How do you care for gold-plated sterling silver jewelry and what is the difference between gold-plated sterling silver and gold-filled jewelry?
As a jewelry enthusiast and seller of sterling silver jewelry and gold plated sterling silver jewelry, I recently realized that sometimes I take certain knowledge for granted and don't always share it. But maybe this will help you too! In this blog post I will explain how to maintain gold plated sterling silver jewelry and what the difference is between gold plated sterling silver and gold filled jewelry.
1. The maintenance of gold-plated sterling silver jewelry
1.1. Avoid contact with water and chemicals: Water, soap, perfume, lotion and other chemicals can affect the gold-plated layer. Therefore, remove your gold-plated sterling silver jewelry before showering, swimming or cleaning.
1.2. Store them properly: Store your gold plated jewelry in a sealed jewelry box or bag to protect it from air, moisture and dust. This helps preserve the shine and color.
1.3. Cleaning: Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to gently clean your gold plated jewelry. Avoid using chemical cleaners as they can damage the gold plating.
2. The difference between gold-plated sterling silver and gold-filled jewelry
2.1. Gold-plated sterling silver: Gold-plated sterling silver refers to jewelry that has a layer of gold applied to a base of sterling silver. This gives the jewelry a golden appearance. At Jewels with Flair you will find gold-plated jewelry with a high-quality plating of at least 18 carat gold. In addition, an extra coating has been applied to protect this layer. The gold-plated layer may wear off over time, depending on use and maintenance.
2.1 Gold filled jewelry: Gold filled jewelry is made by mechanically bonding a thick layer of gold to a base of another metal, such as copper or brass. The gold content in gold-filled jewelry is higher than gold-plated silver, making them extremely durable and wear less quickly. It is even said that a gold filled piece of jewelry, if properly maintained, will last a lifetime.
At Jewels with Flair we use gold filled wire for almost all of the wrapping. We also have various earrings that consist entirely of gold filled parts.
Tips for buying and wearing gold plated sterling silver jewelry:
- Choose quality: Buy gold plated sterling silver jewelry from reliable jewelers or shops. This way you are assured of good quality and durability.
- Remove During Activities: Remove your gold-plated jewelry during sports, cleaning, or other activities that may expose it to damage or chemicals.
- Regular maintenance: Make it a habit to regularly clean your gold-plated jewelry and check it for any signs of wear. This way you can intervene in time and extend the life of your jewelry.
Tips for maintaining and wearing gold filled jewelry:
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Clean carefully: Clean your gold filled jewelry regularly with a soft cloth or a special jewelry cleaner for gold filled. Avoid abrasive materials and harsh chemicals that can damage the gold plating.
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Remove during activities: Remove your gold filled jewelry during sports, showering, swimming and other activities where they may come into contact with water, chemicals or physical impact. This minimizes the risk of damage.
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Store with care: Store your gold-filled jewelry in a closed jewelry box or bag to protect it from air, moisture and dust. This keeps the shine longer.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your gold filled & gold plated sterling silver jewelry retains its beautiful appearance and lasts for a long time. Discover the high-quality collection of Jewels with Flair and enjoy timeless beauty and durability in your jewelry collection.
