Gold plated jewelry has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its affordability and fashionable appearance. However, many people wonder whether it's safe to wear gold plated jewelry in the shower. In this article, we'll explore the topic and provide some tips to help you protect your jewelry.
What is Gold Plated Jewelry?
Gold plated jewelry is made by applying a layer of gold over a base metal, such as brass or copper. The thickness of the gold layer can vary, but it's typically between 0.5 and 2.5 microns thick. This creates a piece of jewelry that looks like solid gold but is much more affordable.
Can You Wear Gold Plated Jewelry in the Shower?
While it's technically possible to wear gold plated jewelry in the shower, it's not recommended. Water, soap, and other shower products can cause damage to the delicate gold plating. Tarnishing can occur when the thin layer of gold wears off, exposing the base metal underneath. This can cause the jewelry to appear dull and discolored. Additionally, prolonged exposure to water can cause the base metal to corrode, which can further damage the jewelry.
Precautions to Take
If you absolutely must wear your gold plated jewelry in the shower, there are some precautions you can take to minimize the risk of damage. Firstly, ensure that the jewelry is completely dry before wearing it. This can help to prevent water from getting trapped between the jewelry and your skin, which can accelerate tarnishing. Secondly, avoid using harsh soaps or shampoos that can be abrasive to the jewelry. Instead, use gentle, pH-neutral products that are less likely to damage the gold plating. Similarly, avoid using abrasive sponges or cloths to clean the jewelry, as this can scratch the gold layer and cause it to wear off more quickly.
Finally, be sure to remove your jewelry as soon as you're finished showering. This can help to prevent prolonged exposure to water, which can increase the risk of damage to the jewelry.
Alternative Options
The best option is to simply remove your gold plated jewelry before showering. This can help to ensure that your jewelry stays in good condition for longer and prevents any potential damage from occurring.
While it's technically possible to wear gold plated jewelry in the shower, it's not recommended. Water, soap, and other shower products can cause damage to the delicate gold plating. To protect your jewelry, it's best to avoid wearing it in the shower altogether. If you must wear your gold plated jewelry in the shower, be sure to take precautions to minimize the risk of damage. Alternatively, consider wearing jewelry made from materials that are designed to be worn in water or simply remove your jewelry before showering. By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your gold plated jewelry stays in good condition for longer.
