How to Keep Gold-Tone Jewellery Looking Good
The easiest way to make jewellery last longer is surprisingly simple: understand what it's made from and avoid unnecessary wear. Gold-tone jewellery can be created through electroplating or PVD coating — both are established, water-safe methods when done well — and a few good habits help either finish stay looking its best. For the full comparison of the two, see Electroplating vs PVD Jewellery.
Avoid spraying perfume directly onto jewellery
Perfume contains alcohol and fragrance compounds that can interact with jewellery surfaces over time. A simple rule: beauty products first, jewellery last. Apply perfume, lotion and sunscreen before putting your jewellery on, and give them a moment to absorb.
Keep jewellery away from strong chemicals
Household cleaners are much harsher than everyday water. Remove rings and bracelets before using bleach, heavy cleaning products, solvents or strong disinfectants. Even durable jewellery doesn't need unnecessary chemical exposure.
Rinse after swimming
Pool water contains chlorine, seawater contains salt — both harsher than normal tap water. If you wear jewellery while swimming, rinse it afterwards with clean fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Wipe jewellery after wearing it
Skin naturally produces oils and sweat, which can leave jewellery looking slightly dull over time. You don't need to deep-clean constantly — a gentle wipe with a soft cloth after wearing brings the shine back. Every Tamola order ships with a polishing cloth for exactly this.
Store pieces separately
Jewellery can scratch other jewellery. Chunky rings, clasps and hard edges can rub against more delicate surfaces when everything's stored in one pile. A small pouch or individual compartment reduces unnecessary friction.
Be mindful of friction
Even a well-applied coating is still a surface. Rings generally see more wear than earrings because hands constantly touch things throughout the day, and bracelets can rub against desks and watch straps. This doesn't mean you should avoid wearing them — it simply explains why pieces like our Riva Sculptural Knot Earrings may age a little differently to a ring worn constantly, even on the same finish.
How should you clean gold-tone jewellery?
Keep it simple: lukewarm water if needed, a soft cloth, gentle wiping, and thorough drying. Avoid abrasive polishing products unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them — abrasives can remove surface material rather than just cleaning it.
Can you wear gold-tone jewellery in the shower?
Quality electroplated or PVD-coated stainless steel generally handles normal water exposure well — see Can You Shower With Stainless Steel Jewellery? for the details. Shampoos, soaps and other shower products can leave residue, so if keeping the finish pristine for as long as possible is your priority, removing jewellery before long showers is the gentlest option. If you occasionally forget, there's no need to panic — just rinse and dry the piece afterwards.
Jewellery is meant to be worn
Taking care of jewellery doesn't mean being afraid to wear it — the whole point of choosing durable materials is the opposite. A few small habits simply help preserve the finish so you can keep reaching for your favourite pieces. Explore our full gold-tone collection to find your next one.