How to Clean Gold-Plated Jewelry Storing Gold-Plated Jewelry Summary
Gold plated jewelry is cherished for its elegant luster and affordable price range. In contrast to solid gold pieces, cleaning gold plated jewelry requires some extra care and attention. The gold layer is usually quite thin, and improper cleaning causes it to flake or peel, leaving the base metal exposed and causing the jewelry to lose its lovely sheen. To ensure your pieces maintain their beauty, it’s essential to know how to clean gold plated jewelry properly.
Here at HonHo Jewelry, we offer high-quality gold plated products and strive to extend the life of such beautiful pieces. Cleaning it to make sure its shiny and maintaining it help get the most bang for your buck!
Gold Plated Jewelry 101
Before learning how to clean gold plated jewelry, we first need to discuss a few basics:
Understanding how to clean gold plated jewelry can help you preserve its shine and longevity for years to come. Implementing these cleaning practices into your routine will ensure that your precious pieces remain stunning.
What is Gold Plated Jewelry?
Gold plated jewelry is jewelry made by electroplating a thin layer of gold over a base metal, such as copper, brass, silver, or stainless steel. Gold plating thickness is usually measured in microns (μm) and is classified as:
Flash plating: < 0.03 microns, shorter lifespan
Regular plating: 0.1-2.5 microns, for every day use
Heavy plating: More than 2.5 microns, very durable
The Difference Between Gold Plated, Gold Filled, and Gold Vermeil
Jewelry that is gold plated, gold filled, and gold vermeil often gets confused. The main differences are:
- Gold plated jewelry: Very thin layer of gold, typically less than 1% of the base metal’s weight
- Gold filled jewelry: Contains more gold than plated pieces, with a minimum of 5% of the total weight
- Gold vermeil: Genuinely refers to gold plating applied to sterling silver with a thicker gold plating of at least 2.5 microns
Knowing these distinctions is important for selecting appropriate decontamination methods. In this article, we will focus specifically on gold plated jewelry cleaning, particularly 18K gold plated jewelry cleaning and tarnished gold plated jewelry cleaning.
How to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry: Primary Steps
Knowing how to clean gold plated jewelry not only protects its appearance but also ensures that you can enjoy it for many more occasions.
The Basics of Cleaning Gold Plated Jewelry Follow these simple steps on how to clean gold plated jewelry:
- Make a mild soap solution: In a small bowl, combine warm water (not hot) with a few drops of mild dishwashing soap or baby shampoo. Skip cleaners with sulfates, ammonia or other harsh chemicals.
- Dip gently: Place your jewelry in the soapy water for 30 seconds to 1 minute; no longer.
- Gently scrub with a soft brush: For jewelry with intricate or detailed spots or crevices, make use of the most gentlest baby toothbrush or a jewelry brush specifically — to lightly scrub.
- Rinse thoroughly: Flush the jewelry with cold running water to make sure no soap remains.
- Dab Dry: Use a soft, lint-free cloth (such as eyeglasses cloth or a specialized jewelry cloth) to dab the jewelry dry. Replace them with paper towels or normal towels that can scratch the gold plated surface.
- Air dry: Leave jewelry to air dry for a few minutes before storing to make sure all moisture in crevices has evaporated.
Although these basic steps work for most gold plated jewelry, how to clean 18K gold plated jewelry and how to clean tarnished gold plated jewelry may require some special considerations;
When discussing how to clean gold plated jewelry, it is crucial to remember that gentle care is key. The proper cleaning methods will enhance the jewelry’s life and keep it looking new.
18K Gold Plated Jewelry Clean Up Guide
Though made with this specific gold composition, 18K gold plated jewelry is still plenty tough as a result of being in an alloy, yet because it has a lower percentage of precious metal, this means it will not last as long and requires extra time and effort to maintain. Here are special tips for cleaning 18K gold plated jewelry:
- Gentler, more frequent cleaning: 18K gold plated jewelry should be cleaned more often but for shorter timeframes to prevent frequent rubbing.
- Do not soak for long: Although the 18K gold layer is more durable than that of the thin plated jewellery, avoidance of long strands is still recommended to avoid oxidation of the base.
- 18K gold professional jewelry cleaners: You can try these, but as always read and follow the product instructions.
- Regular polishing: Gently buff and restore the shine of 18K gold plated pieces with a polishing cloth specifically made for delicate gold jewelry.
Note: The thicker plating process we use at HonHo Jewelry makes our 18K gold plated pieces more durable and allows them to withstand daily wear, but they do require care to keep them looking their best!
For those wondering how to clean gold plated jewelry, the secrets lie in using the right tools and techniques that won’t damage the delicate layer of gold.
Do you ever ask yourself how to clean gold plated jewelry effectively? Look no further; we’ve gathered the best practices for you!
To successfully learn how to clean gold plated jewelry, consider the specific instructions for the type of gold plating you own.
Long These Home Items Can Clean Gold Plated Jewelry
There is a lot of question about how to clean gold plated jewelry at home without the need of any professional tools or services. The good news is that there are a number of safe, effective household methods:
Method 1: Soap and Water (The Safest Choice)
As you explore how to clean gold plated jewelry, keep in mind that specific cleaning solutions may work better for different types of jewelry.
When you learn how to clean gold plated jewelry effectively, you can help ensure your pieces remain in great condition.
And here’s that basic method we referred to, for regular cleaning:
So, if you’re asking yourself how to clean gold plated jewelry, take note of these useful tips and tricks.
- Use mild soapy water
- Soak briefly
- Gently wipe
- Rinse thoroughly and dry
Baking Soda Paste (For Light Tarnishing)
The first step in learning how to clean gold plated jewelry is understanding the materials used in its construction.
When considering how to clean gold plated jewelry, always remember that using the gentlest methods is the best approach.
In summary, how to clean gold plated jewelry involves a few key steps to keep your accessories looking their best.
For lightly tarnished gold plated jewelry:
- Combine 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 2 cups warm water
- Let the jewelry soak for around 10-20 seconds
- Soft brush scrub or wipe gently
- Rinse thoroughly and dry
White Vinegar Solution (For Tougher Dirt)
For more stubborn dirt:
- Combine white vinegar and warm water in equal parts
- Let the jewelry soak for a maximum 5 mins
- Using a soft brush, scrub without scrubbing
- Rinse thoroughly and dry
Ultimately, effective cleaning methods for how to clean gold plated jewelry can be easily integrated into your routine.
When dealing with tarnished items, knowing how to clean gold plated jewelry becomes even more critical.
Caution is required, even if these methods are achievable at home. When in doubt, always go the softest route or get a pro. At HonHo Jewelry, we provide specialized services and inspections regarding jewelry cleaning and care, so please get in touch with any questions.
The gold is tarnished again in a matter of months, and you’re back to square one. This is quite the problem move to make.
The gold plating on the jewelry will probably tarnish and lose its luster over the years. Learning how to clean tarnished gold plated jewelry is essential to restoring its lovely look:
For Mild Tarnishing
For mildly tarnished pieces:
- Clean them; Use an official Jewelry cleaning solution (as per product description)
- Or use the above baking soda solution method
- Upon cleaning, lightly buff with a jewelry polishing cloth to bring back the shine
Understanding how to clean gold plated jewelry properly can save you from costly repairs down the line.
For Moderate Tarnishing
For items with moderate tarnish:
- It would be best if you try using white vinegar solution method
- If that doesn’t yield noticeable results, try a professional jewelry cleaner
- Lightly buff with a microfiber cloth, taking care not to rub too hard
For Severe Tarnishing
For heavily tarnished gold plated jewelry:
Cleaning your gold plated jewelry is essential, but knowing how to clean gold plated jewelry correctly is equally important.
- Think about professional cleaning services
- Sometimes it may be required to store you again
- Assess Jewelry value Vs Repalating costs.
How To Clean Various Types Of Base Metal
The way to clean your gold plated jewelry differs based on what base metal it consists of. Here’s some advice for how to clean gold plated jewelry, depending on the type of base metal:
Golden Copper Alloy Jewelry with a Layer of Gold Plating
Copper is a widely-used base metal susceptible to oxidation:
- Steer clear of acidic cleaners such as white vinegar
- Copper oxidation is accelerated by moisture, so make sure to dry them completely after cleaning them.
- If your resistance is still diminishing; consider applying the products used as anti tarnish coating
Gold Plated Brass Based Jewelry
Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc:
- Clean with mild soapy water
- Do not use ammonia-based products
- You want to clean regularly to prevent green oxidisation (verdigris) forming
Gold Plated (Silver Based) Jewelry
Gold plated silver (also known as gold vermeil):
- Can use products for silvers
- Never use sulfur containing products as it blackens silver
- Regularly clean the silver to avoid oxidation.
Gold plated stainless steel with high quality.
Stainless Steel: One of the most durable base metals.
- Can tolerate a little heavier cleaning techniques
- Be you use professional stainless steel cleaners (that are safe for gold plated surfaces)
- As stainless steel does not oxidize, there is still care required to maintain the gold layer.
HonHo Jewelry selects base metals responsibly to ensure our beautiful and durable pieces gold plated. Instructions for cleaning base metals are usually on our product labels.
Guide to Handling Special Situations
Remove stains with these cleaning techniques
Different stains, different cleaning methods:
Makeup Residue
- Use mild soapy water
- For oil-based makeup, first pad a bit of isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) onto the skin
- Flush immediately with water and dry
Perfume and Lotion Residue
- As soon as you can, rinse with warm water
- Clean with mild soapy water
- Wash all residue off thoroughly
Sweat Stains
- Use the baking soda solution
- Gently scrub
- Rinse thoroughly and dry
Special Materials Used to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry
For gold plated jewelry containing gemstones, pearls or enamel:
Gemstones Gold Plated Jewelry
- Do not soak, as some gemstones are sensitive
- With a damp cloth, lightly wipe
- It may be dark in the area around the gemstones
Jewelry for Ladies in Gold Plating with Pearls
- Gently wipe using only a slightly damp cloth.
- Avoid any chemical cleaners
- Do not soak, as pearls are very delicate.
Gold-plated Jewelry with Enamel
- Avoid any abrasive cleaners
- Use very soft cloth to CAREFULLY wipe
- Do not soak or use ultrasonic cleaners
Preventing Is Better Than Cure: Every Day Healthy Tips
Cleaning gold plated jewelry is one more task but is absolutely secondary to the most important one: here is how to prevent tarnish and damage. Here are a few tips for daily care:
Before Wearing
- Last on, first off; Finish your makeup, aroma spritz, and skin care, waiting for them all to dry before you apply adornments.
- Avoid Chemicals: Take jewelry off before cleaning, swimming, or when you are exposed to chemicals.
- Know Your Skin’s pH: If your skin is more on the acidic side, use a layer of oil-free moisturizer where the jewelry will be in contact with your skin as a barrier.
While Wearing
- Do not wear during workout: Exercising cause sweating, the acid in sweat can harm the gold plating.
- Limit Water Exposure: Take off jewelry when washing hands, showering or swimming.
- Never Allow Rubbing with Other Jewelry: This may lead to scratching or peeling of the layer of gold.
Storage Recommendations
- Keep Them Apart: Store each piece in its own compartment in a jewelry box or small pouch.
- Store in dry place, maybe add moisture absorber
- Use Anti-Tarnish Bags: There are some specially designed anti-tarnish bags for gold plated jewelry that will slow down oxidation.
Each purchase at HonHo Jewelry comes with an elegant storage pouch and care instructions to help your jewelry last longer.
Caring for Various Types of Gold Plated Jewelry
Gold plated jewelry comes in different styles, which all require the following care tips:
Gold Plated Rings
- Remove when washing hands
- stay away from hand sanitizers, soaps
- As they collect most filthiness clean them frequently
GOLD PLATED NECKLACES AND BRACELETS
- For electric cigarettes avoid direct contact with perfume
- Focus on cleaning the nooks in chains
- Store flat in order to avoid tangles
Gold Plated Earrings
- Keep away from hairspray and other hair products
- After you wear, wipe with a soft cloth
- Be careful when cleaning the posts
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I know if my jewelry should be cleaned?
You need to clean your jewelry when you see lack of shine or the surface of the jewelry has become discolored or dirty. Regularly review your pieces, if you wear a lot of them regularly.
Is it possible to use an ultrasonic cleaner for gold plated jewelry?
Ultrasonic cleaners are not suitable for gold plated jewelry because the high vibrations can also damage the thin layer of gold.
Is the cleaning process for 18K gold plated jewelry different from that of other gold plated jewelry?
Because the gold content (75%) in 18K gold plated jewelry is higher, it is relatively more durable, but care is still needed. The cleaning methods is essentially the same, but 18K gold plating would be a bit more tolerant for some cleaners.
My gold plated jewelry has begun to now peel. Can it be saved?
The gold layer, once it begins to remove, cannot be restored through cleaning. Instead, you could think about having it re-plated, or you can keep wearing it as a fashion piece.
How often should I clean white gold plated?
For gold plated jewelry that you wear regularly, do some light cleaning every 1 – 2 weeks. For items worn infrequently, clean before storing and when you pull them out to wear them.
How can I clean gold plated jewelry at home as safely as possible?
The safest cleaning in the home is to use mild soapy water, brief soaking, and gentle polishing with a linen cloth.
Jewellery & Gold Plated Ornaments: Why Does Gold Plated Jewellery Turn Black? How To Clean Your Tarnished Gold Plated Jewelry?
Gold plated jewelry becomes black mainly due to base metal oxidation or through wear of the gold. While it is safe to clean gold plated jewelry using a baking soda solution or professional jewelry cleaner, the severe tarnishing may require a professional touch.
Does gold plating thickness require separate cleaning methods?
Yes; thinner gold layers (such as flash plating) tolerate gentler cleaning, and thicker plating can bear a bit more scrubbing.
Does Gold Plated Jewelry Last Forever?
The gold layer will eventually wear off bijoux jewelry when exposed to time and usage; however, if taken care of and cleaned accordingly, you can postpone its brilliant lifespan for a long time.
Can I find professional gold plated jewelry cleaning services?
At many jewelry stores, professional cleaning is available. We offer cleaning tips here at HonHo Jewelry, as well as cleaning services to help care for your pieces and keep them looking great.
By following expert guidelines on how to clean gold plated jewelry, you can enjoy your accessories for many years.
Overall, learning how to clean gold plated jewelry is a valuable skill for any jewelry lover.
