Gold-plated jewellery has taken the accessories world by storm, becoming a go-to choice for anyone who loves the look of gold without the luxury price tag. But what does “gold-plated” actually mean? Gold-plated jewellery is created by electroplating which is a process where a base metal is coated with a thin layer of real gold. This produces the same radiant shine of solid gold, making gold-plated designs an affordable favourite for everyday wear.

A Closer Look at Gold-Plated Jewellery

When it comes to understanding gold-plated jewellery, thickness and material has an important role. The gold layer applied during electroplating can vary, but it’s usually between 0.5 to 2.5 micrometres, which is enough to give each piece its signature golden glow while keeping it lightweight and affordable. The base metals that can be used are sterling silver, brass or stainless steel and they provide structure and durability underneath the gold layer.

In contrast, solid gold is made entirely from gold alloy and naturally provides more durability and resistance to everyday wear. Although solid gold comes with a premium price, gold-plated jewellery gives you the same refined style for less.

Does Gold-Plated Jewellery Tarnish?

Gold-plated jewellery can tarnish over time, but with the correct handling and care, it can keep its shine for years. Factors such as exposure to water, sweat, perfumes and harsh cleaning products can break down the thin gold layer, causing a small amount of discolouration to the base metal underneath.

A common myth is that gold-plated pieces always turn green or black. This only happens if the jewellery isn’t properly cared for or if the plating is very thin. By storing pieces carefully, avoiding chemicals and gently cleaning them with a soft cloth, gold-plated jewellery can maintain its beautiful finish and remain a favourite in your jewellery collection for years to come.

How to Clean Gold-Plated Jewellery

Cleaning gold-plated jewellery is simple, just remember to handle your piece gently to protect the thin gold layer. For an everyday clean, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe your pieces after each wear to remove dirt and oils. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap mixed with warm water and a soft cloth or brush, then rinse quickly and pat dry as you should never soak gold-plated jewellery. Lastly, storing pieces separately in a jewellery box or pouch also helps prevent scratches and keeps your gold-plated jewellery looking its best for longer.

Learn how to care for your jewellery here.

Different gold pieces we offer at Jon Richard

At Jon Richard, our gold collection offers something for every style and occasion. From delicate gold-plated pendants to timeless solid gold pieces, each item is designed to combine elegance with everyday wear. Whether you’re looking for a subtle addition to your jewellery box or a statement piece to elevate an outfit, our range makes it easy to find the perfect gold piece for you or as a thoughtful gift.

Gold-plated jewellery

Many of our Gold-plated jewellery pieces feature designs of thoughtful details like stones, enamel, or clover motifs, making them perfect for both daily styling and gifting. With a variety of pieces available gift-box ready, Jon Richard’s gold-plated collection is ideal for stocking fillers.

Solid gold jewellery

Jon Richard also crafts a beautiful range of solid gold jewellery, ranging from 14K to 18K. This collection includes everything from sparkly gold bracelets to personalised birthstone sets, as well as festive favourites perfect for gifting, such as Christmas crackers. Whether you’re treating yourself or choosing a meaningful gift, Jon Richard’s solid gold range delivers both quality and style.

FAQs:

Q: What is the difference between 14ct gold-plated and 18ct gold-plated jewellery?

A: 18ct gold-plated jewellery has a higher gold content (75% vs 58.3%), giving it a richer colour, but both are thin layers over a base metal.

Q: What is the difference between gold-plated and gold vermeil jewellery?

A: Gold vermeil uses sterling silver as the base and a thicker gold layer, making it more durable than standard gold-plated pieces.

Q: Can I shower with 14ct gold-plated jewellery?

A: We recommend removing gold-plated jewellery before showering or swimming to keep the gold layer looking its best.

Q: Is gold-plated jewellery real gold?

A: Yes, it has a thin layer of real gold over a base metal.