Yes, you can wear gold plated jewellery every day when the gold is plated onto a strong base metal. How long the plating lasts depends on three things: the metal underneath, the plating method and how the jewellery is worn.
At DANSK Copenhagen, our gold is 18K ION plated onto 316L stainless steel, so it is made for daily wear, water included.
How long does gold plating last?
Standard gold plating on brass can start to wear within months of daily use, especially on rings and bracelets. 18K ION plating on steel is harder and bonded to the steel, so it resists tarnishing and lasts much longer with everyday wear.
What makes gold plating wear faster?
- Friction. Rings and bracelets rub against surfaces all day.
- Chemicals. Perfume, hand sanitiser and some lotions are harder on plating than water.
- The base metal. Brass and copper can react underneath and show through.
- Thin plating. A thin layer simply has less to give.
ION plating vs standard gold plating
ION plating bonds the gold to the steel at a molecular level. The result is a harder, more wear-resistant surface than standard electroplating. Read more in ION vs PVD plating and waterproof gold plated jewellery, explained.
Can you wear gold plated jewellery in water?
Yes, when it is ION plated onto 316L steel. You can keep it on in the shower and in the sea. Standard plating on brass is better taken off before water.
How to make gold plated jewellery last longer
- Put jewellery on after perfume and lotion.
- Rinse after the sea or the pool and pat dry.
- Store rings and bracelets apart so they do not scratch each other.
- Clean gently with mild soap; see how to clean gold plated jewellery.
Which designs are best for daily wear?
Earrings and necklaces wear the slowest, because they rub against the least. For rings and bracelets, choose smooth shapes and ION-plated steel.
Explore our gold jewellery or start with ESSENTIALS.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear gold plated jewellery every day?
Yes, when the gold is plated onto a strong base metal. 18K ION plating on 316L steel is made for daily wear, water included.
How long does gold plating last?
It depends on the base metal, the plating method and how you wear it. ION plating on steel lasts much longer than standard plating on brass.
Can you shower with gold plated jewellery?
Yes, when it is ION plated onto 316L stainless steel. Standard plating on brass is better taken off.
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