How to care for gold-plated costume jewellery
In short: to make gold-plated costume jewellery last, put it on last (after perfume and cream), clean it only with a soft dry cloth, keep it away from water, sweat and chemicals, and store each piece separately in a soft pouch away from humidity. The plating is a thin layer of gold over a metal base: handling it gently is what preserves its shine over time.
What gold plating is (and why it needs care)
Gold-plated costume jewellery is made by coating a base metal — usually brass — with a thin layer of gold that gives it its warm colour and brightness. In quality costume jewellery the layer is thicker and more durable (on L'Officiel Roma pieces, for example, the plating is 18-karat gold). Because it is still a thin surface, its main enemy is chemical abrasion: perfume, creams, sweat and water gradually dull it.
5 rules to make it last
- Put it on last. Apply make-up, perfume and cream first, then your jewellery, so it avoids direct contact with the substances that attack the plating.
- Avoid water. Take it off before washing your hands, showering, swimming or exercising. Chlorine and sweat are especially aggressive.
- Clean it dry. After wear, gently wipe it with a soft dry cloth to remove traces of oil and sweat. No water, no abrasives, no alcohol.
- Store it well. Keep each piece separately in a soft pouch to avoid scratches and rubbing between items. Keep away from humidity and heat.
- Let pieces rest. Rotating your jewellery rather than always wearing the same piece reduces wear and extends its life.
What NOT to do
Avoid DIY soaking solutions, toothpaste, baking soda or abrasive cloths: they suit solid gold, but on plating they risk removing the gold layer. And avoid wearing costume jewellery in the shower or pool "for convenience" — it is the mistake that most often ruins a piece.
What about stones and pearls?
If a piece has natural stones or pearls, the same gentle rule applies: dry cloth, no water and no perfume directly on the stones. Porous stones (such as lava) and pearls absorb substances easily and need even more care.
Frequently asked questions
Does gold-plated costume jewellery tarnish?
Over time, and with contact with sweat and chemicals, it can dull. Following the rules above — especially avoiding water and putting it on last — keeps its shine far longer.
Can I get gold-plated jewellery wet?
Better not. Water, and chlorine and salt water in particular, speeds up wear of the plating. Always remove it before washing, swimming or exercising.
How long does gold plating last?
It depends on the thickness of the plating and how you treat it. Quality plating (like the 18k gold on L'Officiel Roma pieces), cared for properly, lasts many years.
How do I clean it without ruining it?
Only with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water, alcohol, toothpaste and abrasive cloths.
Written by the L'Officiel Roma atelier, an Italian costume jewellery maison, Made in Italy since 1969. Discover our necklaces and earrings, designed and handcrafted in Italy.