Costume jewelry is a great alternative to solid gold or pure silver. More affordable, it allows for a variety of styles while adding a touch of elegance. But how can you recognize quality jewelry and ensure it won't tarnish after a few uses? One of the essential criteria to understand is the thickness of the gold or silver plating , often expressed in microns . Let's decipher together what these terms mean and how to choose your costume jewelry so it lasts over time.

1. What is gold plating?

Gold-plated jewelry is a piece of jewelry made of base metal (often brass, copper, or silver) to which a thin layer of gold is applied through a process called electrolysis . This layer of gold is measured in microns and determines the strength and durability of the jewelry.

The thicker the gold layer, the more resistant the jewelry will be to wear and oxidation.

2. Understanding microns: 1 micron, 3 microns, 5 microns… What’s the difference?

Plating thickness is a key criterion for judging the quality of a piece of costume jewelry. Here's what it means:

1 micron gold plated

• Very thin layer of gold, often used for entry-level jewelry.

• May tarnish quickly and reveal the underlying metal.

• Ideal for jewelry worn occasionally.

3 micron gold plated (standard in quality costume jewelry)

• French law: a piece of jewelry must have at least 3 microns of gold to be considered “gold plated.”

• Good resistance over time, especially if the jewel is well maintained.

• Better resistance to friction and humidity.

Gold plated 5 microns or more (high quality)

• Excellent durability, close to solid gold jewelry in appearance.

• Increased resistance to everyday aggressions (water, perspiration, perfume, etc.).

• Perfect for everyday use without fear of rapid tarnishing.

👉 Skalli advice : Choose gold plating with a minimum of 3 microns for quality costume jewelry that lasts.

3. What is the difference between gold plating and fine gold plating?

Many consumers confuse gold plating with fine gold plating . However, there is a key difference:

👉 Gold-plated jewelry is often less expensive, but its thin layer of gold wears off quickly.

4. How to extend the life of your costume jewelry?

Even a piece of jewelry plated with 3 microns or more of gold requires proper care to maintain its shine. Here are some tips to keep it looking its best for as long as possible:

• Avoid contact with water : Do not wear your jewelry in the shower, swimming pool or sea.
• Avoid perfume and cosmetics : Spray your perfume before putting on your jewelry.
• Remove them before sleeping and exercising : Perspiration and friction accelerate wear.
• Store them carefully : Keep them in a jewelry box, away from humidity and light.
• Clean them regularly : Use a soft cloth or a special jewelry wipe to remove traces of dirt.

👉 Skalli advice : By taking care of your jewelry, you can prolong its shine for several years .

5. Why choose high-quality costume jewelry?

A well-designed piece of costume jewelry can have a long lifespan while offering excellent value for money. By investing in jewelry plated with a minimum of 3 microns of gold , you can ensure:

• Long-lasting shine without rapid dulling.
• A jewel that is more resistant to oxidation and friction.
• A more precious finish and closer to real gold.

At Skalli, we favor high-quality jewelry, gold-plated to a minimum of 1 to 3 microns, to offer you elegant and durable pieces.

Choosing your costume jewelry carefully: a guarantee of quality and longevity

When it comes to fashion jewelry, not all are created equal . By understanding the difference between 1 micron, 3 micron, or 5 micron gold plating , you can make an informed choice and invest in pieces that will last longer.

Always remember to check the thickness of the plating and adopt good maintenance habits to maintain the shine of your favorite jewelry.

Looking for elegant and durable jewelry? Discover our 3-micron gold-plated collections for impeccable quality.