How to Care for Gold-Plated Indian Jewelry — 10 Expert Tips
You've just shelled out $85 for an exquisite pair of Polki Bangles. Maybe it's the Kundan necklace set that you wore to an event for your sister's birthday in Houston. Every jewelry enthusiast always asks: how do I ensure that this remains as gorgeous six months later as it is now?
Antique and gold-plated Indian jewelry needs a bit more maintenance than gold that is solid but not too significantly. Follow these simple guidelines and your jewelry will remain beautiful for a long time and not just a few months.
Every piece of Mataari jewelry is plated by the 22k gold-plated antique look as well as anti-tarnish coating that means it's made to last. These guidelines will help maintain the finish and keep your piece looking as new.
Why Gold-Plated Jewelry Needs Special Care
Solid gold is almost indestructible. Jewelry with gold plating -- base metallic (usually the alloy or brass) covered with a thin layer of real gold is distinct. The plating may wear away as time passes if it is exposed to harmful substances such as chemicals, moisture friction, heat, and moisture are the four major opponents.
Antique-finish jewelry is adorned with an oxide layer which gives it that rich dark, rich patina. Chemicals or harsh cleaning can remove the finish, leaving the jewelry appearing dull and flat.
The good news is that, by following a few simple rules, antique and gold-plated jewelry last for many years, and a lot of our customers from New Jersey, California, and Texas have worn their Mataari pieces on a regular basis for 2more years, with no visible wear.
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What is it that makes Mataari items last? Our jewelry is tarnish-resistant and has an anti-oxidant coating that is applied over that 22k gold plating. This gives an extra layer of protection over conventional gold-plated jewelry however, the guidelines below work and will prolong the lifespan of your jewelry considerably. |
10 Tips to Care for Your Gold-Plated & Antique Indian Jewelry
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01 |
Always wear jewelry the very last Apply your perfume, lotion hairspray, makeup, and perfume prior to putting your jewellery on -- not afterwards. Chemicals found in cosmetics are among the most effective methods to dull the gold plating. Allow everything to dry completely, and then put on your jewellery. |
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Beware of the water Take off all jewelry prior to showering or swimming, before doing dishes or even working out. Even tap water that is clean could increase the rate of tarnishing. Saltwater and chlorinated water are particularly damaging as they may strip plating on one wear. |
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03 |
Wipe off after every wear Before you store, lightly remove your jewelry using the softest dry, lint-free, dry cloth -A microfiber cloth is the best. It removes the sweat, oils from the skin and any other residue left over from the day. A quick wipe after every wear prolongs the longevity of your plating. |
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The pieces can be stored separately Don't put all your jewelry in the same bag or drawer in a pouch. The pieces that scratch against one another result in micro-abrasions which wear away the plating. Keep each piece in its own pouch, or in the Mataari box in its original Mataari box. Zip-lock bags can also be used for a pinch. |
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Keep it in a dry, cool location -- not in the bathroom. The bathroom is not the best space to store your jewelry. Showers' steam can increase humidity and speeds up tarnishing. Keep your jewelry in the bedroom, in a drawer or a jewelry box with a liner or your original box. A dry, cool environment is the ideal place to store your jewelry. |
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Beware of direct sun Excessive exposure to heat and UV light can cause stones to fade and dull the gold-colored finish. Do not leave your jewellery on the windowsill as well as in your vehicle particularly in the summer. Texas and California temperatures in a parked car can cause a lot of harm to delicate jewelry. |
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Clean gentle with no harsh chemicals If the piece requires something more than just a simple clean then use a soft, clean cloth lightly dampened in pure water. There is no soap, alcohol or jewelry cleaners, except for those specifically designed for gold-plated items. For jewelry with an antique finish, avoid rub too hard- you'll cause the intentional oxidization which creates the antique, rich appearance. |
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08 |
Be careful with stones CZ gemstones, Moissanite, and natural semi-precious stones could break in the event of dropping or bent rough. When you put on or take off jewelry, you should hold it by the chain and not by the necklace. For bangles, remove them from the hinge, but do not force them onto your wrist. |
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09 |
Remove it prior to going to bed When you wear jewelry at night, it causes friction with the pillowcases throughout the night, which slowly wears down the plating particularly on bangles and rings. This also increases the chance of chains getting caught or clasps breaking. It is a good idea to take off your jewelry prior to going to bed. |
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10 |
Rotate your pieces If you are a fan of wearing the same item every day, you should give it some time every couple of days. Wearing it constantly -- particularly in hot or humid conditions can accelerate wear and tarnishing. By rotating between pieces, you give each piece time to air out and extend the longevity of the entire set. |
Quick Reference: Do's and Don'ts
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This is what you should do. |
Do not use this |
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Cleanse after each wear |
Don't forget to wear jewelry when you shower. |
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Keep pieces in a separate place |
Keep all pieces together |
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Make sure you put the necklace on the very last |
Spray perfume on jewelry |
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Be sure to remove yourself prior to swimming |
Wear swimwear or beach wear |
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Make sure to keep cool and dry area |
Place the storage in the bathroom. |
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Take care to handle stones with care. |
Jewelry that is bent or dropped can be bent |
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Make sure to take it off prior to going to bed |
You can sleep with rings or bangles and bangles on |
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Make use of microfiber cloth |
Make use of alcohol or harsh cleaners |
Care Tips by Jewelry Type
Kundan & Polki Jewelry
Kundan along with Polki pieces are made of stones that are set in the base of lac (wax) base, which means that they're prone to the heat. Beware of wearing them under direct sunlight for extended periods of time and do not make use of water to clean them. Use a gentle wipe with a dry, clean cloth only.
Explore through our Kundan assortment as well as our Polki Collection All pieces are accompanied by care instructions.
Antique & Oxidized Jewelry
The dark oxidized finish of antique jewelry is a deliberate choiceIt's what gives jewelry the aged, royal appearance. Do not try to clean the finish off. Make sure to use a dry, clean cloth and avoid any roughness. If the finish is damaged, repair will be difficult.
Explore the entire Collection of Antique Jewellery which includes Jhumka earrings necklace sets, necklace sets and Bangles.
CZ & Moissanite Pieces
CZ as well as Moissanite stones are extremely durable, however they will lose their sparkle when exposed to the soap or other lotions. Clean the stones with the help of a wet cloth (plain waters only) then dry immediately. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners because they can cause stone settings to become loose.
Explore our selection of diamond jewelry and Silver 925 jewellery among our most durable daily collections.
Bangles & Bracelets
Bangles endure the most use and tear. Always take them off the hinge and never put them on your fingers. For bangles with hinges, you should make sure to check the clasp frequently to ensure it's secured. Bangles should be stored flat but not stacked in drawers.
Explore the entire Bangles selection that is offered for purchase in Polki, Antique, Kundan and Zircon styles.
The Right Way to Store Indian Jewelry
Storage is the most common area where people get it wrong. practical tips you can apply in everyday life. From boosting confidence's the perfect arrangement:
- Ziplock bags per piece to prevent scratching
- A jewel box made of fabric with separate compartments - perfect for your growing collection
- Silica gel packs inside the box -absorb moisture and reduces tarnishing.
- In the distance from direct sunlight, windows and air cooling vents
- It's the original Mataari packaging -- created specifically for secure storage of every piece
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Travelling using Indian jewelry? Each piece should be placed in a small zip-lock box inside a cushioned jewellery roll, or in a case. Don't throw loose jewelry in the suitcase. If you travel by plane make sure you keep jewellery in the carry-on bag temperatures of checked baggage and handling could damage precious stones and jewelry. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I wash silver-plated Indian jewelry?
For light tarnish, gently rub the area with an unwashed microfiber towel. For more severe tarnish, apply a clean cloth wetted with plain water with no soap. Rub along the grain of metal Not in circles. Dry quickly and thoroughly before storage. Do not use silver polish vinegar, baking soda as well as commercial jewellery cleaners, on gold-plated items.
Do I need a machine to clean jewelry to clean Indian jewellery?
No. Ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners are not recommended for antique or gold-plated Indian jewelry. The vibration can break stone settings and the steam may harm plaque-based Kundan as well as Polki work. Use the soft cloth with plain water.
How long will jewelry made of gold-plated Indian jewels last?
If properly cared for, gold-plated jewelry will last 2-5 years of wear and tear. The anti-tarnish coating of Mataari extends the life of your jewelry. The most important factors are the frequency you use it and if you follow the maintenance tips previously mentioned, and also how it's kept.
Does Mataari offer a guarantee on its jewelry?
Yes, every Mataari product comes with a one-year guarantee which covers manufacturing defects. We also provide free 14-day returns. If you are having problems with your item contact us at info@mataari.com -- we'll respond within hours.
What should I do to take care of my silver in 925 Indian jewels?
Silver tarnish naturally, but can be restored easily. Make use of a silver polishing cloth to take off tarnish. Store it in a pouch that is anti-tarnish, and stay clear of wool and rubber fabrics (which can accelerate the tarnishing process). Take a look at Mataari's Silver925 collection to find pieces that are hypoallergenic as well as robust.
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