How to Keep Your Jewellery Tarnish-Free: Why Gold-Plated Might Be Your Secret Weapon
If you've ever opened your jewellery box only to find your favourite necklace looking a bit... sad, you're definitely not alone. I remember pulling out a pair of dainty hoops I hadn’t worn in a while—ones I used to wear all the time—only to find they’d completely lost their shine. That dull, slightly green tinge? Heartbreaking. They’d gone from "everyday staple" to "bottom-of-the-drawer regret" in just a few months.
That’s when I realised: not all jewellery is made to last.
Solid gold is gorgeous and resistant to tarnishing—but let’s be honest, it’s also very pricey. Gold-plated jewellery, though? It’s like getting all the glow of gold without the guilt of a four-figure price tag. And if you take care of it properly, it can stay looking fresh for years. So, whether you’re a fellow jewellery lover or someone who just wants their accessories to go the distance, here’s how I’ve learned to keep my collection looking like new—without going broke.
Why Does Jewellery Tarnish in the First Place?
Tarnishing happens when your jewellery comes into contact with moisture, chemicals, or even just the oils from your skin. Over time, these elements react with the metals and cause discolouration or dullness. It doesn’t mean your jewellery is bad—it just needs a little TLC. With a bit of know-how, you can avoid those sad, faded pieces and keep your favourites gleaming.
Easy Ways to Keep Your Jewellery Tarnish-Free
1. Keep it dry (like, religiously)
Water is lovely—just not for your jewellery. Swimming, showering, sweaty workouts... they’re all no-go zones. If your jewellery gets wet (because life happens), dry it straight away with a soft cloth. Waterproof jewellery is your best friend here—it’s designed to handle a bit of splashing without turning dull.
2. Store it like it’s special
Ever dumped all your earrings into one messy dish? Yeah, same. But storing your jewellery properly really does make a difference. Keep each piece in a cool, dry place—ideally in a jewellery box with an anti-tarnish lining or even a soft pouch. No more tangles, scratches, or moisture ruining your look.
3. Keep it away from beauty products
Lotions, perfumes, hairspray… all those things we use daily are sneaky culprits behind tarnish. Try to apply your products before you accessorise, and take everything off before cleaning or doing dishes. A little habit change can really extend the life of your pieces.
4. Give it a gentle clean
After a full day of wear, your jewellery picks up sweat, oil and dirt—yep, even if it still looks shiny. I like to give mine a quick wipe with a lint-free cloth at the end of the day. For a deeper clean, mix mild soap with warm water and gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Pat dry and you’re good to go. Waterproof jewellery makes this process way easier, as it’s designed to handle a bit of water without fuss.
5. Show it some love
Even the most low-maintenance pieces need a little upkeep. If you’ve invested in high-quality gold-plated jewellery, a few simple habits will keep it sparkling for years. Think of it like skincare for your accessories—little steps, big results.
Final Thoughts
We all want that perfect mix of style and practicality—pieces that look beautiful but don’t need constant replacing. That’s why I’m such a fan of well-made gold-plated jewellery. It’s the affordable way to keep your accessories looking luxe without worrying about tarnishing every time you wear them.
At Orla Lily, we design our waterproof jewellery with busy, stylish women in mind—pieces that are built to last and easy to care for. No fuss, no fading, no tarnish—just everyday elegance that keeps up with your life.
Ready to give your jewellery box a glow-up?
Take a peek at our bestsellers and find your new everyday faves today. 💫