How to Care for Gold Plated Silverware

Gold plated silverware may become a family heirloom.

Gold plated silverware is an elegant addition to a formal table setting. Often used only for special occasions, this type of silverware will retain its beauty for generations with attentive care. The gold plating layer on the pieces of flatware may be only microns thick and is subject to pitting and stains. Invest the time to maintain and store this fine cutlery properly to preserve the gold plated silverware as a family heirloom.

Things You'll Need

• Dishwashing pan
• Unscented dishwashing liquid
• Washcloth
• Cotton towel
• Tarnish-resistant silverware box
• Flannel cloth

Instructions

1. Wash gold plated silverware promptly after use so that residue will not stain or pit the pieces. Set the silverware gently in a dishwashing pan filled with hot water and a squeeze of unscented dishwashing liquid. Allow to soak until the water is cooled enough to comfortably handle the silverware, but no longer than an hour.

2. Rub each piece of silverware individually with a soft dishcloth to remove any debris. Rinse each piece thoroughly under a stream of hot water from the faucet. Set the clean, rinsed pieces in a dish strainer until all the silverware has been washed.

3. Dry each piece of gold plated silverware promptly with a soft cotton towel to avoid water spots. Run an edge of of the towel between each tine of the forks and around the holes in serrated spoons to remove all moisture.

4. Store the gold plated silverware in a tarnish resistant silverware box. Stack each type of utensil with like utensils to avoid scratching. Keep the storage box closed tightly to eliminate moisture and air circulation that could cause tarnish or corrosion.

5. Buff the gold plated silverware two or three times a year with a piece of soft flannel cloth. Rub each utensil lengthwise and then with circular motions to develop a polished sheen.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use orange or lemon dishwashing liquid as the acid in the formulation may pit the gold plating on silverware.

• To avoid scratching the silverware's gold finish, do not use a sponge with a scrubber side.

References

• Ricci Argentieri: Flatware Care and Mainenance
• Society of American Silversmiths: Silver Care