How to Tell Good Gold Plating: 6 Quality Checks Before You Buy

Gold-plated jewellery can range from luxurious and long-lasting… to flimsy and fading within weeks. Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a fashion lover, or a reseller looking to offer customers the best, knowing how to assess plating quality will help you buy smart and build trust.

The 6 Quality Checks Before You Buy Gold-Plated Jewellery

1. Plating Thickness (Microns Matter)

• Look for: At least 2–3 microns for durability.

• Why: Thicker plating resists scratches and lasts longer before the base metal shows through.

• Pro Tip: Ask the seller for Guarantee or Buyback policy to back the quality they claim— vague terms like “long-lasting gold finish” often mean thin plating.

2. Base Metal Type

• Look for: Brass or sterling silver base for strength and longevity. Avoid nickel or cheap alloys.

• Why: The base metal affects weight, feel, and allergy risk. Gold Covered is more hypoallergenic.

3. Coating & Sealing Process

• Look for: Additional protective coating like e-coating or rhodium layer.

• Why: Acts as a shield against tarnish, sweat, and perfume damage.

• Pro Tip: If buying for daily wear, insist on sealed plating.

4. Uniform Colour & Shine

• Look for: Even, warm gold tone — not patchy or overly yellow.

• Why: Uneven colour suggests poor plating or thin spots.

• Test: Compare under both warm and cool light to see if the colour changes oddly.

5. Guarantee or Warranty

• Look for: At least 6 months warranty against fading.

• Why: Vendors confident in their quality will stand behind it.

• Tanishka Advantage: All our jewellery comes with 6-month guarantee, exchange up to 1 year, and lifetime buyback.

6. Vendor Transparency

• Look for: Clear product descriptions, care guides, and return/exchange policy.

• Why: Reputable sellers educate their customers — they don’t hide details.

Quick Reference Checklist for Buyers