Gold Jewelry That Survives Water, Sweat and Real Life

Gold plated is the thinnest layer and the first to wear. Gold filled bonds a far thicker layer to a base metal and holds up for years. Vermeil is gold over sterling silver, which is kinder to sensitive skin. PVD-coated stainless steel is the workhorse of waterproof jewelry — heavy, tarnish-resistant and inexpensive.

Sunscreen, perfume and hairspray do more damage than water. Put jewelry on last, take it off first, and wipe pieces down with a dry cloth before they go back in a pouch.