Caring for your pieces
Let’s get one thing clear from the jump — we’re not here for the plated, the vermeil, or the “looks like gold until it rains” crowd. No shade, but this one’s for the forever pieces. The solid gold. The real-deal heirlooms. The ones you’ll one day pass down, or more likely stubbornly hoard until your great-grandkids stage a jewellery intervention.
Solid gold jewellery is the ultimate slow-fashion statement. It doesn’t tarnish, it doesn’t rust, and it doesn’t give up on you after one summer holiday. But while gold is tough, it’s not invincible — it deserves a little TLC to keep shining like the star it is.
So if you’ve been yeeting your rings onto your bedside table, stuffing your necklaces into a drawer spaghetti-style, or wearing your bangles in the ocean "because gold doesn't tarnish", pull up a chair. Let’s talk about how to treat your golden treasures like the glittering little dependents they are.
First, Let’s Talk About Why Gold Still Needs Care
Yes, solid gold doesn’t tarnish like plated pieces do, but it’s still susceptible to scratching, dullness, and buildup from daily wear. Think moisturiser, sunscreen (hello Aussie summer), perfume, sweat, sand, and snacks. Your jewellery might be solid, but it still lives in the real world.
Here’s how to keep your pieces sparkling without leaving the house:
1. Warm Water & Dish Soap Soak (aka: the jewellery bubble bath)
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Mix warm (not hot) water with a dash of gentle dish soap.
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Let your jewellery soak for 15–20 minutes.
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Use a soft baby toothbrush to gently brush away any gunk (especially around settings and chain links).
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Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. (Microfibre is your bestie here.)
Pro tip: Don’t do this over the sink unless the plug is in. Learned that one the hard way. RIP to the earring that got away.
2. Baking Soda Paste (for the brave)
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Mix baking soda with a few drops of water to make a paste.
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Gently rub it onto the gold with your fingers or soft cloth.
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Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Only do this for SOLID gold. Plated or vermeil? You’ll scrub the gold right off. And we don’t want tears, just sparkle.
Where to Store Your Gold Babies (When They’re Off-Duty)
Just like you wouldn't chuck your child into a drawer (I hope), don’t do that to your jewellery. Here’s where your golden mini's should live:
1. Fabric-Lined Jewellery Box
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Bonus points if it has compartments. No tangled necklaces or scratched earrings on your watch.
2. Anti-Tarnish Pouches
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Even though gold doesn't tarnish much, it helps keep dust and residue at bay.
3. Vintage Teacups or Odd Little Trinket Dishes
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Not exactly high-tech, but undeniably chic - add some soft material into the base to protect your pieces. Perfect for bedside tables if you absolutely must take off your ring before bed.
4. Travel Case with Padding
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If you're on the move, store each piece in a soft pouch or travel case. No raw-dogging it in your handbag, please.
The Bottom Line
Solid gold doesn’t ask for much. It just wants to be worn, admired, and gently bathed every so often — like a low-maintenance diva.
Treat your heirloom pieces like the tiny sparkling dependents they are. Give them a safe space, a bubble bath, and a moment out of the gym bag. In return, they’ll love you forever. Like, “still looking perfect in 2075” kind of forever.
So go ahead — wear your gold with pride, clean it with love, and stash it with style. After all, if you’re investing in forever pieces, forever starts with you.
