jewellery rest overnight.
  • Avoid sleeping in plated earrings or rings.

These moments of rest help preserve the integrity of the surface.

7. Refresh When Needed

Plating naturally softens over time, sometimes revealing gentle silver tones beneath. If you prefer a brighter finish, our Jewellery Cleaning and Care Guarantee means you can re-plate your pieces to restore an even golden glow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few habits that shorten the life of gold plated jewellery:

  • W earing plated pieces in the shower or sea
  • Sleeping in jewellery
  • Storing items loose in a bathroom
  • Using silver polishing cloths
  • Applying sanitiser while wearing rings
  • Exercising in layered chains

Mindful wear leads to long-lasting pieces.

FAQs: Gold Plated Jewellery Care

How long does gold plated jewellery last?

With dry storage, gentle cleaning and reduced friction, plated jewellery can last for years, developing a soft natural patina.

Can I shower in gold plated jewellery?

No - water, heat and soap will break down the gold layer faster.

Can I use a polishing cloth?

Avoid polishing cloths; they’re abrasive. Use a soft, dry cloth instead.

Is gold vermeil more durable?

Yes - it has a thicker layer of gold over sterling silver, but still benefits from the same care routine.

Can my jewellery be re-plated?

Absolutely. Re-plating is available through our Jewellery Care & Repair Service, restoring brightness when needed.

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