Does Gold-Plated Jewelry Tarnish? | Care Tips from Chapters of Joy
Why It Matters
Gold-plated jewelry gives you the glow of gold without the high cost. With the right care, these pieces stay radiant for years.
Understanding Gold-Plated Jewelry
Gold-plated jewelry has a thin layer of real gold over base metals like brass, copper, or stainless steel.
- Thin plating (0.17 microns) is delicate.
- Heavy plating (up to 2.5 microns) lasts longer.
This makes gold-plated pieces affordable and almost identical in appearance to solid gold.
Why Does It Tarnish?
Gold itself doesn’t tarnish — the base metal beneath reacts with moisture and air when the gold layer wears off.
Tarnish speeds up with:
- Lower-quality base metals
- Thin plating
- Exposure to humidity, perfume, sweat
- Frequent wear
How Long Does It Last?
High-quality gold-plated jewelry can last 1–3 years with frequent wear, or much longer with occasional use.
For cleaning, follow our Jewelry Care & Maintenance guide.
Tips to Prevent Tarnishing
- Remove before showering, swimming, or applying perfume.
- Wipe with a soft cloth after each wear.
- Store in a soft pouch or lined box, away from humidity.
- Remove during workouts to limit friction.
- Re-plate when needed to restore shine.
Caring for Gold-Plated Jewelry
- Wipe regularly with a soft cloth.
- Wash occasionally with mild soap, rinse, and dry well.
- Store separately to avoid scratches.
- Avoid abrasives that can strip the gold.
Conclusion
Yes, gold-plated jewelry can tarnish — but with care, it remains elegant, affordable, and long-lasting.
Protect it from moisture and clean it gently to keep your Chapters of Joy keepsakes glowing beautifully.