Will 18k Gold Plated Jewelry Turn Your Skin Green? My Honest Experience

I've always loved the look of gold jewelry, but the price tag can be a real barrier. So, like many, I've turned to gold plated options. But a question always lingered in my mind: **will it turn my skin green?** I decided to dive in and share my experience with you all.

My Brush with Gold Plated Jewelry

I remember being super excited about a beautiful gold plated necklace I bought online. It looked stunning in the pictures, and the price was definitely right. I wore it almost every day, feeling like I had a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. But after a few weeks, I started noticing a slight green tinge on my skin where the necklace rested. It wasn't a good look, and I was definitely disappointed.

I started researching why this happened. I learned that the base metal underneath the gold plating is often the culprit. When the plating wears away, the base metal reacts with your skin's oils and sweat, causing oxidation, which leads to that dreaded green discoloration. I even heard that stainless steel, often used as a base, is quite inexpensive, which made me question the value of some of these plated pieces.

I also considered the cost. I saw one piece priced at $100, and it made me wonder if it was really worth it for something that might only last a short time. I began exploring other options and thinking about what makes a piece of jewelry a worthwhile investment.

My Solutions and Discoveries

After my initial disappointment, I wasn't ready to give up on gold plated jewelry altogether. I started experimenting with different brands and materials, and I discovered a few things that made a difference.

First, I learned that the thickness of the gold plating matters. Thicker plating lasts longer and is less likely to react with your skin. I also started paying attention to the base metal. While stainless steel itself doesn't usually tarnish, the plating over it can wear away. I also realized that my own body chemistry and skincare routine played a big role. Some people's skin reacts more strongly to certain metals than others. I even have a friend who finds that even solid 18k gold causes a reaction for her!

Speaking of alternatives, I stumbled upon a ring from Blingcharming that really caught my eye. It’s the DODO Charming Deep Blue Heart Shaped AAA Zirconia Ring.

I was drawn to its unique design and the high-quality zirconia stones. I decided to give it a try, and I was pleasantly surprised.

What I liked about this ring, besides its beautiful design, was that it seemed more durable than some of the other plated jewelry I had tried. I've been wearing it for a few weeks now, and I haven't noticed any green discoloration on my skin. It’s definitely become one of my favorite pieces.

Practical Tips and Advice

Based on my experience, here are some tips for buying and caring for gold plated jewelry:

• Look for thicker plating: The thicker the plating, the longer it will last.
• Consider the base metal: Some base metals are less likely to react with your skin.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Remove your jewelry before showering, swimming, or using cleaning products.
• Clean your jewelry regularly: Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away dirt and oils.
• Store your jewelry properly: Keep your jewelry in a dry, airtight container to prevent oxidation.

Also, remember that plated jewelry will eventually wear off. The lifespan can range from a couple of weeks to a few months, depending on several factors.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Gold Plated Jewelry

To help you decide if gold plated jewelry is right for you, here's a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:

• Pros:
  • Affordable way to achieve the look of gold
  • Wide variety of styles and designs
• Cons:
  • Plating can wear off over time
  • May cause skin discoloration in some people
  • Doesn't retain its value like solid gold

If you're looking for something that retains its value, you might consider investing in solid gold or other precious metals. However, for a budget-friendly option that allows you to experiment with different styles, gold plated jewelry can be a good choice.

My Experience with Stainless Steel Jewelry

I’ve also had some positive experiences with stainless steel jewelry itself. I’ve been wearing a stainless steel bracelet for a couple of months now, and I haven’t noticed any tarnishing, greenness, or dullness. I actually love it more than some of my silver pieces! It's a great option if you're looking for something that's durable and low-maintenance.

However, it's important to remember that even stainless steel can react with some people's skin. It really depends on your individual body chemistry. If you have sensitive skin, it's always a good idea to test a small piece of jewelry before committing to wearing it regularly.

My Final Thoughts

My journey with gold plated jewelry has been a learning experience. While I did encounter some issues with skin discoloration, I also discovered that there are ways to minimize the risk and find high-quality pieces that last longer. I’ve also learned that not all gold plated jewelry is created equal. Some are definitely better than others. The key is to do your research, read reviews, and choose reputable brands like Blingcharming.

Ultimately, whether or not gold plated jewelry is right for you depends on your personal preferences, budget, and skin sensitivity. Just be sure to go into it with realistic expectations and take good care of your pieces to extend their lifespan. If you are concerned about the gold wearing off and exposing the base metal, consider a different material for jewelry, or read more about jewelry options.

I hope my experience has been helpful! Happy jewelry hunting!