Elegant and affordable, gold plated jewellery is a popular choice for those who enjoy the lustre of gold without overspending. Jewellery adds a touch of sophistication to your ensemble; it’s important to know how to care for it. One common question that occurs is whether you can shower with your jewellery on.
While aesthetically pleasing, gold plated jewellery is not meant to withstand prolonged exposure to water. The thin electroplated layer is applied over a base metal, which is prone to losing its shine after some time.
Let’s look into some of the dos and don’ts of showering with jewellery and ways to prevent any further damage to your precious pieces: -
The Do’s
1. Use Light Splashes
It is considered safe to splash water on your gold plated jewellery lightly while showering. The thin electroplated layer is resilient and can withstand temporary exposure to water. This means that your jewellery should remain in good condition if you are careful and avoid direct streams of water.
2. Quick Rinse is Fine
A quick rinse while wearing your jewellery is unlikely to cause significant damage to the gold plating. However, it is important to pat your jewellery dry afterwards to reduce the risk of water exposure.
3. Regular Cleaning
Make a habit of regularly maintaining your jewellery. Use a soft, damp cloth to remove any accumulated oils, sweat, and grime from the gold plated jewellery. This will help prevent tarnishing and keep the gold plating in pristine condition.
Avoid scrubbing your gold plated jewellery. The excess friction will cause the electroplated layer to wear off. Instead, gently pat the jewellery piece dry with a soft cloth.
The Don’ts
1. Avoid Soaps and Shampoos
One of the biggest jewellery care mistakes you can make is exposing them to soaps and shampoos. These products contain harsh chemicals, such as sulfur, that can damage the gold plating over time.
2. Avoid Hot Water and Steam
Avoid exposing your jewellery to hot water or steam. Not only will this increase the risk of tarnishing, but the steam will also weaken the adhesive bond between the gold layer and the base water.
3. Avoid Swimming Pools and Saltwater
Avoid wearing gold plated jewellery in saltwater or swimming pools. Swimming pools contain chemicals that corrode the metal base and gold plating.
What to Do’s
Here are a few tips on how you can prolong the lifespan of your gold plated jewellery: -
1. Avoid Moisture
Always remove your gold plated jewellery before exposing it to water. Activities such as showering, swimming, or even exercising will tarnish your pieces. Make sure to dry your jewellery with a soft cloth if it has been exposed to water.
2. Proper Storage
Keep your jewellery in a cool and dry place. Store your gold-plated pieces in a soft pouch or a lined box to prevent scratches and tarnish.
3. Inspect Regularly
Make a habit of inspecting your jewellery regularly for any grime or peeling after your gold plated pieces have been exposed to water.
4. Keep Away from Heat
Keep your gold plated jewellery away from sources of heat, such as hairdryers or direct sunlight. Exposure to heat will damage the electroplated layer.
Caring for your gold plated jewellery doesn’t have to be complicated — it’s all about consistency. By following these simple dos and don’ts, you can help your favourite pieces keep their golden glow for much longer. Remember: a little extra care goes a long way in preserving both the shine and sentiment behind your jewellery.
