How to Clean Gold-Plated Silver Jewelry: A Complete Guide

Gold-plated silver jewelry such as the popular Adinkra pendants offers the beauty of 18k gold at a more affordable price, making it a popular choice for many. However, to keep your pieces looking as radiant as the day you bought them, it’s essential to clean and care for them properly. Unlike solid gold, gold-plated jewelry requires a gentle touch to maintain its luster without wearing down the thin layer of gold. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for cleaning and caring for your gold-plated silver jewelry.

 **Why Gold-Plated Jewelry Needs Special Care**
Gold-plated jewelry is made by coating a layer of gold onto a base metal, often silver. Our premium Adinkra pieces are made with a base of 925 sterling silver with a thick layer of gold (2 microns) plated over, while our much cheaper fashion line is made with a base of stainless steel.  Over time, this gold layer can wear away, especially if exposed to harsh chemicals, perfumes, chlorine or abrasive cleaning methods. Proper care ensures that your jewelry stays beautiful for as long as possible.

**What You’ll Need:**
- A soft, lint-free cloth (preferably microfiber)
- Mild dish soap (free from harsh chemicals)
- Lukewarm water
- A soft-bristled toothbrush (optional)
- A clean, dry towel

**Step-by-Step Cleaning Process**

**1. Prepare a Mild Cleaning Solution**
Start by mixing a few drops of mild dish soap into a bowl of lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the gold plating. Stir the water gently to create a soapy solution.

**2. Soak the Jewelry**
Place your gold-plated silver jewelry in the soapy water and let it soak for about 5 minutes. This helps to loosen any dirt, oils, or debris that may have accumulated on the surface.

**3. Gently Clean the Jewelry**
After soaking, use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the jewelry. If needed, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to carefully clean intricate designs or hard-to-reach areas. Be sure to use light pressure to avoid scratching or wearing down the gold layer.

**4. Rinse Thoroughly**
Once your jewelry is clean, rinse it under lukewarm running water to remove any soap residue. Make sure the water pressure is gentle, and avoid using hot water.

**5. Dry Completely**
Pat your jewelry dry with a clean, soft towel. Make sure to dry it thoroughly, as moisture can lead to tarnishing of the silver underneath the gold plating. Allow the jewelry to air dry completely before wearing or storing it.

**Tips for Maintaining Gold-Plated Jewelry**

- **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Perfume, hairspray, and cleaning products can cause the gold plating to fade. Always apply beauty products before putting on your jewelry, and remove your jewelry before cleaning or swimming.

- **Store Properly:** Keep your gold-plated jewelry in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box to avoid scratches and minimize exposure to air, which can lead to tarnishing.

- **Limit Exposure:** Take off your jewelry when washing hands, showering, or doing physical activities to reduce wear and tear.

- **Polish Gently:** If your jewelry starts to lose its shine, gently polish it with a soft cloth. Avoid using jewelry cleaners or polishing cloths designed for solid gold, as these can be too abrasive.

**When to Replate**
Over time, even with the best care, the gold plating on your jewelry may start to wear thin. If your jewelry loses its golden hue or begins to show the silver underneath, it may be time to have it replated. Contact us for replating of your Adinkra pieces to restore the gold layer, making your jewelry look as good as new.

**Final Thoughts**
Gold-plated silver jewelry can be a stunning and affordable addition to your collection, but it requires careful cleaning and maintenance to stay in top condition. By following these steps and taking care to protect your pieces, you can enjoy their beauty for years to come.

Remember, gentle handling is key—treat your gold-plated jewelry with care, and it will reward you with lasting shine and elegance.

Shop our gold plated sterling silver Adinkra pieces here 

And shop our gold plated fashion pieces here