11/06/2026
✨ Jewellery Finishes Explained ✨
One of the questions we’re asked most often is: “What’s the difference between waterproof, sterling silver and gold-plated jewellery?”
The answer depends on how you wear your jewellery and how much maintenance you’re happy to give it.
Our Pilgrim waterproof collection uses IP plating technology, making it extra resistant to corrosion and everyday wear. It’s a great choice if you rarely take your jewellery off and want something that can keep up with a busy lifestyle.
Sterling silver is a timeless classic. It can naturally tarnish over time, but the good news is that it can be cleaned and restored to its original shine again and again.
Gold-plated sterling silver offers the best of both worlds — a precious sterling silver base with a generous layer of gold on top. Our plated silver jewellery uses 3 microns of gold plating, which is thicker than many fashion jewellery pieces and helps improve durability.
As a general guide, standard plated jewellery can last anywhere from around 6 months to several years depending on how often it’s worn and how well it’s cared for. Jewellery worn every day, especially in water, while exercising, or exposed to products, will naturally show wear more quickly.
A few simple care tips can make a huge difference:
✨ Remove jewellery before applying perfume, hairspray, sunscreen or lotions.
✨ Avoid wearing it in hot tubs, swimming pools and the sea, as chlorine and salt can affect metals and plating.
✨ Take jewellery off before cleaning or handling household chemicals.
✨ Store pieces separately in a dry place when not wearing them.
Think of jewellery like your favourite clothes — the better you look after it, the longer it stays looking beautiful.
And if you’re wondering which finish is right for you, pop in and we’ll happily talk jewellery! 💛
♻️ Bonus feel-good fact:
Our sterling silver jewellery is made using recycled silver, and Pilgrim jewellery contains a minimum of 75% recycled materials, with many pieces containing even more.