How Long Does Gold Plated Jewelry Last? Find Out Now

Wearing gold-plated jewelry is an excellent way to add a touch of sophistication and luxury to just about any outfit without costing an arm and a leg. However, one of the questions that you may have about gold-played jewelry is about how durable it is and how long it will last.

If you’re wondering about the longevity of your gold-plated jewelry, we’ve got the answers that you are looking for! Let’s talk about gold-plated jewelry and how long it will last.

What is Gold-Plated Jewelry?

Gold-plated jewelry is an affordable alternative to more expensive solid gold jewelry pieces that allow people to wear beautiful gold jewelry without paying the premium price that comes with buying traditional, solid gold jewelry.

Related: Rose Gold VS Yellow Gold: What’s the Difference?

Gold-plated jewelry is created when a thin layer of gold is electroplated onto a base metal, like copper or another alloy. Electroplating is the process where the base metal is immersed into an electrolyte solution with an electric current running through it. This causes the gold ions in the solution to bond to the base metal, permanently attaching a thin layer of gold to the surface of the metal.

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Many people love gold-plated jewelry due to how durable it is. The gold that is bonded onto the surface of the base metal acts as a protective shield and makes it significantly more resistant to scratches, dents, and other kinds of damage. The gold plating also helps prevent tarnish from sticking to the jewelry, which helps the gold-plated jewelry maintain its original color and a bright shine. 

Another reason why people choose to wear gold-plated jewelry is that it is hypoallergenic, meaning that it is not likely to cause an allergic reaction. The gold in gold-plated jewelry acts as a barrier between your skin and the metal in the jewelry, reducing the chances that you will develop an allergic reaction. This makes gold-plated jewelry a great choice for those with sensitive skin since it is much less irritating than other types of metal can be.

How Long Can I Expect My Gold-Plated Jewelry to Last?

Depending on how well you take care of it and the quality of the gold plating, gold-plated jewelry can last for a considerable amount of time. While gold plating will not last forever and can eventually wear off and require replating, taking care of your gold-plated jewelry will keep it shining for years to come.

Related: The Difference Between White Gold and Platinum Jewelry

Gold-plated jewelry will last a while, but it simply is not meant to last forever. High-quality gold-plated jewelry pieces usually last anywhere between one to three years with the proper care and maintenance. Gold plating that is thicker will usually last longer than jewelry with thinner gold plating.

How Do I Take Care of Gold-Plated Jewelry?

If you want to keep your gold-plated jewelry looking good for as long as possible, there are a few things that you can do.

Make sure to clean your gold-plated jewelry regularly. Regular cleaning using a jewelry polishing cloth or another clean, soft cloth will remove dirt and oil buildup that can cause your jewelry to tarnish and lead to eventual damage. 

Try to avoid contact with harsh and abrasive chemicals that can damage your gold-plated jewelry. Take off your gold-plated jewelry before you do anything that involves chemicals, such as cleaning with bleach or alcohol. These chemicals can damage the gold plating and even seep into damage the base metal underneath.

Before you jump into that pool or hot tub, take the time to remove your gold-plated jewelry and store it in a safe place. Not only will the chlorine erode away at the gold plating and metal underneath, but the water will cause your jewelry to tarnish much more quickly. 

Make sure that you remove all of your gold-plated jewelry before you engage in any strenuous activities. Gold-plated jewelry tends to be delicate, so avoid wearing them when you are expecting to perform strenuous work such as vigorously exercising, gardening, or cleaning. 

Related: The Ultimate Guide On How To Clean Gold Jewelry

When you notice that your gold-plated jewelry is looking excessively tarnished or dull, consider taking it to a jeweler to give it a professional deep cleaning so it can be returned to its original shine. A jeweler can deep clean the gold-plated jewelry without damaging it, so if the jewelry is considerably dirty, this can be the better option.

Storing your gold-plated jewelry properly will increase its longevity. Make sure to put your gold-plated jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or bag to reduce the chances of it being scratched and tarnished. Keep your gold-plated jewelry in a clean and dry place that is away from direct sunlight.

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Final Thoughts

Gold-plated jewelry can last for years with the proper amount of care and maintenance. The longevity of your gold-plated jewelry is dependent on the quality of the gold plating and how well it is cared for. Take the time to care for your gold-plated jewelry properly and it will be a long-lasting, stylish, and beautiful accessory for years to come.