If you’ve ever wondered what it means for a piece of jewelry to be “gold plated,” you’re in the right place. Gold plating is a technique used to give pieces the shine of gold — without being made entirely of this precious metal.
At MESH, all gold-colored pieces are made of 925 silver and receive an 18kt gold plating with a thickness of 1 micron. A handcrafted process designed to ensure durability, shine, and detail.
What does “gold plating” mean?
It’s the process of applying a thin layer of gold over a base of 925 silver through electrolysis. But at MESH, this process starts even earlier: our pieces first go through a palladium bath, which prepares the silver surface to ensure better gold adhesion and greater wear resistance.
After the gold plating, we apply a anti-tarnishing treatment, which protects against oxidation and helps maintain the jewelry’s shine for much longer.
The result is a piece of jewelry with the look and shine of gold, but at a more affordable cost and with less environmental impact. This process allows us to create pieces with texture, lightness, and design — keeping the golden appearance for much longer, as long as they are well cared for.
How long does gold plating last?
It depends on several factors — such as the thickness of the plating, frequency of use, and daily care. At MESH, we use a 1 micron plating, which offers greater wear resistance than thinner layers.
On average, a gold-plated piece can maintain its shine for 1 to 3 years with regular use — but with the right care, it can last much longer.
How to tell if a piece has good gold plating?
- ✔️ It’s made with noble materials, like 925 silver
- ✔️ It uses quality gold (such as 18kt)
- ✔️ It has a smooth, even finish
- ✔️ It comes with care instructions — and maintenance support
MESH Jewellery meets all these criteria. And more: we offer our exclusive Jewellery Revival program so you can renew the plating and extend the life of your piece even further.
💡 Extra tip from MESH
Always remove your jewelry before showering, avoid contact with perfumes, and store them separately. These small habits make all the difference in the durability of the gold plating.
✨ 18kt gold plated jewelry built to last:
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To better care for your pieces and extend the life of the gold plating, also read our guide: How to care for gold plated jewelry.
