How to Care for Gold-Filled Jewelry (and Keep It Looking New)
Tarnish tips, cleaning do’s & don’ts, and how to make your favorite pieces last
Gold-filled jewelry hits the sweet spot: luxe look, long wear, and way less fuss than solid gold. But “low maintenance” doesn’t mean no maintenance. If you want your favorite pieces to keep that glow — not go dull in a drawer — a little care goes a long way.
Whether you’re layering daily or just pulled your favorite hoops out of the catchall dish, here’s how to keep your gold-filled jewelry looking like it just slid out of the velvet pouch.
What Is Gold-Filled Jewelry?
Gold-filled jewelry isn’t gold-plated — not even close. While gold-plated pieces use a whisper-thin coating that wears off quickly, gold-filled jewelry is made by pressure-bonding a thick layer of real gold to a base metal, usually brass.
By definition, gold-filled jewelry must contain at least 5% gold by total weight — which is up to 100 times more gold than most plated options. That extra gold makes a big difference: it holds up better over time, resists tarnish, and is generally safer for sensitive skin.
In short, it gives you the look and longevity of solid gold without the solid gold price tag.
At Apelila, we also use gold vermeil in some pieces — a thick layer of gold over sterling silver. It’s just as beautiful, with a slightly different profile (we’ll cover that more in another guide).
How to Clean Gold-Filled Jewelry
You don’t need any special solution or kit — just a few household basics and a little consistency.
Here’s the best way to clean your gold-filled jewelry:
- Mix warm water with a small drop of mild soap. Something like original blue Dawn works well — it’s gentle, cuts through oils, and rinses clean. Avoid heavily scented body washes, hand soaps with antibacterial additives, or anything with exfoliants or essential oils — they can leave behind residue or speed up tarnishing.
- Soak your jewelry for a minute or two — no need to overdo it.
- Gently wipe with your fingers or a soft cloth to remove buildup.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Pat dry with a microfiber cloth or other lint-free towel. While paper towels are fine in a pinch, they can create tiny surface scratches over time. Microfiber is gentler and helps maintain a smoother finish.
If you need to get into small crevices, a soft-bristled brush (like a baby toothbrush) can help — just be gentle and avoid scrubbing. You don’t want to strip the gold or dull the surface.
Skip abrasive tools and definitely avoid chemical dips or polishing pastes not designed for gold-filled jewelry.
If your piece looks a little dull, a light buff with a jewelry-safe cloth (like a Sunshine cloth) can help bring the glow back.
What to Avoid
Gold-filled jewelry is known for being durable and low-maintenance — that’s exactly why we use it. But even the good stuff benefits from a little extra care, especially if you want it to stay looking fresh.
Here’s what to be mindful of:
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Chlorine (especially pools and hot tubs)
Chlorine is harsh on metals — much more so than saltwater. If you’re taking a dip in a chlorinated pool or spa, it’s best to take your jewelry off first. -
Ocean water
Saltwater isn’t as aggressive as chlorine, but it can still leave residue or speed up wear over time. If you wear your jewelry in the ocean, just give it a quick rinse with clean water and dry it off afterward. -
Sweaty workouts
Sweat itself won’t ruin your jewelry, but the salt and friction can wear down the finish faster. If you wear it to the gym or on a hot day, rinse it off and pat it dry when you’re done. -
Harsh chemicals
Cleaning sprays, bleach, acetone, even some perfumes and hairsprays — if it smells strong or stings your skin, it’s probably not great for your jewelry either. -
Tossing everything in a pile
Tangling and surface scratches can happen fast when pieces rub together. Use a pouch, jewelry tray, or travel case to keep things separate and protected.
Storage Matters More Than You Think
When you’re not wearing your jewelry, how you store it makes a bigger difference than most people realize. Even the most tarnish-resistant pieces can lose their luster if they’re constantly exposed to moisture, light, or friction.
A few easy rules for better jewelry storage:
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Keep it dry
Bathrooms are one of the worst places to store your jewelry — steam, humidity, and splashes from the sink can slowly wear down the finish. Aim for a cool, dry drawer or shelf instead. -
Avoid the tangle pile
Tossing necklaces, earrings, and rings into the same dish might look cute, but it leads to tangling, scratching, and lost pieces. Use a lined jewelry box or soft pouches to keep things separate and protected. -
Travel smart
Whether you’re packing for a weekend trip or heading to the beach, bring a designated jewelry pouch or mini organizer. It takes two seconds and saves your pieces from getting crushed in a tote or tangled at the bottom of a bag.
Signs It’s Time to Clean (or Let Go)
Even the best jewelry needs a little refresh now and then. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to give your gold-filled pieces some extra attention — or maybe retire them altogether.
Time to clean if:
- Your jewelry looks dull, smudged, or a little cloudy
- You notice buildup in clasps, chains, or around stones
- You’ve worn it daily for weeks without a rinse (no shame — we get it)
A quick clean with mild soap and water usually brings the shine right back. If not, try polishing gently with a jewelry-safe cloth.
Time to let go if:
- You see flaking, peeling, or obvious discoloration that doesn’t improve with cleaning
- The finish feels rough, patchy, or uneven
These are signs you may be dealing with plated jewelry — or that your piece has just lived a full life. Either way, it’s a good reminder to invest in quality materials (and take care of them) next time around.
Well-made gold-filled jewelry should hold up beautifully with everyday wear — especially when it’s made to last and cared for with a little intention.
Want pieces that go the distance? Explore our best-selling everyday jewelry — designed to shine through whatever your day brings.