The short answer: gold cutlery is chosen by three details on the sheet: the base material, the number of pieces and whether it is dishwasher safe. A 16-piece set equals four place settings for four diners; for six people you need about 24. And it is cared for like any fine metallic finish: gentle washing and drying straight away, unless the sheet says it withstands the machine.
What to look at before buying
Gold is a finish, not a material. Underneath there is a base, in these sheets stainless steel where stated, and how it ages depends on that. The process used to apply the gold also affects how long it lasts, but none of the shop's cutlery sheets names it, so we do not claim it.
What the sheets do give is the finish and, in some cases, the type of handle, which changes the result on the table a great deal.
| Cutlery | Finish | Material and handle (according to the sheet) | Pieces and dishwasher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | Gold colour, subtle reflection | Soft, ergonomic lines | The sheet does not state pieces or dishwasher use |
| Golden Hour | Copper, sunset tone | Slender lines, subtle shine | The sheet does not state pieces or dishwasher use |
| Jaipur | Gold | Stainless steel, white mother-of-pearl handles | 16 pieces |
| Royale | Gold | Stainless steel, textured handles | 16 pieces |
| Savia | Steel shine | Stainless steel, natural wood-tone handles | 16 pieces for four diners; dishwasher safe |
Savia is not gold, but it is the only one on this list whose sheet says it can go in the dishwasher, and it serves as a reference: if you want that convenience and a warm touch, you get it in the wood. For the others, the sheet says nothing about the machine, so wash them by hand until you have confirmed it with us.
How to care for it so it keeps its tone
These are general guidelines for metal with a gold finish, not manufacturer instructions. Wash by hand with lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid scourers and abrasive products, which wear away the thin layer. Dry straight away with a soft cloth: water and the salt in food are what tarnish it most. Store the pieces so they do not rub against each other. And clean the mother-of-pearl or wood of the handles with a barely damp cloth, without leaving them to soak.
Zaida sums it up in her own words: “When it comes to maintenance, I am very practical.” Cutlery that you use every day and wash in a minute is better cared for than cutlery kept in a drawer for fear of spoiling it.
What to combine it with
Gold calls for a neutral background. On a white set such as the Orla Dinnerware Set, in glazed porcelain with a fine black rim, the metal reads as a detail of light rather than an ornament. With glass, it blends well with the Blush Wine Glass in faceted pink. The Noir Steel Cutlery Set, in a dark silver finish, works better on another table: do not mix gold and dark silver in the same place setting.
An example: the Christmas table
A Christmas lunch for six at the Livia Dining Table, 180 × 90 cm, which seats 6 people comfortably. 26.5 cm Orla dinner plates, Gold cutlery on each side, Blush glasses and, in the centre, the Évora Candlesticks in gold metal on travertine. The gold is repeated in three places: cutlery, candlesticks and the candles. Any more than that overloads the table.
Limits
A fine gold finish is not for someone who puts everything in the dishwasher without looking. If daily use is intensive, plain steel cutlery may suit you better, keeping the gold for occasions. And remember the sums: 16 pieces are enough for four; with six diners you will need to add a second set or stagger the courses.
Next step
See cutlery, dinnerware and glassware together in Dressing the Table. If you would like us to prepare the whole Christmas table, write to our interior design studio.
Frequently asked questions
What is gold cutlery and what is it made of?
It is cutlery with a gold finish over a metal base. In the shop, Jaipur and Royale are stainless steel with a gold finish.
Can gold cutlery go in the dishwasher?
Only if the sheet says so. Among the shop's cutlery, only the Savia sheet states that it is dishwasher safe; for the others, wash by hand.
Is there matt gold cutlery?
The sheets speak of a subtle shine, not a matt finish. If you are looking for a less shiny metal, ask us.
How do you combine gold cutlery on the table?
With white dinnerware, clear or pink glass, and just one more point of gold, such as candlesticks.
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By Zaida Muñoz, interior designer at Zach & Decor · Updated 16/10/2026