Why Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Tarnish?

Gold-plated jewellery is a beautiful and affordable way to enjoy the elegance of gold without the solid gold price tag. But if you’ve noticed your favourite pieces fading, darkening, or losing their shine - you’re not alone. This guide explains why gold-plated jewellery tarnishes and, more importantly, how to keep it looking beautiful for longer.

What is Gold-plated jewellery?

Gold-plating involves applying a very thin layer of gold over a base metal, such as silver, brass or stainless steel. Over time, exposure to air, moisture and the natural oils from your skin can cause the gold layer to fade, revealing the metal underneath. This process is completely natural and doesn’t mean your jewellery is low quality — it just comes with the territory of plated pieces.

That said, not all gold-plated jewellery is created equal. The base metal underneath plays a big role. We use sterling silver as the foundation for our gold-plated pieces, which not only makes the jewellery more valuable, but it also offers a smoother, more stable surface for plating — resulting in a more refined, beautiful finish and a gold tone that looks richer and more true to real gold compared to plating over other metals.

How to Keep Gold-Plated Jewellery Looking Beautiful?

With just a few simple habits, you can help your gold-plated pieces stay radiant for longer. Here’s how:

• Avoid direct contact with water, perfume and lotions.

• Remove jewellery before showering, exercising or sleeping.

• Store each piece in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratching.

• Gently polish with a soft cloth to remove residue and restore shine.

Gold-plated jewellery is a beautiful way to bring elegance into your everyday. And with just a little care, these pieces can continue to shine for years. They're made to be worn, enjoyed, and cherished — not hidden away. A few simple habits are all it takes to keep them looking their best, season after season.