18k Gold Plated Jewelry: The Ultimate Care & Maintenance Guide
At The Chubby Paw, we believe high-quality jewelry shouldn't be a choice between overpriced luxury and flimsy mass-market goods. Our 18k gold plated pieces—often featuring a 925 Sterling Silver base—are handcrafted by artisans to provide that "big brand" weight and radiance at a fair price.
To ensure your unique "wearable art" stays as vibrant as the day it arrived, follow this expert care protocol.
1. The Golden Rule: "Last On, First Off"
18k gold plating is a meticulous layer of real gold bonded to a base metal. To protect this precious surface:
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Avoid Chemical Contact: Always apply perfumes, hairsprays, and lotions before putting on your jewelry. Wait for them to fully dry.
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Remove Before Sleep: Nighttime friction against sheets can thin the gold plating over time.
2. Safeguard Against Moisture and Sweat
While we use heavy gold plating designed for longevity, gold-plated jewelry is not a fan of moisture.
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Gym & Workout: Sweat contains salts that can accelerate tarnishing. Remove your pieces before high-intensity activities.
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Swimming & Showers: Chlorine and salt water are abrasive. Keep your The Chubby Paw pieces in a dry environment to preserve their hand-polished finish.
3. Gentle Cleaning (No Harsh Chemicals)
Avoid "jewelry cleaners" which are often too acidic for plated items.
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The Soft Wipe: After each wear, use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away skin oils.
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Deep Clean: Use lukewarm water and a drop of mild, fragrance-free soap. Dip a soft-bristled brush (like a baby toothbrush) to clean intricate details of our custom pet portraits or hand-carved floral designs.
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Dry Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy. Pat dry and ensure no water remains in the crevices.
4. Smart Storage Solutions
Oxidation occurs when metal is exposed to air.
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Airtight is Best: Store your pieces in the original The Chubby Paw pouch or a sealed jewelry box.
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Individual Compartments: To prevent scratches on delicate Natural Opals or Handmade Glass, store items separately so they don't rub against each other.
Why The Chubby Paw Quality is Different
Most Instagram brands sell mass-produced factory stock. We choose a different path—the Handcrafted Boutique route.
| Feature | Mass-Market / Etsy | The Chubby Paw Boutique |
| Material Quality | Thin "flash" plating | Thick 18k Gold Plating / Vermeil |
| Base Metal | Unknown alloys (often contains Nickel) | Hypoallergenic 925 Sterling Silver |
| Artistry | Generic machine molds | Hand-carved, Artisan-polished |
| Sentimental Value | Temporary fashion | Custom Co-creations (Pet/Kids/Handwriting) |
Beyond Jewelry: A Piece of Your Story
What truly sets us apart isn't just the AAAA Freshwater Pearls or the high-grade Zirconia—it’s the "Emotional Value." Whether it is a pet silhouette necklace, a child’s drawing turned into gold, or a handwritten message from a loved one, we co-create these pieces with you.
Our 18k gold-plated jewelry is designed to be a long-term companion for your memories. With proper care, these small artworks will continue to tell your story for years to come.
