How to Care for Gold Plated and Rhodium Plated Jewellery
A favourite necklace or pair of earrings can become part of your everyday routine. A little care helps keep those pieces looking their best, especially when they have a plated finish.
RUMI’s gold plated and rhodium plated stainless steel jewellery benefits from gentle handling. Our rings have a sterling silver base, so always check the materials listed on your individual product page before cleaning.
Put jewellery on last and take it off first
Apply perfume, body lotion, sunscreen and hair products before putting on your jewellery, and allow them to dry. Remove your pieces before showering, swimming, exercising or cleaning. Chlorine, salt water, sweat and household chemicals can affect plated finishes.
Stainless steel underneath the plating does not make the whole piece waterproof. The outer finish, any stones, pearl details and joins all need care. Taking jewellery off before bed also helps reduce rubbing and accidental snagging.
How to clean gold plated jewellery
After wearing, gently wipe your jewellery with a clean, soft, dry cloth to remove surface oils. Avoid vigorous rubbing, abrasive cloths, metal polish and harsh jewellery cleaners: these can wear away the thin layer of gold.
If a piece needs more than a light wipe, contact us for advice about that design rather than soaking it or trying a strong cleaning solution. Different details and settings may need different treatment.
How to care for rhodium plated jewellery
Rhodium plating gives our silver-tone stainless steel pieces their finish. Use the same gentle approach: a soft, dry cloth, minimal friction and protection from chemicals and moisture.
A silver polishing cloth is not automatically suitable for a rhodium plated piece. Some contain polishing compounds intended for unplated silver, so avoid them on plated surfaces unless their suitability has been confirmed.
What about sterling silver rings and pearl details?
Sterling silver can tarnish over time, but cleaning should still suit the ring’s complete design. A gold-tone finish, stones or pearl details may need gentler treatment than plain, unplated silver. Do not use silver dip, abrasive polish or an ultrasonic cleaner on these details without specific advice.
Wipe pearl details gently and avoid soaking them. Keep them away from perfume and cleaning products, and let any moisture dry before putting the piece away.
Store each piece separately
Keep jewellery in a dry place, away from humid bathrooms and direct sunlight. Separate compartments or soft pouches help prevent scratches and tangles. Fasten necklace clasps before storing, and avoid leaving delicate chains loose with heavier pieces.
Plating can wear gradually with use; careful storage and gentle cleaning help reduce unnecessary wear. For advice about a particular piece, contact RUMI or visit our jewellery FAQs.
Find your next everyday favourite in our gold plated necklaces or silver-tone earrings.