What Does 22ct Matt Gold Plate Mean?

Gold can describe a colour, a material or a surface finish, and those are not the same thing.

At inSync, 22ct matt gold plate describes a gold-plated surface applied over the stainless-steel form. The matt finish is deliberately soft rather than highly polished, allowing the shape and line of the piece to remain central.

What is underneath the gold finish?

The structural material is stainless steel. I use it because it is strong, relatively light and gives me the architectural possibilities I need for sculptural jewellery.

The gold is the surface finish. It changes the warmth and character of the same form without changing the design underneath it.

Does gold plate last forever?

No plated surface should be described as permanent.

How a finish changes depends on the piece, how often it is worn, friction, skin chemistry, cosmetics, moisture and how it is stored. Areas that experience more contact naturally receive more wear.

How should I care for matt gold plated jewellery?

Keep the piece away from perfume, lotions and household chemicals where possible. inSync’s stainless steel and gold plating are designed to withstand everyday exposure to water and sweat, including swimming and exercise. After wearing, gently wipe the surface and store it separately so it does not rub against other jewellery.

Why use gold plate rather than make the piece from solid gold?

Because the material and construction are part of the design.

Stainless steel allows me to create scale, line and negative space while keeping the work practical to wear. The matt gold finish then adds warmth to that structure. The intention is not to imitate solid-gold fine jewellery. It is to use each material for what it contributes to the artwork.

What if my piece needs attention?

inSync pieces are supported by Lifetime Care. If your jewellery ever needs attention, please get in touch with your order details and a clear photograph so I can assess the best way to care for it.

Frequently asked questions

Is 22ct matt gold plate solid gold?

No. The inSync piece is constructed in stainless steel and finished with 22ct matt gold plate.

Can I shower or swim in gold-plated inSync jewellery?

inSync’s stainless steel and gold plating are designed to withstand showering, swimming and everyday sweat.

Will the matt gold finish change over time?

It can. Plated surfaces are affected by wear, friction, moisture, cosmetics and individual skin chemistry. Care helps preserve the finish.

Why is the finish matt?

The softer surface suits inSync’s sculptural design language. It gives warmth without a highly polished shine competing with the form.

Read next

A few related reads from the Journal.