Care • Sustainability
Your easy, honest guide to daily wear, simple care, and long-term beauty.
WHY 18K GOLD OVER 925 STERLING SILVER
Our pieces are handcrafted using recycled 925 sterling silver and finished with a final layer of 18k gold plating. This pairing unites strength, beauty, and responsible craftsmanship.
What 18k gold plating means
18k indicates a gold alloy that is 75 percent pure gold by weight, prized for its warm tone and fine-jewelry look. In gold plating, a thin layer of gold is bonded to a base metal through electroplating. For 18k gold-plated jewelry, that top layer delivers the color and luster you love. For context on gold karat, see the GIA’s explainer on yellow gold and rose gold.
Why sterling silver is the ideal base
925 sterling silver is durable, hypoallergenic for most wearers, and easily repairable. It also supports a circular mindset because it can be maintained and refreshed through professional services like re-polishing or re-plating. Using recycled silver reduces environmental impact while preserving the integrity and feel that elevate daily pieces.
HOW LONG DOES 18K GOLD PLATING LAST?
When you understand plated gold care and longevity, your jewelry stays beautiful longer and you make more sustainable choices.
Typical expectations: 6–24 months with regular wear
With mindful wear and storage, 18k gold plating over 925 sterling silver typically looks its best for about 6 to 24 months. Pieces worn occasionally and stored well can last longer before showing signs of wear. Everyday friction points such as ring bands or necklace clasps may show softening of the finish sooner than low-contact surfaces.
What affects longevity
- Friction and abrasion from stacking, rubbing against zippers or hard edges
- Sweat from workouts and heat, which can be slightly acidic
- Perfume, hairspray, lotions and sunscreen, which can interact with the finish
- Water exposure including showering, pools with chlorine, and ocean salt
- Storage conditions like humidity and contact with other jewelry
- Plating thickness measured in microns; thicker layers generally last longer, but care still matters
Context note: Gold vermeil uses a sterling silver base and a thicker gold layer by definition, while standard gold plating can vary in thickness. For clarity, we don't claim a specific process here. For labeling clarity, see the FTC Jewelry Guides.
CARE TIPS: THE DO/DON’T CHECKLIST
A clear routine keeps maintenance simple. Use the following checklist to protect 18k gold-plated sterling silver.
Do
- Wipe gently with a soft cloth after each wear to remove oils and light residue.
- Put jewelry on last and take it off first to avoid contact with skincare and sprays.
- Store pieces separately in soft pouches or compartments to prevent scratches.
- Keep storage areas dry and cool; use silica gel or anti-tarnish tabs to reduce humidity.
- Follow our guidance in Jewellery Care for ongoing maintenance.
Don’t
- Remove jewelry before showering, swimming, or workouts to prevent wear from water and sweat.
- Apply perfume or hairspray first, let it dry, then put on jewelry.
- Keep jewelry away from household chemicals, cleaning agents, and hand sanitizer.
- Place jewelry in a pouch or compartment instead of a bag or drawer where it can rub against other items.
- Skip abrasive cloths, polishing compounds, and ultrasonic cleaners.
SIMPLE CLEANING ROUTINE
Your cleaning routine should be minimalist and gentle. The goal is to refresh the surface without wearing away the gold layer.
3 steps: wipe, mild soap sparingly, dry thoroughly; avoid soaking
- After each wear, wipe the piece with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- If needed, mix a drop of mild soap with lukewarm water. Slightly dampen the cloth and gently wipe. Avoid soaking the jewelry.
- Rinse the cloth with clean water, wipe again to remove soap residue, then dry completely. Store in a separate pouch.
STORAGE BEST PRACTICES
Thoughtful storage prevents unnecessary abrasion and moisture exposure.
Separate pouches, soft compartments, anti-humidity measures
- Keep each piece in its own soft pouch or a compartmented jewelry box to avoid contact.
- Add silica gel or anti-tarnish strips in your jewelry drawer to control humidity.
- Store away from windows, bathrooms, and heat sources.
- For travel, use a jewelry roll with individual slots to minimize friction.
WHEN TO TAKE IT OFF
Removing jewelry at the right moments extends the life of the gold layer.
Gym, beach, chores, sleep; how to spot when a piece needs extra care
- Take off before gym sessions, beach days, swimming, showering, cleaning, or sleeping.
- Watch for early signs of wear such as dullness on high-friction areas or edges. If you notice changes, pause wear and follow the cleaning routine. If needed, ask us about re-polishing or re-plating through Contact Us.
WARRANTY, REPAIR & RE-PLATING SUPPORT
We stand by thoughtful, circular care. If your piece needs attention, we are here to help evaluate the best path.
What we can evaluate; how to contact us; realistic expectations and turnaround
- Returns and exchanges: We offer a 14-day return window. For hygiene reasons, worn earrings are excluded. Please review Shipping & Returns for full details.
- Repairs and re-plating: If your 18k gold-plated piece shows wear, reach out via Contact Us with your order number, clear photos, and a brief note on wear patterns. We will assess options, including professional re-plating or repair, and share expected timelines and costs if applicable.
- Expectations: Re-plating restores color and luster. Ongoing care and proper storage remain essential because plating naturally experiences wear over time.
- Sustainability focus: We encourage repair over replace whenever practical to extend the life of your jewelry.
FEATURED PIECE: QUADRATO EARRINGS GOLD
Architectural lines meet vibrant stone in a design that balances strength and elegance.
Materials and design inspiration + link CTA to product page
Quadrato Earrings Gold are crafted in 925 sterling silver with a final layer of 18k gold plating and a striking malachite accent. The geometry draws on architectural forms and letterforms, inviting everyday wear with statement impact. Pair them with a crisp shirt or minimalist dress. Explore Quadrato Earrings Gold to see materials, styling notes, and availability.
FAQs
How long does 18k gold plating last?
With mindful wear, 18k gold plating over 925 sterling silver typically lasts about 6 to 24 months, and longer with careful storage.
Can you shower with gold-plated jewelry?
For best results, remove before showering and swimming. Water, soaps, chlorine, and salt accelerate wear.
Can you wear it every day?
Yes, but remove for sweat, water, and chores to minimize friction and chemicals, and store separately each night.
How do you clean 925 sterling silver gold-plated jewelry?
Use a soft cloth after each wear. If needed, a drop of mild soap on a damp cloth, then wipe and dry completely. Never soak.
Will sweat damage gold-plated jewelry?
Sweat can increase abrasion and chemical interaction. Remove before workouts and wipe pieces after warm days.
Can gold-plated jewelry be re-plated?
Yes. Contact Us to inquire about professional re-plating and turnaround times.
REFERENCES
- FTC Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries Guides: ftc.gov
- GIA: Yellow Gold vs. Rose Gold (karat context): gia.edu
- Jewelers of America: Jewelry Care: jewelers.org
CONCLUSION
Enjoy your KIMSU piece longer with simple, consistent care. Explore Quadrato Earrings Gold, read Jewellery Care, and reach out via Contact Us if you need support with repairs or re-plating. For brand values and craftsmanship, visit Our Story and join our mailing list for care tips and new releases.