How to Care for Gold-plated Jewellery
Preserving the Glow: A Guide to Caring for Gold Plating
Gold-plated jewellery has become a fundamental part of the modern jewellery box. Whether it’s a pair of subtle studs for every day or a woven statement piece for an evening out, gold adds a warm, luminous glow to any silhouette.
At Emma Calvert, each piece is crafted with intention - often featuring intricate textures inspired by heritage and weave. While these pieces are designed to be lived in, they are also delicate. With the right care and a little light touch, your jewellery can maintain its radiant finish for years to come.
Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Tarnish?
Gold-plating will naturally change over time. Much like solid silver (which is the metal I use to cast my jewellery), plated pieces can react when exposed to the elements. This process, known as oxidation, happens when the surface meets air and moisture, occasionally resulting in a slightly darkened or dulled appearance.
Beyond the atmosphere, our daily rituals can also play a part. The natural oils from our skin, alongside perfumes, lotions, and sunscreens, can build up within the textured grooves of a design, temporarily masking its original brilliance.
Keeping it’s shine
If you’ve noticed your favourite pieces have lost a bit of their shine, there are some simple things you can do. Most gold-plated jewellery simply requires a gentle "refresh" to be restored to its former glory.
The Final Touch: Always apply your perfumes and hairsprays before putting on your jewellery. This prevents chemicals from settling directly onto the gold.
Keep it Dry: Remove your jewellery before showering, swimming, or exercising. Moisture and chlorine are the most common causes of premature tarnishing.
Soft Cleaning: Use a dry, lint-free cloth to gently buff the surface after wearing. Avoid using abrasive chemical cleaners or jewellery cloths which have cleaners embedded within them, as these can wear down the gold layer.
Store: When not in use, keep your pieces in a pouch and/or jewellery box. This protects the intricate textures from scratching and minimises exposure to the air.
By treating your jewellery with a little care, you ensure that the stories woven into each piece continue to shine brightly.
Renewing Your Jewellery
From everyday studs to statement necklaces, any gold-plated piece can be refreshed with a little care.
If your jewellery has lost its gold, I offer a professional re-plating service. I can apply a fresh, heavy layer of gold to your pieces, restoring them to their original brilliance so they look brand new again. Please get in touch for more information: studio@emmacalvert