Understanding tarnishing, lifespan, and how to take care of your gold-plated jewelry.

What is gold-plated jewelry?

Gold-plated jewelry refers to a piece made by applying a thin layer of real gold over a base metal such as copper, brass, or stainless steel. This is typically achieved through electroplating or physical vapor deposition (PVD), which securely bonds the gold to the metal surface. This process gives the jewelry the look and shine of solid gold, but at a much more affordable price.

Will gold-plated jewelry tarnish?

Gold-plated jewelry will naturally lose its shine over time, but the rate at which this happens depends greatly on the base metal beneath the gold layer and the thickness of the gold. Once the plating wears thin or gets scratched, the underlying metal is exposed to air, moisture, and chemicals. Highly reactive metals like copper or brass tarnish faster because they oxidize quickly. On the other hand, low-reactivity metals such as stainless steel resist corrosion, allowing gold-plated stainless steel jewelry to maintain its luster for much longer. This means that the lifespan of gold-plated pieces depends not only on the thickness of the gold layer but also on the quality and type of metal underneath.

How long does gold-plated jewelry last？

If properly maintained, gold-plated copper jewelry can last from six months to two years, depending on the thickness of the gold layer and how often it's worn. Thicker coatings tend to last longer, while ultra-thin layers may fade more quickly.

What causes gold-plated jewelry to tarnish?

1. Daily wear: When jewelry is frequently rubbed against skin, clothing, or other surfaces, the thin gold layer can gradually wear away, revealing the base metal underneath.
2. Sweat & Moisture: Because the salts and acids in moisture and sweat can accelerate the corrosion and oxidation of the thin gold layer and the underlying metal.
3. Chemicals in perfume, lotion: These product contains alcohol, acid, and oil, which will react with gold and the underlying metal, causing luster or discoloration.
4. Oxidation: Oxidation in the air can also cause gold-plated jewelry to lose its luster。
5. Inappropriate cleaning methods: Using overly strong cleaning agents, alcohol, or rough fabrics to clean jewelry may directly remove the already thin gold plating layer.

How to prevent gold-plated jewelry from tarnishing?

1. Avoid water and sweat: Remove jewelry before taking a shower, swimming, and exercising.
2. Makeup before wearing jewelry: Avoid chemical-laden lotions or perfume.
3. Wipe jewelry properly: using soft fabric wipes after wear.
4. Store jewelry properly: put pieces in a dry box and keep.

With the right care, gold-plated jewelry can stay beautiful and bright for years. Protect your pieces—and let them shine longer.