How to reduce wear to gold, silver, rose-gold, rhodium and other plated jewellery finishes.
Plating Is a Surface Finish
Plated jewellery has a surface layer applied over the underlying metal. With wear, friction and chemical exposure, that layer can gradually become thinner and the base colour may eventually show through.
How to Make a Plated Finish Last Longer
- Keep plated jewellery away from perfume, hairspray, creams and cleaning chemicals.
- Remove it before swimming, showering, exercise and manual work.
- Avoid rubbing the piece against hard surfaces or stacking it tightly against other jewellery.
- Wipe gently with a soft dry cloth after wear.
- Store separately in a soft pouch or lined compartment.
Cleaning Plated Jewellery
Avoid abrasive compounds and aggressive polishing because these can remove the plating. For light surface residue, a soft cloth is the safest starting point. If deeper cleaning is needed, confirm the correct method for the particular plating and any stones in the item.
Replating
A worn plated finish can often be renewed, subject to the jewellery being suitable. Gold Factory offers plating and finishing services including gold, silver, rose-gold and rhodium finishes, with the appropriate process confirmed after assessment.
Wear is affected by use Rings, bracelets and frequently handled surfaces normally experience more friction than pendants or earrings, so plating can wear at different rates even when pieces were finished at the same time. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is worn plating a defect?
Not necessarily. Plating is a surface finish and normal friction gradually wears it. Very rapid or unusual deterioration should still be assessed if you are concerned.
Can I polish plated jewellery with metal polish?
Avoid abrasive metal polishes unless specifically approved for the plated finish. They can remove the coating.
Can plated jewellery be replated?
Many pieces can, subject to the base metal, construction, stones and condition of the item.
Related Gold Factory Guides & Services
- White Gold & Rhodium Care
- Professional Jewellery Cleaning
- Jewellery Plating & Finishing
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