Does Gold Tarnish?

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Gold, often hailed as the “king of metals,” has enthralled humanity for centuries, symbolizing opulence, wealth and enduring beauty. But people often wonder, does gold tarnish? In its purest form, 24-karat gold is a non-reactive metal that defies the corrosive effects of time, maintaining a radiant glow. However, alloys with other metals can invite tarnish. The lower the karat, the more susceptible a piece of gold jewelry is to tarnish. 

Whether you are shopping for gold engagement rings or simply wondering whether gold tarnishes and how you can keep your jewelry looking incredible for years, keep reading to learn more about this luxurious metal and how to properly care for it. 

Pure Gold: The Untarnishable King of Metals

In its purest form, 24-karat gold is a testament to untarnishable brilliance. Its non-reactive nature makes it highly resistant to tarnishing, ensuring it retains its radiant glow for decades. The inherent chemical properties of pure gold contribute to its resilience, making it a favored choice for crafting timeless pieces that endure the test of time. 

Throughout history, 24-karat gold has been revered for its enduring beauty. From the glittering treasures of ancient Egypt to the exquisite artifacts unearthed in archaeological digs spanning the globe, pure gold has served as a testament to the artistry and cultural value of past civilizations.

Even today, 24-karat gold remains a symbol of luxury, value and permanence. It is the preferred choice for crafting precious heirloom jewelry that will be passed down through generations, ensuring that its radiant beauty continues to captivate hearts and inspire awe.

Alloys: When Gold Meets Other Metals

Most gold jewelry isn’t 24 karats because pure gold is extremely malleable and easy to damage. To combat this, gold is often alloyed with metals like copper, silver and nickel to improve durability and longevity. While these alloys impart strength, though, they also introduce a degree of reactivity. 

The culprit behind this transformation is a chemical reaction between the metals in the alloy and environmental elements. Lower karats, which contain a higher percentage of other metals, are more prone to tarnishing. This manifests as a subtle change in hue, a dulling of the surface or even a darker discoloration. Humidity, pollution and even your skin can accelerate this process. Sweat, lotions and cosmetics can leave behind residues that react with the metal, while airborne pollutants like sulfur can also contribute to tarnishing.

Understanding these factors is key to preserving your gold jewelry’s beauty. Taking proper precautions, like storing it in a dry place and cleaning it regularly with gentle methods, prevents tarnishing and keeps your precious pieces shining bright.

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Keeping Your Gold Jewelry Gleaming

Keeping your gold jewelry looking its best requires proactive measures. Store it properly, and keep it away from humidity and chemicals as much as possible. Regular cleaning, using mild solutions and soft cloths, helps mitigate the effects of tarnishing, too. In addition to regularly cleaning your jewelry at home, consider having it professionally cleaned once in a while to remove all traces of tarnish and keep it looking like new. 

Restoring Tarnished Gold

If you have gold jewelry that’s lost its luster due to tarnishing, don’t despair! Tarnished gold can be restored to some extent through various cleaning methods. These methods can effectively remove tarnish, restoring the metal’s original luster and brilliance. However, it’s important to note that the degree of restoration may vary depending on factors such as the tarnish's severity, the gold's karat and the specific cleaning method used. 

While cleaning and restoration techniques can significantly improve the appearance of tarnished gold, getting jewelry back to its original state isn’t always possible. Because of this, preventing tarnish is a better option than trying to remove it. Preventive care, including proper storage, regular cleaning and avoiding harsh chemicals, remains crucial in maintaining gold jewelry’s long-term beauty and value. 

Fortunately, all of our gold rings are plated in rhodium, meaning you don’t have to worry about your jewelry tarnishing or turning your finger green. If you’d like specific directions on how to clean gold-plated jewelry, our helpful blog has all the steps you need. 

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Conclusion

While pure gold’s inherent resistance to tarnish makes it a symbol of enduring beauty, most jewelry utilizes alloys for strength and affordability. These alloys are susceptible to tarnishing, but understanding the process and implementing proper care can easily prevent it. Embrace gentle cleaning and mindful storage to maintain the timeless charm of your gold pieces. Remember — even with the possibility of tarnishing, gold’s enduring allure remains undeniable, its warm sheen and rich history continuing to captivate hearts across cultures and generations.