​18k gold plating on earrings typically involves a thin layer of 18k gold color applied over a base metal (copper), offering a luxurious look at a more affordable price. This plating can enhance the earrings' aesthetic and provide a warm, rich color resembling solid gold color. However, due to the nature of plating, these earrings may require special care to maintain their appearance, as the gold layer color can wear off over time, especially with frequent wear or exposure to moisture and chemicals.