Should You Buy Gold Plated Jewellery? Find Out Here

Gold jewellery has always been a symbol of beauty, wealth, and style. But not everyone can afford solid gold, which is why gold plated jewellery has become so popular. Many people wonder—is gold plated jewellery worth it? In this guide, we explain everything you need to know before buying, including cost, care, and durability.

What Is Gold Plated?

Gold plated jewellery is made when a very thin layer of gold is added on top of another metal, usually brass, copper, or silver. The gold layer is often less than 1 micron thick. This makes it affordable, but it also means the plating can wear off over time.

According to the Jewellery Market Report 2023, over 65% of affordable fashion jewellery is gold plated, showing just how common it is.

Is Gold Plated Like Gold Vermeil?

Gold plated and gold vermeil are not the same. Both involve coating another metal with gold, but vermeil is higher quality. Gold vermeil must have a thicker layer of gold (at least 2.5 microns) over sterling silver. Gold plating, however, can use any base metal and usually has a thinner layer of gold.

• Gold plated: cheaper, thinner layer, less durable.

• Gold vermeil: better quality, sterling silver base, lasts longer.

How Much Does Gold Plated Jewellery Cost?

Gold plated jewellery is very affordable. A simple gold plated necklace can cost as little as £20–£50, while larger or more detailed pieces might range between £100–£200.

By comparison, a similar design in solid gold could cost over £1,000. This makes gold plated jewellery ideal if you want the look of gold without the high price.

How Do You Take Care of Gold Jewellery?

Gold plated jewellery needs gentle care. Because the gold layer is so thin, it can fade if not handled properly.

• Keep it away from water, sweat, and chemicals.

• Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising.

• Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.

How Do You Repair Gold Jewellery?

Gold plated jewellery can be repaired by re-plating. A jeweller can add a fresh layer of gold to make it look new again. However, this can cost anywhere between £30–£80 per piece depending on size.

Solid gold, on the other hand, can be soldered, polished, and reshaped without losing value, which makes it more durable in the long run.

Where Should You Buy Gold Jewellery?

If you want gold plated jewellery, you can buy it from:

• High-street fashion stores – affordable but may use lower quality metals.

• Online jewellery shops – wider range and often better quality.

• Specialist jewellers – higher-grade plating with better durability.

Always check product details before buying. Look for thickness of plating and base metal type.

Should You Polish Gold Plating?

Polishing gold plated jewellery with strong chemicals or rough cloths can remove the thin gold layer. Instead, use a soft cloth with gentle wiping. Never use silver polish or jewellery dips on gold plating.

Does Gold Plating Rub Off Easily?

Yes, gold plating can rub off with frequent use. Rings and bracelets wear faster because they rub against surfaces, while necklaces and earrings tend to last longer. On average, gold plating lasts about 1–3 years depending on care and thickness.

How Do You Store Gold Plated Jewellery?

Proper storage helps gold plated jewellery last longer.

• Keep each piece in a soft pouch or separate box.

• Avoid storing in humid areas like bathrooms.

• Use anti-tarnish strips in storage boxes to reduce wear.

How Do You Make Sure Gold Plating Lasts a Long Time?

To make gold plated jewellery last:

• Wear it occasionally, not every day.

• Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, and soaps.

• Get it re-plated when it starts to fade.

According to industry jewellers, regular re-plating can extend the life of gold plated jewellery by 5–10 years.

Conclusion

Gold plated jewellery is stylish, affordable, and perfect for fashion trends. It gives you the look of gold without the heavy price tag. But it is not meant to last forever. If you want long-lasting, valuable jewellery, solid gold is a better investment.

The key is knowing your goals—if you want budget-friendly beauty for now, gold plated jewellery is worth it. If you want lasting value, go for solid gold.

FAQ’S

Is gold plated jewellery real gold?
Yes, but only the outer layer is gold.

Does gold plated jewellery tarnish?
It doesn’t tarnish like silver, but the gold layer can fade over time.

Can gold plated jewellery be worn every day?
You can, but it will wear off faster with daily use.

Is gold plated better than gold vermeil?
No, vermeil is higher quality and lasts longer.

Can gold plated jewellery be re-plated?
Yes, a jeweller can restore the gold layer when it fades.