How to care for gold-plated and silver jewellery so it lasts for years

The DASAR collection is made by hand from Ag925 silver, and part of it is plated with 22-karat gold. These are small works of art with an irregular texture reminiscent of the seabed – and like the sea, they need a little respect. The good news: the care takes a minute.

Why silver tarnishes and plating fades

Silver reacts with sulphur in the air, sweat and cosmetics – a dark film forms that can be wiped off. Gold plating is a thin layer of gold over silver; it doesn't tarnish, but it wears mechanically: rubbing against clothes, keys, other jewellery. The less friction and chemistry, the longer it lasts.

The "last on, first off" rule

Put jewellery on after perfume, hairspray and cream – and take it off before the shower, the pool, sport and sleep. Perfume contains alcohol, which gradually dulls the plating; chlorinated water and sea salt harm it the most.

Cleaning

• Routinely: wipe with a soft cotton cloth after wearing – it removes sweat and oils before they react.
• Silver (not plated): lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, a soft brush into the texture, rinse, dry. For a darker film, a silver polishing cloth.
• Gold-plated: water and a cloth only. No polishing pastes, brushes or ultrasonic cleaners – you'd wipe the gold off with the film.

Storage

Each piece separately, in a fabric pouch or a jewellery-box compartment, away from direct sun and damp. Necklaces hung or clasped – a clasped chain doesn't tangle. Add a strip of chalk or the silica gel from the packaging to the box: it absorbs the moisture that tarnishes silver.

Rings: the most exposed

A ring touches everything – handles, bags, the steering wheel. Take the gold-plated DASAR ring off for manual work, washing up and the gym; the silver version takes more, but clean it more often. Worn plating can be renewed by a goldsmith – no reason to retire the piece.

Ring size

DASAR rings come in several sizes; measure the circumference of your finger with a thread in the evening (fingers are slimmer during the day) and write the size in the order note. We also advise via contact.

The DASAR collection is made by hand in small runs – every piece is unique; small variations in texture are part of the design, not a fault.