Gold plating is a popular choice for everyday jewellery, but one question keeps coming up: does it tarnish over time? The short answer: yes, like any piece of jewellery, gold plating wears. But with the right habits, you can significantly extend its lifespan. Here's what you need to know.
How does gold plating work?
Gold plating is a layer of gold deposited onto a metal base (usually brass). The thickness of this layer largely determines the durability of the piece. At AGLAIA, our gold-plated rings use 18-carat gold with a 3-micron thickness, which is above the market standard.
To understand the differences between gold finishes, read our article gold-plated vs gold-flashed.
What damages gold plating?
Several factors accelerate the wear of plating:
- Water: showers, pools, the sea. Prolonged contact with water weakens the plating.
- Chemicals: perfumes, creams, hand sanitiser, household products. These substances attack the gold layer.
- Perspiration: skin pH varies from one person to another. More acidic skin wears plating faster.
- Friction: wearing a gold-plated ring on a finger that constantly rubs against a surface (keyboard, steering wheel) speeds up wear.
How long does a gold-plated ring last?
With 3-micron plating and regular care, a gold-plated ring can keep its shine for several years. The exact duration depends on how often you wear it and your everyday habits.
For comparison:
- Gold-flashed: a few months of daily wear
- Gold-plated 3 microns: 2 to 5 years with proper care
- Solid gold: virtually indestructible, but at a very different price point
How to keep your gold-plated ring from tarnishing?
A few simple habits make all the difference:
- Take off your rings before washing your hands, showering or working out.
- Put your jewellery on last: apply creams and perfume before slipping on your rings.
- Store them in a pouch or individual case to avoid friction between pieces.
- Wipe them with a soft, dry cloth after each use.
For a complete care guide, read our article how to clean and care for your rings.
What if the plating starts to wear?
If you notice the gold colour fading in places, that's normal over time. A few options:
- Have the ring re-plated: some jewellers offer a fresh layer of plating to bring your piece back to life.
- Rotate your rings: by wearing several rings in rotation, you reduce wear on each one. Discover our tips for pairing and stacking your rings.
AGLAIA gold plating: a lasting choice
Our rings are made in France with 18-carat gold plating, 3 microns thick. This thickness, combined with a quality brass base, guarantees superior daily resistance.
Discover our gold-plated rings collection and find the model that will accompany you every day. To help you choose, read our complete guide to choosing your gold-plated ring.
