Jewelry care tips for first-time buyers

Everyday Care Basics

• Put it on last, take it off first. Apply perfume, lotion, and hairspray before you put on jewelry so the pieces avoid direct contact.
• Remove before water and sweat. Take pieces off before showering, swimming, exercising, or sleeping. Water and sweat speed up surface wear.
• Wipe after each wear. A quick pass with a soft, dry cloth removes skin oils and moisture that dull the finish.

Clean the Right Way

Use a clean microfiber or jewelry polishing cloth. Gentle buffing brings back the shine without scratching the surface.

For light buildup, a drop of mild soap in lukewarm water and a soft brush works well. Rinse, then dry fully with a towel. Never use abrasive cleaners, toothpaste, or dips made for solid gold or silver, as they strip the plating.

Store It Smart

Keep each piece in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with separate slots so items do not rub against each other. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Avoid tossing chains together. Tangling and friction cause scratches and shorten the life of the plating.

Our Plating Standard and How Long It Lasts

At Hengdian (HD) Jewelry we plate 18K gold over brass to a thickness of 0.1-0.3 micron under our own standard, with nickel added in a controlled amount so its release stays within REACH limits (lead-free). If you need a different layer thickness, custom plating is available on request.

Our pieces are made in our own factory in Shanwei Haifeng, Guangdong, where we manage 5 production lines and 14 processes in-house and can roll out new designs in as fast as 7 days. With basic care, everyday gold-plated pieces hold their color well; actual lifespan depends on how often and where you wear them.