Gold plated is a thin flash over base metal; vermeil is thicker gold over sterling silver; solid gold is gold throughout-priced higher, worn longer, and worth the splurge when longevity matters.

Keep earrings and piercings healthy: wash hands, clean jewelry with soap and water, disinfect with 70% isopropyl alcohol, and rinse well. Don’t use harsh peroxide; dry fully before wearing.

Keep gemstones brilliant: wipe with a lint-free cloth after wear, store separately to prevent scratches, avoid heat and chemicals, and schedule professional cleaning to refresh polish and tighten settings.

Mix warm water with a drop of mild dish soap, soak gold for 10 minutes, then brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Rinse, pat dry, and skip bleach, toothpaste, and abrasives.