Gold plated jewellery can look beautiful for a long time – if you give it a little care. Most dullness and fading comes down to a few everyday habits. Here's how to keep your pieces bright.
Why gold plated jewellery loses its shine
Gold plating is a thin layer of gold over another metal. Two things affect it most: chemicals, which can react with the surface, and friction, which slowly wears it away. The metal underneath matters too – plating over brass or copper tends to darken quickly, while plating over stainless steel is far more resistant. Learn more in does stainless steel jewellery tarnish?
7 habits that keep it shining
- Put jewellery on last. Apply perfume, body lotion, hairspray and fake tan first and let them dry.
- Avoid harsh chemicals. Take rings off before using bleach or strong cleaning products.
- Rinse after the sea or pool. Salt and chlorine are tough on any finish – a quick rinse in fresh water helps.
- Dry it properly. Pat dry with a soft towel rather than leaving it damp.
- Wipe it regularly. A soft, dry cloth removes oils and keeps the shine.
- Store pieces separately. Use a soft pouch or a lined box so pieces don't scratch each other.
- Give rings a break. Rings and bracelets get the most friction, so rotating them helps them last.
How to clean gold plated jewellery
Mix a drop of mild soap into warm water, dip the piece briefly and wipe it gently with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid toothpaste, baking soda and jewellery polishing cloths with abrasives – they can scratch the plating.
What if it has already dulled?
Often it's just a build-up of oils or product, and a gentle clean brings the shine back. If a C'Bella piece loses its colour within a year, it's covered by our 1-Year Colour Warranty.
Looking for pieces that are made to handle everyday life? Shop our waterproof gold plated jewellery, or read what waterproof jewellery really means.