We’ve got a joke for you…what do you get when a Chanel Classic Flap Bag, Gucci Marmont Bag, YSL Kate Bag, and Dior Lady Bag walk into a bar?
A serious case of tarnished metal!
If you’re scratching your head right now, we won’t fault you, it takes a fellow luxury bag specialist to understand that all these bags have metal hardware that often becomes tarnished over time! In today’s article, we’re taking a deep dive into all things metal! A staple in modern luxury bags!
Many designers today add gold-plated hardware to their bags to add a touch of luxury. However, over time, the gold plating can tarnish, leaving your bag looking worn and dull, defeating its purpose of elevating and giving the bag a more refined look.
Why do leather bags with gold-plated accessories tarnish?
Gold-plated hardware is a thin layer of gold that is electroplated onto a base metal. The base metal is usually made of brass, which can react with the environment and cause the gold plating to tarnish. Factors such as humidity, exposure to air, and contact with substances like perfume or lotion can speed up the tarnishing process.
How can you prevent gold-plated hardware from tarnishing?
To prevent your gold-plated hardware from tarnishing, it’s important to avoid exposing it to moisture and harsh chemicals. Avoid wearing your leather bag in the rain, and keep it away from sources of humidity like bathrooms or kitchens. When not in use, store your leather bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. We also recommend not excessively touching the metal hardware with your fingers too much as our skin contains oil!
How can Honest Crafters help with gold re-plating services?
If your leather bag’s gold-plated hardware has started to tarnish, don't worry. We offer gold re-plating services to restore your hardware to its former glory. Our team of experienced artisans uses high-quality materials to remove the old plating and apply a new layer of gold to your hardware.
In addition to gold re-plating, we also offer a wide range of bag restoration and repair services to keep your leather bags looking and functioning their best. Several popular services include bag cleaning, restoration, and repair services for leather bags, and we can also replace hardware such as zippers and straps!
In conclusion, gold-plated hardware is a beautiful addition to leather bags, but it can tarnish over time. To prevent your hardware from tarnishing, it’s important to take good care of your leather bag and avoid exposing it to moisture and harsh chemicals. If your hardware does start to tarnish, we can help with gold re-plating and hardware replacement services. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you restore your leather bag to its former glory.