If you are thinking about buying gold plated sterling silver jewellery, one question comes up more than any other: how long will the gold last? It is a fair question, and you deserve an honest answer rather than a sales pitch. Here is what plating really is, what wears it down, and how to look after your pieces so they stay beautiful for as long as possible.

What is gold plated sterling silver?

Sterling silver is a mix of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals for strength, which is why it is stamped 925. Gold plating means a very thin layer of real gold, in our case 18K, is bonded onto the surface of the silver. You get the warm look of gold at a fraction of the price of solid gold, with a strong sterling silver base underneath.

At ANVIRA, every gold piece is 18K gold plated 925 sterling silver, finished with a clear protective coating to help the shine last longer.

So, how long does it last?

Honestly, it depends on how you wear it. No plated jewellery lasts forever, because the gold layer is thin and slowly wears with friction, water and chemicals. A necklace that is worn gently and looked after can stay bright for a long time. A ring worn every day while washing up will show wear sooner, because rings rub against everything.

As a rough guide, pieces that sit still and are not exposed to water, like necklaces and earrings, tend to keep their finish longest. Rings and bracelets move more and touch more surfaces, so they need a little more care.

What wears plating down fastest

• Water. Showers, swimming, the sea and washing up.
• Perfume, hairspray and body lotion. Spray your perfume first, then put your jewellery on.
• Cleaning products and hand sanitiser. These are harsh on any plated finish.
• Sweat and the gym. Take pieces off before a workout.
• Sleeping in your jewellery. It rubs against bedding and skin for hours.
• Storing it loose. Pieces scratch each other in a pile.

A simple care routine

1. Put jewellery on last and take it off first.
2. Remove it before showers, swimming and exercise.
3. After wearing, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth.
4. Store each piece in its own pouch, somewhere dry.
5. Never use harsh cleaners or rough cloths.

Every ANVIRA order comes with a pouch and a polishing cloth, so you have everything you need from day one.

Gold plated or solid gold?

Solid gold lasts the longest, but it costs many times more. For everyday style that you can wear, enjoy and replace with new pieces as your taste changes, gold plated sterling silver is a sensible choice. If you want a lifetime heirloom, solid gold is the better investment, and it is worth being clear about that difference when you shop.

Why the silver underneath matters

Not all plated jewellery is the same. Many cheaper pieces are plated over base metals, which can tarnish quickly and may irritate sensitive skin. A sterling silver base is a better foundation, and the 925 mark tells you what you are buying. Skin chemistry varies from person to person, so we cannot promise the same result for everyone, but our pieces are also nickel, lead and cadmium free.

What ANVIRA does to help

• 925 sterling silver base, stamped ANVIRA 925S
• 18K gold plating with a protective coating
• Pouch and polishing cloth with every order
• A 12 month warranty on every piece
• Free UK returns within 30 days

If something does not look right, just email info@anvira.uk and we will help.

Pieces to start with

Gold Solitaire Pendant Necklace: a single sparkling stone on a fine chain, a classic that goes with everything.

Gold Open Heart Necklace: simple, delicate and easy to wear every day.

Gold Prong-Set Solitaire Necklace: a timeless four prong setting that works from work to evening.

Necklaces are a lovely place to begin, because they stay still and keep their finish well. Browse the full necklace collection, or shop everything. New customers get 10% off their first order, and if you choose any two pieces you can save 25% with code DISCOUNT25.