Gold-plated jewelry requires a gentle touch to keep its shine and prevent damage to the plating. After each wear, use a soft, damp cotton ball or a microfiber cloth to wipe away any oils, dirt, or smudges or mix a few drops of mild dish soap (not antibacterial) in a bowl of warm water.
Understanding Gold Plated Jewelry
Before diving deep into learning how to clean your gold plated jewellery at home , we must know every aspect of our gold plated jewelry.
Gold-plated jewelry consists of a thin layer of gold applied to the surface of a base metal, such as brass, copper, or silver. The gold layer is usually deposited through an electroplating process.
The core of the jewelry Is made from a less expensive metal, providing strength and durability while keeping costs lower than solid gold items.
There are several benefits that gold plated jewellery offers that makes it a top choice for jewellery hoarders:
Gold-plated jewelry is much less expensive than solid gold jewelry.
It offers the look of gold at a fraction of the price.
Available in a wide range of styles and designs due to the flexibility in using base metals
Why Cleaning Gold Plated Jewelry is Important
Regular cleaning helps keep the jewelry looking shiny and new by removing dirt, oils, and other residues that can dull its appearance. 18k gold plated bracelets or any 18k gold plated jewellery can accumulate bacteria, sweat, and other substances from daily wear. Cleaning ensures it remains hygienic and safe to wear.
How to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry at Home
Cleaning your 18k gold plated earrings or any jewellery should seem like something other than a quantum physics to you. It is extremely simple and has multiple alternatives to prevent your gold plated jewellery from getting damaged.
Here's a quick guide on how to clean your tarnished gold plated jewellery :
Method 1: Soap and Water
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Use a soft cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the jewelry gently. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth. By using the soap water method, you can help maintain the appearance of your gold-plated jewelry.
Method 2: Polishing Cloth
Using a polishing cloth specifically designed for 18K gold plated rings or 18k gold plated necklaces is a safe and effective way to clean and maintain its appearance. A soft, non-abrasive polishing cloth that is labeled safe for gold plated jewellery is usually infused with a gentle cleaning solution that helps remove dirt and tarnish without scratching the surface.
Method 3: Soft Cloth
Wipe the jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove fingerprints, oils, and dust.
FAQ's
How often should I clean my gold plated jewelry?
To maintain the appearance and longevity of gold plated jewelry, it’s recommended to clean it every two to three weeks if worn on a daily basis. Use a soft cloth or a mild soapy solution with lukewarm water. Avoid direct sunlight and harsh chemicals at all costs.
What should I avoid when cleaning gold plated jewelry?
It is best to avoid excessive cleaning or dipping your 18K gold plated jewellery completely in water. Over-cleaning can wear down the gold plating, so stick to a gentle routine without vigorous scrubbing or gouging.
Does vinegar damage gold plating?
Yes, vinegar may ravage gold plated jewelry. Gold plating is a thin layer of gold applied over a base metal, and the acidic nature of vinegar can cause the gold layer to wear away more quickly, exposing the base metal underneath. It’s best to clean gold plated jewelry with mild soap and water.
Does baking soda damage gold plating?
Baking soda does damage gold-plated jewelry. While baking soda is a mild substance, it can wear away the thin layer of gold plating over time, especially if used repeatedly.
Does lemon juice damage gold plating?
Lemon juice can potentially damage gold-plated jewelry.Lemon juice is highly acidic, and acids can erode the thin layer of gold plating over time, exposing