How to Care for Gold-Plated Jewellery | Keep It Looking New

Gold-plated jewellery gives you the look of solid gold without the high price tag – but it does need a little extra care to stay looking its best. Unlike solid gold, gold plating is a fine layer of gold applied to another metal (usually sterling silver or brass), which means it can wear over time if not looked after properly.

With just a few simple habits, you can keep your favourite gold-plated pieces bright, shiny, and beautiful for longer. Here's how to make them last.

Wear It Gently

Gold plating is delicate, so it’s best treated like a finishing touch – the last thing you put on when getting ready, and the first thing you take off at the end of the day. Avoid wearing gold-plated jewellery while:

• Swimming – chlorine and saltwater can speed up fading
• Showering or bathing – water and products can dull the finish
• Exercising – sweat and friction can wear down the layer over time
• Applying skincare or perfume – always let products dry before putting on jewellery

Clean It Carefully

Regular gentle cleaning helps keep gold-plated jewellery looking fresh, but harsh cloths or chemical cleaners can strip away the finish. Instead:

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe down your jewellery after wearing
• If needed, dampen the cloth slightly with warm water and pat dry
• Avoid polishing with strong cleaning solutions or abrasive materials

It’s all about being gentle – the goal is to remove dirt and oils without rubbing away the gold.

Store It Right

How you store your jewellery matters. Keep gold-plated pieces in a soft pouch or cloth-lined box, away from other metals that could scratch the surface. If you’re storing multiple pieces together, separate them to prevent tangling and friction.

Avoid storing your gold-plated jewellery in humid areas like bathrooms. A cool, dry place is best to help slow down oxidation and fading.

Rotate Your Favourites

If you wear the same gold-plated piece every day, it’s more likely to wear down quickly. Rotating your jewellery gives each piece a little break – and helps keep everything looking newer, longer. It also gives you the chance to mix up your style and rediscover forgotten favourites.

Know When It's Time to Refresh

Over time, all gold plating will eventually fade. When it does, many pieces can be re-plated by a local jeweller to restore their shine. If a piece has sentimental value or is a staple in your rotation, this is often worth doing.

If you want a more in-depth look at metal care and the differences between jewellery types, check out our full Sterling Silver Care Guide – many of the tips apply to gold-plated pieces too.

Long-Lasting Shine Starts with Good Habits

Gold-plated jewellery is about effortless beauty – it offers shine, warmth, and style without the commitment of solid gold. With a little care and attention, your favourite pieces can stay part of your wardrobe for years to come.

Whether it's a gold-plated necklace you wear to the beach or a delicate ring you save for special days, looking after your jewellery means it'll always be ready when you reach for it.