How to Tell If Your Gold Plated Earrings Are Good Quality | Expert Guide

Understanding Gold Plating: What It Is and Why It Matters

Gold plating is a process where a thin layer of gold is bonded to a base metal, typically brass, copper, or sterling silver. This technique gives jewellery the luxurious look of solid gold at a more wallet-friendly price point.

The quality of gold plated jewellery depends largely on three key factors: the thickness of the gold layer, the purity of the gold used, and the quality of the base metal underneath. These elements determine not just how your jewellery looks initially, but how well it will stand the test of time.

Standard gold plating typically measures between 0.5 to 1 micron in thickness (a micron is one-thousandth of a millimetre). Higher-quality pieces, often described as "heavy gold plated" or "thick gold plated," feature layers measuring 2.5 microns or more. This thicker coating significantly improves durability and longevity.

The gold used in plating is measured in karats, with 24K being pure gold. Most gold plated jewellery uses 14K to 18K gold, offering an ideal balance between rich colour and durability. At Ella & Eve, we carefully select the optimal gold purity for each piece to ensure both beauty and longevity.

7 Signs of High-Quality Gold Plated Earrings

When examining your gold plated earrings or other jewellery pieces, look for these telltale indicators of quality craftsmanship:

1. Even, Rich Colour: High-quality gold plating has a consistent, warm tone without patchy areas or colour variations. The gold should have a rich, lustrous appearance rather than a brassy or dull finish.
2. Proper Markings: Quality pieces often include stamps or markings indicating "GP" (gold plated), "GEP" (gold electroplated), or specific information about the gold thickness. These markings reflect transparency from the manufacturer.
3. Weight and Feel: While gold plated jewellery is lighter than solid gold, quality pieces still have a substantial feel. They shouldn't feel flimsy or excessively light for their size.
4. Smooth Finish: Run your finger along the surface – quality gold plated jewellery should feel smooth without rough edges, bumps, or uneven textures that might indicate poor craftsmanship.
5. Secure Clasps and Findings: Check that earring backs, clasps, and other functional elements work smoothly and securely. Quality pieces feature well-made mechanisms that won't easily break or come loose.
6. Tarnish Resistance: Superior gold plated jewellery includes a protective layer that helps prevent tarnishing and discolouration, allowing the piece to maintain its beauty longer.
7. Quality Base Metal: The best gold plated jewellery uses high-quality base metals like sterling silver or nickel-free brass, which provide durability and are less likely to cause skin reactions.

At Ella & Eve, we ensure all our gold plated pieces meet these quality standards, giving you confidence in every purchase from our jewellery collection.

Smart Shopping: What to Look for When Buying Gold Plated Jewellery

Making an informed purchase decision helps ensure you're getting quality gold plated jewellery that will bring joy for years to come. Here's what to consider before buying:

Research the Retailer

Reputable jewellers like Ella & Eve are transparent about their materials and craftsmanship. Look for clear product descriptions that specify the plating thickness, gold purity (karat), and base metal used. Trustworthy retailers will also offer care instructions and reasonable warranties.

Understand Pricing Signals

While gold plated jewellery is more affordable than solid gold, extremely low prices often indicate very thin plating or poor-quality base metals. Quality gold plated pieces represent a balance – more affordable than solid gold but priced to reflect proper craftsmanship and materials.

Check for Hypoallergenic Options

If you have sensitive skin, look for gold plated jewellery with nickel-free base metals. Quality retailers will specify whether their pieces are hypoallergenic, making it easier to find comfortable options for everyday wear.

Examine the Finish

Even in online photos, quality gold plated jewellery should display an even, rich gold tone. Be wary of pieces that look overly yellow or have an unnatural shine, as these may indicate poor-quality plating that won't last.

Consider the Design Complexity

Intricate designs with detailed craftsmanship often indicate higher quality. Well-executed complex patterns suggest the manufacturer has invested in proper production techniques rather than cutting corners.

When browsing our collection of gold earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and anklets, you'll find detailed information about each piece, helping you make confident choices.

Caring for Your Gold Plated Jewellery: Essential Maintenance Tips

Even the highest quality gold plated jewellery requires proper care to maintain its beauty. Follow these simple guidelines to keep your pieces looking their best:

Daily Wear Practices

• Apply Before, Remove After: Put on your gold plated jewellery after applying perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays, and remove it before showering, swimming, or exercising.
• Avoid Chemical Contact: Keep your gold plated pieces away from household cleaners, chlorine, and other harsh chemicals that can damage the plating.
• Mindful Activities: Remove your jewellery before activities that might cause scratches or excessive friction, such as gardening, sports, or heavy housework.
• Gentle Handling: Put on and remove earrings and other pieces carefully to avoid bending or scratching the plated surface.

Cleaning Techniques

For regular maintenance of your gold plated jewellery:

1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in lukewarm water.
2. Gently wipe the jewellery with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened in the solution.
3. Rinse carefully with clean water, avoiding soaking the piece.
4. Pat completely dry with a soft cloth.
5. Allow to air dry fully before storing.

Important: Never use jewellery polishing cloths designed for solid gold on gold plated pieces, as they can remove the plating. Also avoid ultrasonic cleaners, which are too harsh for plated jewellery.

Making Your Gold Plated Jewellery Last Longer

With proper care, quality gold plated jewellery can maintain its beauty for years. Here are expert tips to extend the life of your favourite pieces:

Smart Storage Solutions

How you store your gold plated jewellery significantly impacts its longevity:

• Individual Storage: Store pieces separately to prevent scratches and tangling. The complimentary gift boxes provided with every Ella & Eve purchase are perfect for this purpose.
• Airtight Options: Consider small ziplock bags or anti-tarnish pouches to protect pieces from air exposure, which can accelerate tarnishing.
• Dry Environment: Keep jewellery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and bathroom humidity.
• Silica Gel Packets: Adding these moisture-absorbing packets to your jewellery box helps create a drier environment that protects the plating.

Rotation and Rest

While it's tempting to wear your favourite gold plated earrings every day, giving pieces regular breaks helps preserve the plating. Consider building a collection of complementary pieces that you can rotate throughout the week. Our current offer makes this easy: Buy 1, get 50% OFF a second piece!

Reapplication Options

If you notice the gold plating beginning to wear on a cherished piece, don't despair. Many jewellers offer replating services that can restore your jewellery to its original beauty. This option is particularly worthwhile for high-quality pieces with solid craftsmanship and sentimental value.

The Ella & Eve Difference: Quality You Can Trust

At Ella & Eve, we understand that jewellery is more than an accessory—it's an expression of personal style and often holds special meaning. That's why we're committed to providing gold plated jewellery that meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

Our gold plated collection features:

• Premium base metals selected for durability and comfort
• Thicker-than-standard gold plating for extended wear
• Meticulous attention to detail in every design
• Rigorous quality control before any piece reaches you
• Hypoallergenic options for sensitive skin

Every Ella & Eve purchase comes with our complimentary gift box and branded gift bag—perfect for presenting a special gift or storing your treasures properly to maintain their beauty.

Ready to add a touch of gold to your collection? Explore our exquisite range of gold earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. Plus, take advantage of our current promotion: Buy 1 piece of jewellery, get a second piece 50% OFF!

Frequently Asked Questions About Gold Plated Jewellery

How long does gold plating typically last?

With proper care, quality gold plated jewellery can last from several months to several years. The lifespan depends on the thickness of the plating, how often you wear the piece, your body chemistry, and how well you maintain it. Thicker plating (2.5+ microns) significantly extends longevity.

Can I shower or swim with gold plated jewellery?

It's best to remove gold plated jewellery before showering, swimming, or activities that cause perspiration. Water, especially chlorinated or salt water, can accelerate the wearing of the gold layer. Soaps and shampoos can also contain chemicals that may damage the plating.

Is gold plated jewellery hypoallergenic?

Gold itself is hypoallergenic, but reactions can occur if the base metal contains nickel and the plating wears down. If you have sensitive skin, look for gold plated jewellery specifically labeled as nickel-free or hypoallergenic, like many pieces in our collection.

What's the difference between gold plated, gold filled, and gold vermeil?

Gold plated jewellery has a thin layer of gold bonded to a base metal. Gold filled items have a much thicker layer of gold (at least 1/20 of the total weight) mechanically bonded to the base. Gold vermeil specifically uses sterling silver as the base metal with a thicker gold plating (at least 2.5 microns) and is typically higher quality than standard gold plating.

Discover Ella & Eve's Gold Plated Collection

Now that you know how to identify quality gold plated jewellery, it's time to explore our carefully crafted collection. Each piece in our range is designed with attention to detail and created to the highest standards of quality.

From delicate gold earrings that frame your face beautifully to statement necklaces that elevate any outfit, our gold plated jewellery adds a touch of luxury to everyday style. Complete your look with our elegant bracelets or add a subtle hint of glamour with our anklets.

Every Ella & Eve purchase is presented in our signature gift packaging, making it perfect for treating yourself or surprising someone special. And with our current offer, there's never been a better time to enhance your jewellery collection.