How to Care for and Preserve Silver or Gold Plated Jewelry
At Museum Reproductions, care is taken to faithfully reproduce original materials where possible. We use genuine semi-precious stones, natural freshwater pearls, and Austrian crystals. Most jewelry elements are composed of lead-free, nickel-free, and cadmium-free base metal plated with a nickel-free 18k gold, antique gold, or silver finish.
Plated jewelry combines the beauty of precious metals with the strength of pewter or brass. To keep your pieces looking their best, a little extra care goes a long way.
1. Avoid Moisture & Chemicals
- Keep your jewelry dry and remove it before bathing, swimming, or exercising.
- Avoid contact with lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, and cleaning products, as these can dull or damage the plating.
2. Proper Cleaning
- Gently wipe jewelry after each wear with a soft, dry cloth to remove oils and residue.
- If deeper cleaning is needed, use lukewarm water and a mild soap. Rinse quickly and pat dry with a soft cloth.
- Never use abrasive cleaners, silver dips, or polishing cloths designed for unplated metals, as they can strip away the plating.
3. Storage Tips
- Store pieces individually in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and tarnish.
- Keep jewelry away from humid environments (like bathrooms). Adding a small anti-tarnish strip helps maintain shine.
4. Wear with Care
- Put on jewelry last when getting dressed.
- Avoid stacking plated pieces directly against harder metals to minimize wear.
With proper care, your plated jewelry will retain its beauty for years, allowing you to enjoy timeless style without worry.
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