Gold-tone stainless steel jewelry: is it good, and how long does it last?

In this guide

This guide uses the Audrey Earrings from our shop as its example. Everything said about the piece itself comes from its listing.

What gold-tone stainless steel jewelry is, how it compares with plated brass and , and how to make it last.

What it is

Gold-tone stainless steel jewellery is a steel piece with a thin gold-coloured layer bonded to the surface, usually by electroplating or PVD (vapour) coating. The steel underneath is strong and does not rust, which is why it has become one of the most popular materials for affordable everyday jewellery.

How it compares

• Against plated brass or alloy: steel is harder and does not darken, so when the gold layer eventually wears at the edges the metal underneath still looks clean and silver-coloured rather than dark.
• Against gold-filled: gold-filled has a much thicker gold layer and costs more; steel is the budget-friendly, sturdier everyday option.
• Against : is gold all the way through and lasts a , at many times the price. Gold-tone steel gives the look for everyday wear.

How long it lasts

How long the colour lasts depends far more on how it is worn than on the piece itself. Pieces worn every day in the shower, at the gym and in the pool fade fastest. Pieces put on after perfume and lotion, kept dry and stored separately can keep their colour for a long time.

Who it suits

It suits anyone who wants a gold look for everyday wear without the price of , people who like to change their jewellery with the seasons, and gift-givers looking for something that looks special at a sensible price.

About the Audrey Earrings

The Audrey Earrings is a gold-tone pair of earrings made for everyday wear. They add a finished touch to a plain outfit without taking it over.

• Material: Stainless steel with gold-tone electroplating.
• Size: Pair weighs about 12 g; drop length to be confirmed on a sample.
• What arrives: One pair of earrings.

See the Audrey Earrings →

Styling any earrings like this

Earrings frame the face, so they do the most work for the least effort. Hair down softens them, hair up makes them the focus. When your earrings are the statement, keep your necklace fine or leave it off.

Think about scale too: small, close-fitting earrings suit busy days, glasses and headphones; drops and larger shapes come into their own when your hair is up and your neckline is open. With several piercings, put the most detailed pair in the first hole and keep the others plain, so the look stays balanced.

Wearing gold-tone jewellery

Gold-tone pieces look warm and slightly vintage. They flatter warm and olive skin tones and look especially good with cream, camel, white, olive, black and denim. Keep your other jewellery in gold-tone, or add one silver piece on purpose, such as a watch, so the mix looks intentional.

Choosing earrings that suit you

When choosing earrings, look at the fastening (studs, hoops, hooks or clip-ons), the size, and the weight. Lighter earrings are more comfortable for long days; heavier statement pieces are best for evenings.

What to wear it with

Pieces from the shop in the same tone that complete the look: - Asgard Crafted Paracord Hammer Bracelet: bracelet, $21.00. - Pearl Zircon Necklace & Earrings Set: set, $20.00. - Love Vintage Shell Pendant Necklace: necklace, $18.00.

Wearing it all year

Through the year: in summer, lighter earrings are more comfortable in the heat and look fresh with hair tied up. In winter, earrings are often the one piece that shows between a scarf and a hat, so it is the season to wear the pair you love most; just take care pulling jumpers on and off.

Caring for stainless steel

Stainless steel is tough and keeps its colour well, so it is one of the easiest metals to live with. A wipe with a soft cloth keeps it bright. If it has a gold-tone finish, put it on after lotion and perfume and take it off for the gym, the shower and the pool, so the colour lasts longer. The listing adds: Wipe after wearing, keep away from perfume and water, and store the pair in its pouch.

As a gift

Earrings are a safe, thoughtful gift: no size to guess and they suit every style. Check the delivery dates on the product page before you order if you are buying for a date, and add a short handwritten note: it turns a pretty piece into a message.

Buying from Liravelle

The product page lists what the piece is made of, what arrives and the delivery dates before you order, and the confirmation email repeats them. Free US delivery over $50. 30-day returns. Tracked delivery.