Let’s get this out of the way: Yes, gold plated jewelry will tarnish. That thin coating of gold? It’s usually just a flash layer over a base metal, which means it fades fast, especially if you wear it daily, sleep in it, or gasp forget to take it off in the shower. It’s cute… until it’s not.
So if you’re tired of replacing your favorite pieces every few months, it might be time to upgrade—without blowing your entire paycheck.
What to Wear Instead: 14k Gold Filled
At Mogano, we don’t do cheap plating. We use 14k gold filled and .925 sterling silver, because we believe everyday jewelry should actually last more than a season.
Here’s the difference:
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Gold filled has 100x more gold than gold plated jewelry. It’s a thick layer of 14k gold, pressure-bonded to a brass core—aka, the closest thing to solid gold without the solid gold price tag.
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It’s water-resistant (yep, you can shower in it), hypoallergenic, and less likely to tarnish—especially if you follow a few simple care tips.
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It’s designed to be worn every day, not just for special occasions.
So no, gold filled isn’t completely immune to tarnishing, but it’s dramatically more durable than standard gold plated pieces.
How to Care for Your Gold Filled & Sterling Silver Jewelry
Like any good thing, your jewelry needs a little love. Here’s how to make it last:
✨ For 14k Gold Filled:
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Avoid harsh chemicals, lotions, perfumes, and chlorine-heavy pools.
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Store it right. When you’re not wearing your jewelry, keep it in a dry, enclosed space like a jewelry box or pouch to protect it from dust, moisture, and air exposure. Proper storage keeps your pieces looking their best, longer.
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Use a polishing cloth to bring back the shine anytime it starts to dull
✨ For Sterling Silver (925):
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Keep it dry—water and oxygen cause oxidation over time.
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Store it in a sealed pouch or box when you’re not wearing it.
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If it starts to oxidize, gently polish it with a jewelry cloth or soft toothbrush.
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Use a silver polishing paste/cleaner to keep it fresh.
So… Should I Ditch Gold Plated Jewelry for Good?
If you love fast fashion and don’t mind re-buying the same thing over and over, gold plated might work for you.
But if you want real-looking, long-lasting, high-quality pieces that are water-resistant, sweat-tolerant, and seriously cute? You’re looking for 14k gold filled and sterling silver. And that’s exactly what we do best.
Ready to upgrade your everyday stack?
Shop our bestselling 14k gold filled jewelry at shopmogano.com and say goodbye to tarnished jewels for good.