Our 18K gold plated jewelry contains a layer of real gold over another metal such as brass, bronze, stainless steel, or sterling silver.

Gold plated pieces may be worn while swimming, showering, and working out, however, to prolong the life of your jewelry, it is ALWAYS best to remove them beforehand.

To clean your adornment, you may use warm water, mild detergent, and a soft toothbrush, just be sure not to scrub excessively to preserve the gold plating.

For more information on the specific types of gold plated jewelry offered in the Grotto, CLICK HERE

Bronze jewelry will develop a natural patina over time, giving your piece a beautiful antiqued look.

If you would like to restore the original luster and shine of your piece, you may use the polishing cloth included with your order whenever necessary.

Avoid coming into contact with harsh chemicals such as perfumes, oils, salt water and chlorine.

When exposed to the elements, and depending on the chemical composition of your skin, bronze jewelry may sometimes leave behind a greenish hue. Don’t worry, this is a harmless, natural reaction that occurs when copper comes into contact with oxygen and moisture in the air. In an effort to prevent this reaction, our bronze pieces are coated with a few layers of wax to act as a barrier between the adornment and your skin. This wax does fade over time, but may be re-applied.

To deep clean your pieces, a simple solution of warm water, mild detergent, and a soft toothbrush will do the trick. Be sure to dry your pieces thoroughly after each cleaning.

The chain on this piece is crafted with 14 karat gold-filled metal, which may be worn 24/7*

Gold-filled jewelry consists of a very thick layer of real gold over a base metal, such as brass. The layer is much thicker than the microscopic layers featured in gold plated jewelry, and this layer will last a lifetime with proper care.

Gold-filled jewelry is low maintenance and does not require regular polishing, however you may clean as frequently as you like to remove accumulated dirt and grime

See the PRODUCT CARE page for instructions on how to properly care for your gold-filled pieces

*please note, if your gold-filled jewelry features a stone or crystal, first do your research to make sure the crystal may get wet before you wear it in the shower or swimming.

Pieces specified as MADE TO ORDER begin production within 1 week of ordering, and may take up to 6 weeks for creation, although most pieces  reach completion within 14 business days.

READY TO SHIP items are shipped within three business days, unless resizing is requested.

Orders ship out every FRIDAY, and are shipped via USPS Priority Mail. If you’re crunched for time and need your order sooner, contact us BEFORE placing your order at orders@gildedgrotto.com and we will determine if your rush request can be accommodated.

Please note, chosen shipping method indicates only the METHOD by which your order will ship. For example, a “MADE TO ORDER” item purchased with Priority Express shipping will take up to 14 business days to create, and will then be shipped via Priority Express.

INTERNATIONAL ORDERS

International orders are shipped primarily via USPS FIRST CLASS.

International shipping times may vary, so please allow 2-6 weeks for delivery. Any customs fees or taxes associated with international orders are the responsibility of the buyer. Please research your country’s customs regulations before placing your order, as certain countries restrict the import of jewelry.