How Long Does Gold-filled Jewellery Last?
Many prefer gold filled jewelry. It’s more affordable than solid gold and it adds a beautiful long lasting finish. If you're thinking of buying gold-filled jewelry, you might wonder: How long does gold filled jewelry last? In this post, let’s discuss it in detail and see why it’s a good choice for jewelry lovers.
What is Gold Filled Jewellery?
Gold-filled jewellery pieces contain much thicker gold layers than their gold-plated counterparts which are mostly plated over a very thin coat of gold. Plating is not as durable as gold filled because it is only plating over some base metal and must contain at least 5% real gold by weight to remain durable. This thick layer of gold can then become part of the base metal and prove far more sustainable.
This jewellery may seem disingenuous at first since its term does not refer to solid gold pieces. Nonetheless, these offer high-quality yet budget-friendly alternatives for those who like the look of solid gold without its higher costs.
Read: Which gold is best for jewellery in NZ?
Factors That Effect The Lifespan Of Gold-Filled Jewelry
There are 4 key factors that affect the longevity of gold-filled jewellery. Let.s explain them in detail below:
1. Frequency of Wear
The more you wear your jewellery, the quicker the damage will happen. Over time it may wear down its gold layer from constant exposure to elements, oils from skin cells and friction from clothing. Also, rings and bracelets in regular contact with surfaces may wear more than earrings and necklaces.
Daily wear on gold-filled jewellery is better than its gold-plated version.
2. Proper Care
Its life can be extended by regular cleaning, and especially avoidance of exposure to harsh chemicals. For example, avoid wearing gold-filled pieces in chlorinated pools, cleaning products, lotions and perfumes. These substances will also speed up the wearing process and make the gold dull.
3. Storage
How you store your jewellery is also key. Storing gold-filled jewellery in a soft pouch or box when not being worn will protect it from scratches and dust accumulation, while multiple pieces should not be placed together as this could result in them colliding and potentially causing damage to each other.
4. Environment
Gold-filled jewellery can be sensitive to certain environmental elements. High humidity levels may cause the base metal to tarnish if sealed improperly. Similarly, direct sunlight may fade its hue over time. To maximize its lifespan, try not exposing your piece for extended periods to extreme temperatures or humidity conditions.
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The Signs That Gold-Filled Jewelry Is Wearing Out
Fading or discolouration: Over time, gold plating may fade in areas that come into constant contact with your skin, while you might also witness some light discolouration if some base metal begins to show through.
Scratches and Dents: Pieces made from gold filled are likely to have minor scratches and dents over time, but these don't affect its integrity right away, rather they wear away at it some and dull its brilliance over time.
Tarnishing of Base Metal: If your jewellery starts to turn green or black from wear and tear, this is a sign that the base metal is showing. This flaw is less common with gold-filled jewellery pieces than its counterpart, however, heavy wear could still occur.
How to Prolong the Life of Gold-Filled Jewelry
Get into the habit of regular cleaning
Polish It Regularly Polishing
Remove It When Needed
Proper Storage
Gold-filled jewellery is an amazing alternative to solid or gold-plated pieces in terms of both durability and appearance - without incurring an exorbitant cost tag! Proper care ensures it can outlive other forms of precious metal jewellery in your jewellery collection for many years, making gold-filled an invaluable investment piece!
Does gold jewellery have resale value?Find out how the value of gold jewellery fluctuates and what factors impact its resale potential here!
