Gold Plated Jewellery: Your Complete 18ct Guide
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What Does 18ct Gold Plated Mean?
18ct gold-plated jewellery features a layer of real 18ct gold applied over a quality brass base. At Villa Valentina, each piece is crafted in our signature VV Metal Blend and finished with a 2.5-micron layer of 18ct gold, a nickel-free finish and a protective coating designed to help preserve its colour and shine.
The Quality Behind Our 18ct Gold-Plated Jewellery
Not all gold-plated jewellery is made in the same way. Its quality depends on the base metal, the thickness of the gold layer, the finishing process and how it is cared for.
• 2.5-micron layer of 18ct gold
• Quality brass VV Metal Blend base
• Nickel-free finish
• Protective clear coating
• Six-month warranty covering manufacturing defects
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How to Care for 18ct Gold-Plated Jewellery
There is no fixed lifespan for gold-plated jewellery. How long the finish lasts depends on how often it is worn, individual skin chemistry and contact with water, perfume, lotions, sweat and chemicals.
Our 2.5-micron 18ct gold layer and protective coating are designed to help preserve the finish. However, gold-plated jewellery is not waterproof and may naturally change or wear over time.
To maintain its colour and shine:
• Remove before showering, swimming or exercising
• Avoid perfume, lotions and cleaning products
• Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth after wearing
• Store each piece separately in a dry jewellery pouch or box
Your Questions Answered
About 18ct Gold-Plated Jewellery
The plating contains real 18ct gold, but the complete piece is not solid gold. In the UK, gold purity is commonly described as “ct”, while “k” is widely used elsewhere. Both 18ct and 18k refer to gold containing 75% pure gold.
There is no fixed lifespan. The finish may naturally change or wear over time depending on how often the jewellery is worn, individual skin chemistry, storage and contact with water, perfume, lotions, sweat and chemicals. Our 2.5-micron gold layer and protective coating help preserve its colour and shine for longer.
Gold-plated jewellery should not be considered waterproof. Remove it before showering, swimming or exercising, and avoid direct contact with perfume, lotions and cleaning products to help protect the finish.