Considerations Before You Get Started
First, determine if your jewelry is real or fake.
Gold plated jewelry only has a thin coating of gold on the surface with a base metal beneath it.
You could also look for hallmarks like “18k” or “18KGP.”
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The former usually indicates solid gold, and the latter means the piece is 18K gold plated.
If you’re still not sure, take it to your local jewelry store for assistance.
Proceed with the cleaning steps below for gold plated jewelry.
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Here’s what you’re gonna wanna do.
Wipe the pieces with a soft cloth.
Use a soft cloth to wipe the pieces regularly or after every wear.
Kelsey Hansen, Prop Stylist: Natalie Ghazali
Take care when wiping so as not to snag the cloth on any gemstones.
This step will help remove tarnish before it takes over.
We recommend using a soft cloth and not a polishing cloth, which tends to be more abrasive.
Soak the jewelry.
Remove any dirt.
Then rinse the piece thoroughly.
Dry thoroughly.
Using a soft, lint-free cloth, dry the jewelry and buff the surface so it shines.
This step will dry the piece and remove any built-up tarnish.
Although seemingly soft, polishing cloths are slightly abrasive because they are infused with a cleaning agent.
First, confirm the discoloration you’re seeing is tarnish and not the base metal beneath the gold plating.
Start gently polishing the piece using the designated cloth, and be firm but gentle when removing residue.
Tarnish comes off fairly easily using a polishing cloth.
If you see this color, stop polishing it immediately because the plating is compromised.
If not, continue polishing until the piece shines again.
it’s possible for you to also order anti-tarnish bags that prevent your jewelry from oxidizing and discoloring.
Remember, gold plated jewelry only has a thin coating, and it can wear down quickly.
The same applies for cleaning gold plated jewelry with hot water and vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.
Depending on the amount of care and wear, gold plated jewelry can last for several years.
Taking the steps above and using gentle cleaning and polishing methods will help prolong its life.
It’s best to take damaged gold plated jewelry to a professional.
