Anything plated will eventually wear away with time. However, with proper care, you can extend the lifespan and get more wear out of your gold plated jewelry. It can’t be said exactly how long it will last – it all depends on how and when you wear it.

1. Do not wear your plated rings while performing tasks that require excessive use of your hands. If you bump a gold plated ring or scratch it against various surfaces while cleaning, the plating will scratch. Soaps, lotions and chemicals will also cause the plating to wear off faster.

2. Do not sleep with your plated jewelry. Night sweat and extra rubbing against the skin will cause the plating to wear off faster.

3. Your skin pH also affects the plating. Some people perspire stronger than others causing the plating to fade faster. There are some people whose skin pH will cause the plating to wear down in mere days and some may wear it for months before it fades.

4. Do not wear gold plated items to the gym or while doing anything physical that might make you sweat. That will cause the plating to fade faster.

To clean your plated jewelry: Gentle rub the surface using a soft cloth, such as the Tiger Gems ultra suede pouch, to remove any dirt or surface debris and to restore shine. Fill a bowl with warm soapy water. Use lukewarm, not hot, water. Add a few drops of dish soap that doesn't leave a film. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub in the tight places, especially underneath the stone. Rinse and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Underneath the plating your item is made of solid sterling silver. Over time it will eventually start to tarnish and will require maintenance. You will have to take care of it just like you would any piece of sterling silver jewelry and polish it with a silver cleaning cloth.