Gold plated jewellery offers a beautiful, budget-friendly way to enjoy the look of gold. But a common question lingers: can you wear it in water? Is gold plated jewellery waterproof? The short answer is: no, not really.
While a quick splash might not cause immediate damage, prolonged or repeated exposure to water can significantly impact the lifespan and appearance of your gold plated pieces. Let's delve into why.
Understanding Gold Plating
First, it's crucial to understand what gold plating is. It involves a thin layer of gold, typically applied over a base metal like brass, copper, or silver. This layer, while visually appealing, is delicate and susceptible to wear and tear.
Why Water is the Enemy
Here's why water, and especially certain types of water, can damage gold plated jewellery:
- Chlorine and Saltwater: Pools and oceans contain chlorine and salt, respectively. These are highly corrosive substances that can react with the base metal and the gold plating itself, causing discoloration, tarnishing, and even peeling.
- Tap Water: While seemingly harmless, tap water can also contain minerals and chemicals that can gradually erode the plating.
- Soaps and Shampoos: Everyday products like soaps, shampoos, and lotions can contain harsh chemicals that accelerate the breakdown of the gold layer.
- Moisture and Oxidation: Even if you dry your jewellery thoroughly, trapped moisture can lead to oxidation, causing the base metal to tarnish and affect the gold finish.
What Happens When Gold Plating Gets Wet?
- Tarnishing: The base metal may react with water and air, leading to a dull or discolored appearance.
- Discoloration: The gold layer can lose its vibrant hue, becoming faded or patchy.
- Peeling: The thin gold layer can separate from the base metal, revealing the underlying material.
- Reduced Lifespan: Repeated exposure to water will significantly shorten the lifespan of your gold plated jewellery.
How to Protect Your Gold Plated Jewellery
While avoiding water entirely might not always be practical, here are some tips to minimize damage:
- Remove before swimming or showering: This is the most crucial step. Always take off your gold plated jewellery before entering pools, oceans, hot tubs, or taking a shower.
- Avoid contact with harsh chemicals: Keep your jewellery away from cleaning products, lotions, perfumes, and other chemicals.
- Dry thoroughly: If your jewellery accidentally gets wet, pat it dry immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Store properly: Store your gold plated jewellery in a dry, cool place, away from humidity. Consider using a jewellery box or pouch to prevent scratches and tangling.
- Regular cleaning: Gently clean your jewellery with a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
In Conclusion
While gold plated jewellery offers a beautiful and affordable option, it's not designed for constant exposure to water. To maintain its shine and extend its lifespan, it's best to keep it dry and away from harsh chemicals. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your gold plated pieces for longer.