What is Gold and Platinum Plated Jewelry?
Hi #LotusLady,
While scrolling through The Lady Lotus range, you may have seen that our jewelry is "gold plated" or "platinum plated", and wondered what that actually means. We believe that you deserve to know exactly what you're buying, so today we're explaining what gold and platinum plating is, how they differ from each other, and how to get the most out of your special Lady Lotus pieces.
When you see the words "gold plated" or "platinum plated" it means that a thin layer of the corresponding metal has been applied to another metal. In the case of The Lady Lotus jewelry, this is usually sterling silver. We use sterling silver as the base for all of our pieces because it is a beautiful metal in its own right, and also because it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction than other metals such as nickel. Having a hypoallergenic and nickel-free product is important to us so that you can wear our jewelry with confidence, even if you have sensitive skin.
It's important to understand that gold plated jewelry or platinum plated jewelry is not solid gold or platinum. It is sterling silver with platinum or gold coating. If you were to scratch the surface of the gold or platinum plating, you would see the sterling silver beneath it. However, the plating is applied in a way that makes it very difficult to scratch, so your piece should retain its beautiful gold or platinum finish as long as you care for it correctly.
The process of applying the thin layer of gold or platinum to the sterling silver base is known as "electroplating". This is done by using an electric current to bond the two metals together at a molecular level. A thin layer of either gold or platinum is applied to the surface of the sterling silver. This creates a smooth and even coating that can give the jewelry an extra shine and lustre. The result is a strong and durable bond that will last for many years.
A relatively rare element, gold is a precious metal that has been used for coinage, jewelry, and other arts throughout recorded history.
- Gold plating is more affordable than platinum plating
- Gold plating has a warm golden tone
- Gold plating can last for many years if you know how to care for it correctly
Platinum is a rare, silver-white metal that is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. It is used in jewelry, coins, and other decorative items and revered for its beautiful lustrous finish.
- Platinum plating is more expensive than gold plating
- Platinum plating has a cool metallic tone
- Platinum plating is more durable than gold plating and is less likely to wear away over time if you know how to clean platinum plated jewelry and care for it correctly
How long does gold plated jewelry last? Well, that depends on how you take care of it. With the proper care, both gold plated jewelry and platinum plated jewelry can last for many years. Here are some tips on how to clean and store your jewelry so that it will retain its beautiful finish for as long as possible:
- Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners
- Do not wear your gold plated jewelry or platinum plated jewelry in the shower or while swimming
- Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place
- Be sure to put your jewelry away before applying lotion, perfumes, or other chemicals
For more gold and platinum jewelry care tips, check our jewelry care guide.
Gently clean your jewelry with the polishing cloth that came with it after each wear. If your jewelry does become tarnished over time, you can use a mild solution of soap and warm water to clean it. Be sure to rinse the jewelry well and dry it thoroughly with a soft, cloth afterwards. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasives to clean your jewelry, as this will damage the finish.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your gold plated jewelry or platinum plated jewelry will retain its beauty for many years. The Lady Lotus collections feature a variety of beautiful pieces that are perfect for any occasion and are created to evoke strong emotions within the wearer. We take great care to handcraft each piece of jewelry with the utmost precision so that it meets our high standards of exceptional quality and timeless design. Browse our collections to find the perfect piece of jewelry that brings out the best #LotusLady in you.