Gold-Plated Jewelry

The gold on the surface is real gold, but the piece isn't solid gold throughout. Our gold-plated jewelry has a core of real 925 sterling silver with a layer of 18 karat gold on top.

In a solid gold piece, the whole thing is gold. In a plated piece, the gold sits as a layer on the surface of another metal. Solid gold keeps its colour and has a metal value of its own, while plated costs considerably less.

925 means 92.5 percent of the metal is pure silver. It's the quality known as sterling silver, and it's the standard for fine silver jewelry.

It depends on how often you wear the piece and where on the body. Earrings and pendants last longest, since they get little friction. Rings and bracelets wear faster, rubbing against hands and clothing. With normal wear and a little care, the surface lasts for years.

It depends what you want. If you want the look of gold at a lower price, or several pieces to vary between, plated is a good choice. If you're after something to last a lifetime and hold its value, solid 18k gold is the right call.

Yes, a gold-plated piece can be replated by a jeweller once the surface starts to dull.

Better not to. Sweat, soap, perfume and chlorinated water wear the gold layer faster than anything else. Take pieces off before exercising, showering or swimming and they'll last considerably longer.

Put jewelry on last when getting ready, after perfume and moisturiser, and take it off first when you get home. Wipe it with a soft cloth after wearing and store it dry, ideally in its own pouch or box.

Just a soft, dry cloth. Don't use silver polish or cleaning products, as they can wear the gold layer away.