Electroplated gold jewelry has become a popular alternative to solid gold pieces due to its affordability and luxurious appearance. However, some people wonder about the durability and longevity of gold plating. Does electroplated gold fade, tarnish or wear off over time? Here is a comprehensive look at the electroplating process, factors that affect gold plating durability, proper care and maintenance tips to make your jewelry last longer.

What is Electroplating and How is Gold Plated?

Electroplating is a process where a thin layer of gold is bonded to the surface of another metal through an electric current in a chemical bath. This allows inexpensive metals like sterling silver, copper, nickel or brass to take on the desirable gold appearance and properties [1].

The gold used for plating is real gold, typically 10K, 14K or 18K gold. The minimum thickness for gold plating is usually around 0.5 microns. Some pieces may have thicker plating up to 5 microns for added durability. The thicker the gold layer, the longer it will potentially last [1].

During the electroplating process, the jewelry piece serves as the cathode (negative electrode) in the chemical bath. When an electric current is applied, positive gold ions in the solution are attracted to the cathode. The gold ions deposit onto the jewelry surface creating an even layer of gold [2].

After plating, the pieces may be polished and buffed to create a brilliant finish. The result is a product with the look and feel of solid gold, at a fraction of the cost.

Factors That Cause Gold Plating to Fade

While electroplated gold jewelry has a luxurious initial appearance, it does not have the same level of permanence as solid gold. So what causes gold plating to wear off over time?

Body Chemistry

Skin oils, perfumes, makeup and other cosmetics can react with the gold plating, especially on frequently handled pieces like rings and bracelets. The chemicals in these products can slowly erode the thin layer of gold [3].

Finger oils combined with friction from normal wear accelerates the fading process. Areas that rub against skin and clothing tend to show wear sooner.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to water, especially chlorinated water from pools or hot tubs, can be damaging to gold plating. Moisture allows corrosion to take place under the gold layer, leading to fading and peeling [4].

Chemicals like hairspray, bleach, perfume, soap and certain cleaners can be abrasive to the plating, causing it to thin out prematurely [4].

Care and Maintenance

Improper care and cleaning is another factor that contributes to the breakdown of gold plating. Using harsh jewelry cleaners, chemicals or abrasive scrubbing to clean gold plated pieces can scratch and erode the surface [4].

Failing to remove jewelry before activities like exercising, swimming or bathing also accelerates wear. The combination of chemicals, moisture and friction speeds up the fading process.

Signs of Fading Gold Plating

How can you tell if your gold plated jewelry is starting to fade? Here are some visible signs to watch out for:

Loss of shine and luster
Development of a thin, worn appearance
Visible wearing down to the base metal in places
Peeling or flaking of the gold layer
Visible scratches, pits or abrasions
Discoloration to a darker yellow or gray tone

These effects will first appear in areas that receive the most contact like prong tips, undersides of rings, the post of earrings or areas that frequently rub against skin or clothing [5].

If fading is detected early, it is possible to have the piece re-plated to restore its original appearance. But if the damage is extensive, re-plating may not be an option.

Tips to Make Gold Plating Last Longer

While gold plating will eventually wear away with normal use, you can maximize its lifespan with proper care and maintenance. Here are some useful tips for making gold plated jewelry last longer:

Avoid wearing plated jewelry daily. Reserve it for special occasions to limit exposure to daily wear and tear. The less it is worn, the longer the plating will last.
When wearing plated rings and bracelets, put them on after applying any lotions, perfumes or hand sanitizers. Let products fully dry first to prevent chemical reactions with the plating.
Take jewelry off before activities that cause excessive perspiration, exposure to chemicals or friction – like exercising, gardening, cleaning, swimming or bathing.
Use a polishing cloth specifically for plated metals to occasionally buff pieces and restore shine. Avoid using polishes that are too abrasive.
Clean plated jewelry regularly using a mild dish soap, warm water and soft-bristled toothbrush. Gently scrub crevices and undersides. Avoid harsh jewelry cleaners.
After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Air dry pieces to prevent water spots.
Store plated pieces separately from other jewelry to prevent surface scratches. Use a tarnish prevention cloth or anti-tarnish strips in storage bags.

How Long Does Gold Plating Last?

With proper care and occasional re-plating, gold plated jewelry can last for years. But without maintenance, the plating may begin fading within 1-3 years of regular use [5]. Rings and bracelets tend to lose plating quicker than earrings or pendants due to constant hand contact.

Higher karat gold plating like 18k tends to last longer than lower karats like 10k or 14k. But for the best durability, pieces with the thickest gold plating will wear the best over time.

Solid gold jewelry is the best option if you want a permanent precious metal that maintains its beauty for a lifetime. For special occasion jewelry on a budget, gold plated pieces can serve the purpose. Just be prepared for some maintenance to keep it looking its best.

When to Re-Plate Gold Jewelry

If your gold plated jewelry begins showing signs of visible wear and fading, it may be time to have it re-plated. Look for a reputable electroplating company that specializes in jewelry.

The process involves stripping the old plating off and re-depositing a fresh layer of gold for a renewal of the original appearance. In some cases, polishing or refinishing certain areas is all that is needed to restore the luster [6].

Depending on the extent of damage and amount of replating needed, re-plating costs typically range from $20 to $100+. With proper occasional maintenance, your gold plated pieces can keep their beautiful shine.

Caring for Gold Plated Jewelry

To keep gold plated jewelry looking its best, be selective about when to wear it and care for it properly in between wears. Here are some care tips to remember [7]:

Use a polishing cloth to buff and add shine. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.
Clean with mild dish soap & water using a soft toothbrush and rinse thoroughly.
Pat dry with a soft cloth, do not rub. Allow to fully air dry.
Apply lotion, perfume, hairspray etc. before putting jewelry on.
Take plated jewelry off before swimming, exercising or cleaning.
Store pieces separately in a fabric-lined box or pouch.

High Quality Gold Plating vs. Low Quality

Not all gold plated jewelry is created equal when it comes to durability. Higher quality plating uses thicker layers of gold that better withstand wear and tear. Some factors that indicate quality plating include [8]:

Karat of gold used – 14k or 18k tends to last longer than 10k gold.
Thickness of plating – 2-5 microns is ideal, 0.5 micron is minimum.
Base metals – brass, copper and sterling silver provide the best foundations.
Level of polish – higher quality plating has a smoother, more lustrous finish.
Markings – quality pieces will be stamped with gold karat, manufacturer’s mark, country of origin.
Price – better plating requires more gold and workmanship, so costs more.
Reputation of manufacturer – established, reputable companies produce heirloom quality plating.

Cheap plated jewelry tends to fade quickly with thin plating that chips and peels easily. Paying a little more for quality ensures your jewelry has maximum durability and longevity.

Maintaining the Beauty of Gold Plated Jewelry

Gold plated jewelry allows you to enjoy the luxurious look and feel of gold without the high price tag. While it may not have the permanence of solid gold, proper care goes a long way in maintaining its beauty.

Avoid over-wearing, chemical exposure and rough handling that can prematurely fade the plating. With occasional re-plating and polishing, your quality gold plated pieces can stay vibrant for many years of occasional wear.

Take steps to clean, store and protect the plating. And when damage does occur, trust an expert jeweler to replate and restore the original luster. With some basic maintenance, you can enjoy the affordability and style of gold plated jewelry while still getting good wear from your investment.

References

[1] International Plating Corporation. “Gold Plating Services”. https://www.electroplating.com/gold-plating-services/

[2] Aalco Metals Ltd. “Introduction to Electroplating”. https://www.aalco.co.uk/datasheets/Introduction-to-Electroplating_144.ashx

[3] Martha Stewart. “Caring for Gold-Plated Jewelry”. https://www.marthastewart.com/1517174/caring-gold-plated-jewelry

[4] Goldia. “Taking Care of Gold Plated Jewelry”. https://goldia.com/taking-care-of-gold-plated-jewelry/

[5] Doyle & Doyle. “How Long Does Gold Plating Last?”. https://doyledoyle.com/how-long-does-gold-plating-last/

[6] Worthy. “How Much Does it Cost to Get Jewelry Replated?” https://www.worthy.com/blog/costs-jewelry-replating/

[7] Vintage Fashion Guild. “Caring for Your Vintage and Antique Jewelry”. https://vintagefashionguild.org/label-resource/caring-for-your-vintage-jewelry/

[8] The Natural Sapphire Company. “What is Gold Vermeil Jewelry? A Guide to Plating”. https://www.thenaturalsapphirecompany.com/education/vermeil-jewelry-guide/