Let's talk about 18-carat gold plating, a must-have for that golden, luxurious look we all love to wear! Whether you're passionate about bold jewelry or simply looking to shine with elegance, understanding what gold plating is will help you choose your jewelry with confidence.
What is gold plating?
Gold plating is the process of coating a metal base with a thin layer of gold. This gives the appearance of solid gold jewelry, but at a much more affordable cost. The concept is simple: a base metal is used, usually brass or copper, which is then coated with gold using a process called electroplating. But make no mistake, even though the layer of gold is thin, it's still very resistant and gives the jewel an incredible shine.
At Tara JWLS, we use gold plating because it allows us to create dazzling, modern pieces, while retaining that chic, elegant feel that defines us. Our bold, sparkling creations take advantage of this technique to remain accessible without compromising on the golden shine you love!
The main appeal of gold plating lies in its ability to offer that luxurious look without the sometimes exorbitant price tag of solid gold. It's the perfect choice for those who like to renew their jewelry collections frequently, while staying on trend. And let's face it, who doesn't love being able to afford several fun, colorful pieces, and still get that little “wow” effect with every outfit?
The gold-plating base
The secret of good gold plating is, above all, the quality of the base used. Our brand pays particular attention to this detail, as the base to which the gold is applied directly influences the durability and resistance of the jewel. In general, brass and copper are the most commonly used metals for gold-plated jewelry, as they are robust, easy to work with and take plating well.
But why not use solid gold directly, you might ask? Well, gold is a relatively soft material, which sometimes makes it less suitable for everyday use. By using a more solid metal base, then coating it with a thin layer of gold, you get the best of both worlds: the solidity of a strong base and the sparkling beauty of gold on the surface.
The gold-plating process also allows us to play with different shades of gold, from bright yellow to softer shades like rose gold. This allows each of us to find the perfect piece of jewelry that reflects our personality while matching our favorite looks!
18k gold plating
Let's get to the heart of the matter: why choose 18-carat gold plating? When we speak of “18 carats”, we're referring to the purity of the gold used in the plating. 18k gold is composed of 75% pure gold, giving it a deep, rich and elegant golden hue, perfect for those who like a refined yet modern look. We use 18-carat gold to ensure that each piece shines brightly, while being durable and resistant to the hazards of everyday life.
18k gold plating is ideal for those looking for a piece of jewelry that keeps its shine over time. Unlike other types of plating, 18-carat gold is more resistant to wear and tear, and retains that beautiful golden color much longer.
What's more, this type of material is a fantastic option for sensitive skin, as it minimizes the risk of allergies. So not only can you shine, you can do it in comfort!
Does 18k jewelry oxidize?
The question on everyone's mind: will my 18k gold-plated jewelry oxidize? The good news is that gold itself does not oxidize! It's a noble metal, which means it doesn't react with air or humidity like other metals. So you don't have to worry about your 18-carat gold-plated jewelry turning green or dull through oxidation.
However, the base of the jewel, which is not solid gold, can potentially pose a problem if exposed to aggressive elements. But don't panic! If you take good care of your 18k gold-plated jewelry, it will retain its lustre for a long time to come. That's why it's essential to follow the care instructions to prevent the gold layer from wearing away and exposing the base of the jewel.
Knowing that gold doesn't oxidize is reassuring, but it's just as important to understand that elements such as chemicals (perfumes, lotions, etc.) can accelerate the wear of gold plating. We always recommend treating your jewelry with love and care. After all, your jewels are little gems that deserve to be pampered so that they shine by your side for a long time to come! Don't hesitate to read our article on how to clean your gold-plated jewelry!
How to care for 18k gold-plated jewelry?
Now that you know all about the difference between gold-plated and gold-plated jewelry, and are reassured about the absence of oxidation, it's time to talk about caring for your precious 18k gold-plated treasures. Because even if gold plating is durable, it still requires a little attention to stay sparkling.
Tip n°1: Avoid water and humidity
Although gold does not react to water, the metal base beneath the plating could oxidize if exposed to too much moisture. This means it's best to remove your jewelry before taking a shower, going to the pool or even before a sports session where perspiration could affect the durability of the plating. And when you're relaxing by the sea, it's best to keep your jewelry away from salty waves!
Tip n°2: Keep them away from chemicals
Perfume, lotions and even certain make-up products can dull the shine of your gold-plated jewelry. Always put your jewelry on last, after applying make-up and perfume. This will limit direct contact with these products and prolong the life of your jewelry. A little extra tip: wipe your jewelry with a soft cloth after each use, just to remove any residue that may have settled on it.
Tip 3: Store them properly
We all love having a beautiful jewelry box in which to store our treasures, but it's also important to protect them properly. Ideally, store your gold-plated jewels in individual pouches or boxes lined with soft fabric to prevent them from getting scratched by rubbing against each other. This simple gesture can really make a difference in the long run!
Tip n°4: Clean them gently.
To keep your jewels sparkling,regular, gentle cleaning is essential. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to wipe them down after wearing. If you want to give them a little extra care, a quick bath in warm soapy water followed by a gentle drying with a clean, dry cloth will restore their shine.
By following these few tips, your 18-carat gold-plated Tara JWLS jewelry will stay sparkling, ready to accompany you on all your adventures with that unique, sparkling style that so characterizes you. So pamper them, and they'll continue to shine as brightly as you do!
What's the difference between 18k gold-plated and gold-plated jewelry?
Ah, the great debate! Gold-plated or gold-plated jewelry, what's the difference? At first glance, these two terms may seem similar, but in reality, there are major differences. We tell you all about it!
Gold-plated jewelry is often covered with a much thinner layer of gold than gold-plated jewelry. The term “gilded” simply refers to jewelry that has been colored to resemble gold, but without necessarily using a true quality plating technique. Often, such jewelry is coated with a thin film of gold using a technique called vapor gilding, where the gold is deposited on the surface of the metal in vapor form. This layer of gold is so thin that it can wear off very quickly, especially if you wear the jewelry frequently.
Conversely, 18k gold plating, as we like to call it at Tara JWLS, means that a much thicker layer of 18-carat gold has been deposited on a metal base. You get the luxurious look of real gold, without the cost of solid gold jewelry. And this superior quality makes all the difference when you wear your jewelry every day.
In short, 18k gold plating is your best ally if you're looking for jewelry that stands the test of time and trends, while gold jewelry may be more suited to temporary fashion accessories.
At Tara JWLS, we've clearly made our choice: 18k gold-plated pieces, because we like our jewelry to be as durable as our bold, timeless style!
Adopt 18-carat gold-plated jewelry by Tara JWLS
Ready to adopt a bold, elegant style that perfectly reflects your personality? At Tara JWLS, every piece of jewelry is designed to enhance your look and bring that touch of pep and originality to every outfit. Whether you're looking for a fun, colorful piece or a more refined accessory, our 18-carat gold-plated collections will seduce you. So what are you waiting for to discover our unique creations?
