How to take care of plated jewellery

Plated jewellery is a thin layer of gold or platinum over a base metal (often brass, stainless steel, or copper). It gives you the look you love at a friendly price—but it needs gentle care. Here’s how to keep the shine longer.

Quick rules

•  Last on, first off. Put jewellery on after skincare, sunscreen, perfume, and hairspray. Take it off before cleansing or changing.
  
  

•  Keep it dry. Remove for showers, swimming, saunas, the gym, and cleaning. Chlorine, salt, sweat, and steam shorten plating life.
  
  

•  Wipe after wear. A quick buff with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth removes oils and sweat that cause dullness.
  
  

•  Store smart. Keep pieces in individual pouches or zip bags, away from sunlight and  humidity. Add a silica gel or anti-tarnish strip. Avoid bathrooms.
  
  

•  Avoid friction. Heavy stacking, sleeping in chains, or bag chains rubbing can wear plating fast.
  
  

•  Rotate your favourites. Give everyday pieces a rest to extend their life.
  
  

How to clean (safe method)

1. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and a drop of mild dish soap.
   
   

2. Dip a soft cloth (not a brush) and gently wipe.
   
   

3. Rinse briefly with clean water; do not soak.
   
   

4. Pat dry completely with a soft towel, then air-dry for 10 minutes before storing.
   
   

Skip: ultrasonic cleaners, jewellery dips, toothpaste/baking soda, and abrasive polishing cloths—these can strip plating.

Metal-by-metal tips

• Gold/Platinum plated brass: Most prone to tarnish if exposed to moisture and chemicals. Keep very dry and store airtight; wipe after each wear.
  
  

• Stainless steel (incl. PVD plated): Toughest day-to-day option. Still remove for chlorine, salt water, and perfume to protect the finish.
  
  

• Copper base: Develops patina faster and can mark skin where plating thins. Limit exposure to moisture; store with anti-tarnish strips and rotate wear.
  
  

Common questions

• Can I shower in it? Not recommended for plated pieces.
  
  

• Green marks on skin? Natural with copper/brass when plating thins—clean skin and the jewellery, keep dry, and consider rotating wear.
  
  

• Why is my piece dulling? Skin oils, sweat, sunscreen, and friction. Follow the wipe-after-wear rule and store separately.
  
  

When it’s time for a refresh

Plating will wear with time—that’s normal. If your favourite looks tired:

• For heavy everyday wear, consider a stainless steel version where available.

• Consider buying a new one and rotate.
  
  

Have a care question about a specific piece? Get in touch and we’ll advise the best routine for that metal and finish.