How to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry: A Complete Guide

How to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry

Caring for gold plated jewelry is just as crucial as maintaining solid gold pieces. Unlike pure gold, gold plating can tarnish and lose its luster over time. Whether you’ve inherited a cherished piece, found a bargain at a flea market, or received a treasured gift, your gold plated jewelry deserves proper care to maintain its shine. Here’s how to clean and preserve your gold plated jewelry so it continues to sparkle.

How Often Should You Clean Gold Plated Jewelry?

It's wise to give your gold plated jewelry a quick wipe with a soft cloth after each wear to eliminate tarnish, sweat, lotion residue, and fingerprints. For a deeper clean, follow the steps below when you notice visible tarnishing.

Before You Begin

First, confirm whether your jewelry is genuine gold or simply gold plated. Solid gold won’t tarnish, whereas gold plated items will. Discoloration or a greenish or blue stain on your skin suggests that the piece is not solid gold. If you're unsure, consult a professional jeweler for verification.

Items You’ll Need

1. Tools

1. A soft cloth or a cleaning wipe
2. A small bowl
3. A cotton bud or a soft-bristled child’s toothbrush

2. Materials

1. Mild liquid soap
2. Warm water

Cleaning Gold Plated Jewelry Without Gemstones

To keep your gold plated jewelry looking its best, follow these steps:

1. Soak the Jewelry

1. Pour warm water into a small bowl and add a few drops of mild soap. Stir to create foam.
2. Drop the jewelry in the solution for 5 to 10 minutes.

2. Remove Dirt

1. Use a cotton wipe or a soft-bristled baby toothbrush to gently clean any dirt stuck in the gaps. Rinse the jewelry thoroughly.

3. Dry and Buff

1. Gently dry the jewelry with a soft, silk cloth. Polish the surface to restore its shine and remove any remaining tarnish.

Cleaning Gold Plated Jewelry with Gemstones

If your jewelry features gemstones, be extra cautious during cleaning:

1. Regular Wiping

1. Use a soft cloth to regularly wipe the jewelry, especially after wearing it. Be careful around the gemstones to prevent snatching.

2. Deep Clean with Caution

1. For a more thorough clean, wet a cotton wipe or soft-bristled toothbrush with a solution of water and mild soap. Gently clean the areas around the gemstones. Avoid soaking the jewelry. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your jewelry is particularly precious or you're uncertain about its material, it might be best to have it professionally cleaned. Experts can not only clean your gold plated jewelry but also fix any loose settings or replated worn pieces. It's generally advised to get your jewelry professionally cleaned every six to twelve months.

9 Tips for Keeping Gold Plated Jewelry in Top Condition

Tips for Keeping Gold Plated Jewelry in Top Condition

1. Avoid Soaking: Never soak your gold plated jewelry, especially if it has gemstones. Prolonged exposure to water can weaken any glue holding the stones in place and may cause them to become loose. Use a damp cloth instead of submerging the entire piece.
2. Use Mild Cleaning Solutions: If you prefer not to use liquid soap, opt for a reputable jewelry cleaner that is specifically designed for delicate pieces. Make sure the cleaner is gentle and safe for gold plated items to avoid damaging the plating.
3. Regular Wiping: After each wear, gently wipe your jewelry with a soft cloth to remove oils, sweat, and dirt. This practice helps prevent tarnishing and keeps your jewelry looking its best.
4. Avoid Abrasives: Steer clear of abrasive materials and cleaning agents. Things like baking soda or harsh chemicals can scratch or damage the gold plating. Stick to soft clothes and non-abrasive cleaners.
5. Store Properly: Keep your gold plated jewelry in a cool, dry place. Keep it in a jewelry box or anti-tarnish pouch to minimize its exposure to air and moisture, which can lead to tarnishing.
6. Remove Before Physical Activity: Always take off your jewelry before exercising, swimming, or engaging in exhausting activities. Sweat and chlorine can accelerate tarnishing and damage the gold plating.
7. Travel with Care: When traveling, pack your jewelry carefully in a travel organizer or soft pouches to avoid scratches and tangling. This helps protect your jewelry from potential damage during transit.
8. Keep Away from Heat: Avoid exposing your gold plated jewelry to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods. Heat can cause the metal to expand and potentially affect the integrity of the plating.
9. Inspect Regularly: Periodically check your jewelry for signs of wear or loose stones. Addressing minor issues early can prevent more significant damage and ensure your pieces remain in good condition.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your gold plated jewelry remains shiny and well-maintained for years to come.

Avoid These Cleaning Methods for Gold-Plated Jewelry

Refrain from using silver polish, toothpaste, strong chemical cleaners, or abrasive brushes on gold-plated jewelry. According to luxury jewelry designer Sheryl Lowe, while some may suggest that household items like baking soda or Coca-Cola can effectively clean gold, these substances may be too harsh or ruff, especially if the gold features delicate or valuable gemstones.

Conclusion

Maintaining the beauty of gold plated jewelry requires care and attention, but the results are well worth the effort. By following these cleaning and care guidelines, you can ensure that your pieces retain their luster and continue to shine brightly for years to come. Remember to handle your jewelry gently, use appropriate cleaning methods, and store your items properly to prevent tarnish and damage. Regular maintenance and mindful handling will help keep your gold plated treasures looking as exquisite as the day you first received them. Whether your jewelry is a cherished heirloom or a recent find, proper care will ensure it remains a sparkling part of your collection.

FAQs

1. Can Baking Soda Be Used for Cleaning?

Baking soda is too harsh for gold plated jewelry and can scratch the surface. Avoid using baking soda, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide for cleaning.

2. Can Tarnished Gold Plated Jewelry Be Restored?

You can often remove tarnish with a jewelry polishing cloth, though it might require some patience. These cloths are slightly harsh and contain cleaning agents that can help restore shine.

3. How Long Does Gold Plated Jewelry Last?

Gold plated jewelry can last several years with proper care. However, it is less durable than solid gold due to its thinner gold layer. Regular maintenance will help extend its life.