Jewellery that is “gold plated” has had a thin layer of 24k gold applied to its exterior. It’s a cheaper metal or alloy that’s been coated in a layer to make it look like real gold or silver. Because of its low price and abundant design options, this jewellery has recently experienced a meteoric rise in Kuwait.
This jewellery may have the same look as real gold, but it needs special handling. Due to the delicate nature of the gold coating, it is important to keep your jewellery away from water, lotions, and other chemicals that could eventually wear away the gold.
Gold-plated Jewellery: a Short History
Evidence of plate work in jewellery dates all the way back to ancient Egypt and Rome. Gold plating was a common technique used in these cultures to lower the price of jewellery so that it could be worn by more people. Art Deco, an era characterised by modern, geometric forms, saw its heyday in the 1920s and 1930s.
During WWII, when metals were rationed and rare, this became a popular alternative. Those who covet the style but not the hefty price tag continue to buy up this jewellery. Improvements in gold plating durability and longevity have also resulted from recent technological developments. Now you can buy gold-plated earrings online for a touch of elegance and style
Jewellery with a Modern Gold Plating
Today, gold-plated jewellery are all the rage. It’s a lot cheaper than buying real gold necklace but still looks just as classy and luxurious.
The base metal, typically brass or copper, is coated with a thin layer of gold through the plating process. This produces a thick coating of gold that will last for years on the jewellery. The price of jewellery is proportional to its gold content; however, the thickness of the gold layer varies.
Gold-plated necklaces ranges from the incredibly delicate and straightforward to the extremely complex and ornate. It’s a must-have for any jewellery box because it can be worn with so many different styles.
Pros of Gold-plated Jewellery
The advantages it offers have contributed to its rising popularity. The low price is one of the main benefits. Plating a piece of jewellery makes it a cheaper alternative to solid gold. People who want to show their support but can’t justify the high price tag now have a more affordable option. Furthermore, gold plated jewelry is stronger, and lasts longer than its nonplated counterparts.
Because of the thick coating provided by the gold electroplating, the object will not oxidise, tarnish, or change colour over time. Because of how simple it is to maintain, it should last for quite some time if given the attention it deserves. As a result, it’s a great option for people trying to save money without sacrificing quality of life.
Cons of Gold-plated Jewelry
Gold plated jewellery in Kuwait can have the same eye-catching appearance as solid gold pieces, but it is not as durable. This is because the protective coating wears away easily, revealing the less desirable base metal underneath.
What if your skin is particularly delicate, or if you suffer from allergies. The metal underneath the gold plating may cause irritation or allergic reactions to the skin, so this may not be the best option for you. The fact that gold plating is not as water resistant means that it may lose its shine and beauty over time. When upkeep costs are factored in, the price of a plated item may exceed that of an unplated equivalent.
Last but not least, though the plated item is typically less expensive than solid gold jewellery, it may still tarnish over time depending on the quality and thickness of the gold plating. Therefore, you may need to spend more money initially to make it last.
Tips for Maintaining your Gold-plated Jewellery
If you’re looking to spruce up your wardrobe without breaking the bank, gold plated jewellery is the way to go. However, some effort and focus is required to keep it healthy. When taking care of your gold plated jewellery, it’s crucial to remember to stay away from any cleaning solutions that could eat away at the plating.
The elegant gold-plated bracelet for ladies adds a touch of sophistication to her ensemble. Cleaning it with harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach or ammonia is not recommended. Keep it safe from scratches by keeping it in a soft pouch or a jewellery box that isn’t shared with other items.
Use a gentle soap and water solution or a soft cloth to clean your jewellery. Take care not to scrub too vigorously. Following these guidelines for jewellery care will prolong the life of your precious pieces. To prevent corrosion, please do not leave it submerged in water for long periods of time.
What is the Typical Lifespan of Gold-plated Jewellery?
The durability is proportional to the layer thickness, which is typically less than 1 micron. How long your gold necklace or bracelet lasts will vary based on its thickness, the metal it is set in, and how often you wear it. The gold plating has a lifespan of about a year and a half at the very most.
Conclusion
There are pros and cons to wearing jewellery with a gold plating. Soft and pliable solids are easier to work with. Because of this, gold-plated jewellery is a great option for those who want the look of real gold without the hefty price tag. If you want to do online jewellery shopping in Kuwait, Mighzalarab Jewellers is your best bet. The gold-plated jewellery can be easily polished and cleaned, and it will retain its good looks for a long time.
The thin layer of gold, however, runs the risk of wearing off over time. Consequently, a less desirable base metal is exposed. Those with particularly delicate skin may also find the plating to be too irritating to use. The underlying metal can provoke an immune system response, making some people sensitive to it. Gold-plated jewellery may or may not be the best option, depending on the wearer’s tastes and priorities.