Is your favourite jewellery losing its lustre?

Don’t panic, it’s a natural process! To preserve the shine of your treasures, proper care of your fine gold jewellery is essential. In this guide, we reveal our secrets for pampering your pieces using gentle, safe and 100% natural methods.

Discover how to restore a mirror-like shine to your earrings and other gems from our collections through regular and effective care of your fine gold jewellery.

Why is your fine gold-plated jewellery so delicate?

A piece of jewellery plated with 24-carat fine gold is a fine piece of craftsmanship. Unlike solid gold, it consists of a base metal (often brass) covered with a thin layer of pure gold.

Over time, humidity, perspiration and cosmetics can cause this precious coating to tarnish. Understanding this fragility is the first step towards successfully caring for your fine gold jewellery.

Why does the colour change?

Even with high-quality gilding, fine gold is a ‘living’ material that reacts to its environment. Without proper care, oxidation will set in on your fine gold-plated jewellery. 

But rest assured: with the right care, your Aurélie Joliff jewellery will remain as radiant as on the first day.

Here are 3 gentle methods for caring for fine gold jewellery

1. The impregnated chamois cloth

💡 Aurélie’s favourite tip

This is the ideal solution as it’s a 3-in-1 product. It cleans, protects and polishes your jewellery. Simply rub the jewellery gently with the cloth and the results are immediate.

2. The non-impregnated cloth

If you don’t have an impregnated cloth, a non-impregnated one such as a glasses cleaning cloth is very practical as it is soft and non-abrasive on jewellery.

3. The mild soap method: your everyday ally

This is the safest method for regular care of your fine gold jewellery, with no risk of scratching.

To do this, you will need:

1. lukewarm water,
2. pH-neutral soap,
3. an extra-soft toothbrush,
4. a microfibre cloth.

Steps to follow:

1. Mix the soap into the lukewarm water.
2. Soak the jewellery for a maximum of 1 minute.
3. Gently scrub the crevices with the brush.
4. Rinse with clean water and dry immediately.

💡 Aurélie’s tip: never leave your jewellery to soak for too long; prolonged exposure to moisture is the enemy of gold plating.

 

Please note : we’re also listing the critical mistakes to avoid

To ensure you look after your fine gold-plated jewellery properly, certain products are strictly off-limits:

• Bleach and household cleaning products: these will strip the gold plating instantly.
• Toothpaste: it’s too abrasive and will cause micro-scratches.
• Air-drying: limescale marks are disastrous for the shine.
• The sea and swimming pools: salt and chlorine are the enemies of fine gold-plated jewellery.

 

Aurélie’s little secret for keeping your gold jewellery looking brand new :

Caring for your fine gold jewellery isn’t just about cleaning: storage is key.

1. A place for everything: store your jewellery in its original pouch or a compartmentalised box to prevent scratches between pieces.
2. Keep it dry: avoid the bathroom! Choose a dry, dark place instead.
3. The “Final Touch” ritual: put on your jewellery after applying your perfume and make-up to avoid chemical splashes.

Your questions about caring for fine gold jewellery

How often should I clean my jewellery?

Cleaning with mild soap once a month is more than enough. For daily wear, simply wiping it with a soft cloth every evening is the best way to care for it.

Can I use a special jewellery cleaner available in shops?

Yes, but make sure it is specifically formulated for ‘fine gold plating’ and not for solid gold or silver, as these products are often too harsh.

A little extra: enhance your everyday life with Aurélie Joliff

Ready to treat yourself to a new piece? 

Now that you’ve mastered jewellery care, discover our creations:

• ✨ Discover our wide range of earrings
• 🌙 Explore our fine gold necklaces
• 💍 Discover our timeless rings

Don’t miss this either!

• Our guide to Aurélie Joliff’s natural gemstones and their meanings
• Why I chose to produce my jewellery in France