Is Gold Jewellery Suitable for Daily Wear?
Durability, Karat Differences and Benefits
Gold jewellery is a stunning accessory that complements many outfits, whether for work or pleasure and, yes, you can wear gold jewellery every day! The most important part of daily wear is that you take care of the jewellery and clean it regularly so the pieces keep their beautiful shine.
The durability of gold ensures that you can wear gold jewellery daily but the strength of the durability depends on the karat. A karat is a unit of measurement of how pure gold is. A high gold karat, such as 22K, is softer because it contains a higher percentage of pure gold. This makes it more susceptible to scratches, whereas 14K or 18K gold is more durable for everyday use.
Risks to Gold Jewellery in Daily Use
Chemicals, Sweat and Cosmetics
Daily wear can cause your gold jewellery to lose its shine and lustre over time due to exposure to sweat, chemicals and cosmetics. This is why regular cleaning is vital to maintain its gorgeous look.
When cleaning gold, you should also avoid using any harsh chemical cleaning agents which can cause gold tarnish. Stick to warm soapy water to remove any dirt and grime build up and polish up with a lint-free or jewellers’ cloth. Create a regular cleaning schedule to ensure you can wear your gold jewellery daily without worrying about its appearance.
Scratches, Bends and Water Damage
Daily wear also poses more risk of scratches, dents and bends to the jewellery. It is advisable to remove any jewellery prior to physical activities to keep the gold safe and protected. Gold jewellery may also be affected by water damage and so should be removed before swimming, showering or washing up to maintain its shine.
There are some risks that come with daily gold wear but, with regular maintenance, your gold jewellery will look incredible for years to come.
Best Types of Gold Jewellery for Everyday Use
Solid vs Filled vs Plated
There are different types of gold jewellery that are suitable for everyday use or perfect for those special occasions.
Solid gold is high in purity but the higher the karat, the softer the gold and so it may be a better idea to choose a lower karat which is more durable and perfect for everyday wear.
Gold-filled (or ‘rolled gold’ or ‘bonded gold’) jewellery uses pressure bonding to apply a thick layer of gold onto a base metal such as copper or silver. This is less expensive than solid gold and more durable than gold plated, making it an affordable choice for everyday wear that will last with a little bit of regular cleaning.
Gold plated is made by electroplating a very thin layer of gold onto a base metal. This is the cheapest option but the gold layer is known to fade and tarnish over time, even with regular cleaning. This may not make this the best option for long term, everyday wear.
Recommended Karats and Everyday Designs
Gold is a very soft metal and so for most gold jewellery accessories, 14 karat gold is recommended. This is a very common choice for wedding rings, which are worn every day, and even going up to an 18 karat ring will still provide durability and a long lasting shine.
24 karat is the highest karat available for gold jewellery but this is considered to be too soft and malleable for everyday wear since it is at greater risk of scratches, becoming misshapen and damage.
Daily Care Tips and Maintenance
Cleaning, Drying and Storage at Home
Cleaning gold jewellery regularly is essential to maintain its lustre for years ahead. An essential cleaning tip is to simply soak the gold jewellery in warm water mixed with some mild liquid soap and use a soft brush to clean any dirt away.
Dry the gold with a soft cloth to remove all moisture which can cause the gold to patina if not dried fully. The soft cloth will also act as a polisher, enhancing the gorgeous shine of the gold. For suitable storage, a jewellery box will keep the pieces separated to avoid any tangling and you can wrap the jewellery in a soft cloth to prevent scratches.
When to Seek Professional Cleaning and Repairs
It is advisable to book your gold jewellery in for a professional clean and polish once a year to maintain its beautiful appearance. A regular cleaning will ensure the gold looks perfect for many years ahead. A professional repair is only needed when you notice any damage to the jewellery, whether it is a scratch or the clasp or link in a bracelet or necklace is damaged.
Common Myths and FAQs
Does Gold Tarnish?
Pure gold is a noble precious metal that, when pure, does not tarnish. However, since most gold jewellery is mixed with other metals, it is possible that some gold jewellery will tarnish. Tarnishing occurs when the metal reacts with oxygen or water, with the degree of tarnish depending on the amount of alloy in the jewellery piece. The higher the karat gold, the less likely the jewellery is to tarnish and so it is advised to purchase 14 karat or 18 karat gold for stunning long lasting jewellery.
Can You Swim with Gold Jewellery?
It is highly recommended that you remove any pieces of gold jewellery before swimming because the water and chemicals could react with the other metals in the jewellery and cause damage. Keep contact with water to a minimum while wearing gold jewellery to ensure it keeps its stunning shine and lustre.
Why Choose OM Gold & Diamonds for Everyday Gold Jewellery
Expert Care, Custom Pieces and Jewellery Services
OM Gold & Diamonds is a fantastic choice for everyday gold jewellery. We can offer you beautiful pieces at competitive prices and expert jewellery advice at all times. You can discover a standout selection of gold jewellery, from rings and earrings, to bracelets and necklaces and custom pieces tailored to your unique style and the occasion at our store.
We also offer a range of jewellery services, including professional cleaning, repairs and alterations to ensure OM Gold & Diamonds provides you with everything you could possibly need when it comes to buying and taking care of gold jewellery.
Conclusion
Keep Your Gold Jewellery Beautiful for Daily Wear
Wear your gold jewellery daily and keep it looking stunning with a little care. Remove any gold jewellery before physical activities or going swimming. Protect your precious accessories with a little careful cleaning and storage so that you can enjoy your beautiful gold jewellery for many years to come.
Visit OM Gold & Diamonds for expert advice and explore our gold jewellery collection to find your perfect gold pieces, ideal for everyday wear and those special occasions.
