How to Care for Your Jewelry
Plated jewelry (gold-plated, silver-plated, or vermeil) features a thin layer of precious metal over a base metal. While beautiful and versatile, the outer plating can wear down over time if exposed to moisture, chemicals, and friction.
Follow these simple rules to keep your pieces shining for years to come:
- The "Last On, First Off" Rule: Always put your jewelry on after applying lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, and makeup, and remove it before swimming, showering, or working out.
- Keep It Dry: Moisture is the number one enemy of plated jewelry. Never wear your pieces in the pool, ocean, hot tub, or shower. Sweat and natural skin oils can also break down the plating over time.
- Store Individually: Store your pieces in a cool, dry place—ideally in an airtight jewelry box, a soft pouch, or an anti-tarnish bag. Keeping them separated prevents scratching against other items.
- Skip the Harsh Cleaners: Never use chemical jewelry dips, abrasive polishing cloths, or toothpaste, as these will strip away the delicate plated layer.
How to Clean Your Pieces
Gently wipe your jewelry after wearing it with a soft, dry microfiber or lint-free cloth to remove any lingering oils or dust. If needed, you can very briefly wipe it with a damp cloth, then dry it completely with a soft towel before storing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I shower or swim with plated jewelry?
No. Remove plated jewelry before showering, swimming, or using a hot tub. Water, chlorine, and salt water wear down the plating, and sweat and skin oils can break it down over time.
How do I clean plated jewelry?
Wipe it after each wear with a soft, dry microfiber or lint-free cloth. If needed, wipe it very briefly with a damp cloth, then dry it completely with a soft towel before storing. Never use chemical jewelry dips, abrasive polishing cloths, or toothpaste.
Can I wear perfume or lotion with plated jewelry?
Yes, but apply lotions, perfumes, hairspray, and makeup first, then put your jewelry on last. Direct contact with these products can wear away the plated layer.
How should I store plated jewelry?
Store each piece separately in a cool, dry place, ideally an airtight jewelry box, a soft pouch, or an anti-tarnish bag. Keeping pieces apart prevents scratches.
How long does plated jewelry last?
It depends on how often you wear it and how it is cared for. Keeping it dry, putting it on last, and cleaning it gently will help the plating last much longer.