How to Clean and Care for Your 18ct Gold Plated Missoma Jewellery

Your Missoma jewellery is more than an accessory—it's an investment in style. Whether you've just added the Solar Studded Ring or the Chubby Tunnel Huggies to your collection, proper care ensures your 18ct gold plated pieces remain radiant for years. Gold plating adds a luxurious finish, but it requires gentle handling to prevent wear. In this guide, we'll share essential tips for cleaning, storing, and maintaining your gold vermeil and gold plated jewellery.

Gold plated jewellery consists of a thin layer of gold over a base metal, often brass or sterling silver. With regular wear, the plating can fade or tarnish if exposed to chemicals, moisture, or friction. By following a simple care routine, you can preserve the brilliance of your Missoma favourites, from the Wavy Ridge Chain Choker to the Solid Gold Initial Mini Pendant Necklace.

Understanding Gold Plating and Gold Vermeil

Gold plated jewellery features a thin layer of gold bonded to a base metal. Missoma's gold vermeil pieces, like the Magma Gemstone Cuff Bracelet, use a thicker layer of 18ct gold over sterling silver, offering superior durability. However, both types need careful treatment to avoid peeling or discolouration. The key difference is thickness: vermeil has at least 2.5 microns of gold, while standard plating may be thinner. This means vermeil can withstand more wear but still requires gentle care.

To identify your piece, check the product description. Items labelled '18ct Gold Vermeil' have a solid silver core, while 'Gold Plated' may use brass. Both are beautiful, but care routines differ slightly. For example, the Savi Signature Triple Ring is gold plated, so avoid harsh chemicals. Always treat your jewellery as the last step in your routine—after perfumes, lotions, and hairspray.

• Gold vermeil: thicker gold layer over sterling silver; more durable but still delicate.
• Gold plated: thinner layer over brass or other base metals; needs extra caution.
• Avoid contact with water, sweat, and household chemicals to prolong life.

Daily Care Tips for Your Missoma Jewellery

Prevention is the best care. Remove your jewellery before swimming, showering, or exercising. Chlorine and saltwater can accelerate tarnish, while soap residue can dull the shine. When applying lotions or perfumes, wait a few minutes for them to absorb before putting on your pieces. This simple habit protects the plating and keeps your jewellery looking new.

Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or the original Missoma box to prevent scratches. Avoid tossing multiple items together—chains can tangle, and rings can rub against each other. For delicate items like the Curly Molten Mini Initial Necklace, lay it flat rather than hanging to avoid stretching. Keep your jewellery box in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Put jewellery on after makeup, perfume, and lotions.
• Remove before swimming, showering, or heavy workouts.
• Store in individual pouches or compartments to prevent scratching.

How to Clean Your Gold Plated Jewellery at Home

Cleaning your Missoma pieces is simple with gentle methods. For routine cleaning, use a soft, lint-free cloth to buff away oils and dust. For deeper cleaning, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Dip a soft cloth (not the jewellery itself) and gently wipe the surface. Avoid soaking, as water can seep into crevices. Rinse the cloth and wipe again to remove soap residue, then pat dry with a separate cloth.

For stubborn tarnish on gold vermeil, use a jewellery polishing cloth specifically designed for gold. Never use abrasive cleaners, toothpaste, or baking soda, as these can strip the plating. The Pave Initial Single Stud Earring or the Mens Filia Chain Bracelet can be gently polished, but avoid rubbing too hard. If tarnish persists, consult a professional jeweller.

• Use only soft, non-abrasive cloths.
• Never submerge gold plated jewellery in water.
• Avoid chemical jewellery cleaners—stick to mild soap and water.

When to Seek Professional Cleaning

While home care works for most pieces, some situations call for expert help. If your jewellery has gemstones like cubic zirconia (as in the Solar Studded Ring), intricate settings, or heavy tarnish, a professional can clean without damaging the plating. Missoma recommends visiting a trusted jeweller once a year for a thorough check-up. They can also re-plate items if the gold layer wears thin.

For solid gold pieces like the Solid Gold Square Solitaire Flat Back Stud Earring, professional cleaning is optional but beneficial. However, for gold plated and vermeil items, avoid ultrasonic cleaners—they can loosen stones or damage the plating. Always ask your jeweller about their methods before handing over your pieces.

• Professional cleaning is ideal for gemstone or intricate pieces.
• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for plated jewellery.
• Annual check-ups help extend the life of your pieces.

How to Store Your Jewellery to Prevent Tarnish

Proper storage is crucial for preventing tarnish. Keep your jewellery in a dry, dark place—humidity and light accelerate oxidation. Missoma's original packaging is perfect, but you can also use anti-tarnish strips or pouches. For long-term storage, seal pieces in a zip-lock bag with the air squeezed out. This is especially important for items like the Chubby Tunnel Huggies, which are worn frequently and can accumulate oils.

Separate your metals: store gold plated pieces away from sterling silver to avoid reactions. If you travel, use a jewellery roll with individual compartments. Never store jewellery in the bathroom—the moisture from showers will speed up tarnish. A dedicated jewellery box with a soft lining is ideal.

• Use anti-tarnish strips or pouches for extra protection.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
• Keep different metals separate to prevent chemical reactions.

Caring for your 18ct gold plated Missoma jewellery doesn't have to be complicated. With a few simple habits—gentle cleaning, mindful wearing, and proper storage—you can enjoy your favourite pieces for years. Whether you're dressing up the Solar Studded Ring or adding the Wavy Ridge Chain Choker to your daily rotation, a little care goes a long way. Explore our collection and find your next treasure to cherish.