What Causes Gold Jewellery to Turn Black?
Have you ever noticed your gold jewellery turning black? The cause of this discolouration is relatively common and could be caused by several different things. In this blog post, we will discuss why gold jewellery turns black and how to prevent discolouration in the future.
There are two primary causes of gold jewellery turning black. The first is oxidation, which occurs when external agents such as air, water, and skin contact interact with the metal over time. This reaction causes a thin layer of tarnish on the gold’s surface, which appears dark. You may notice that some areas of your jewellery are more tarnished than others because those areas are more exposed to air and other elements.
The second common cause of discolouration is due to chemicals found in soaps, lotions, perfumes, and other beauty products. These chemicals can cause reactions with the gold alloy in your jewellery that result in it changing colour. To prevent this, removing your jewellery before getting ready or taking a shower is advisable to avoid any contact with these chemicals.
To keep your gold looking its best for extended periods, it’s essential to regularly clean it using a mild soap or cleaning solution specifically designed for precious metals. It’s also necessary to store your jewellery away from harsh elements such as direct sunlight or extreme temperatures; these can also lead to tarnishing faster than usual. Additionally, applying a protective coating such as rhodium plating can help protect against tarnishing and keep your pieces looking brand new for extended periods!
Frequently asked questions
Why does gold jewellery tarnish and turn black over time?
Gold jewellery turns black primarily due to a natural process called oxidation, which occurs when the metal reacts with external agents. Over time, continuous exposure to air, moisture, and even direct contact with your skin causes a chemical reaction on the surface of the gold. This reaction creates a very thin, dark layer of tarnish, which makes your jewellery look black or discoloured.
You might notice that certain parts of a piece of jewellery turn black faster or more intensely than others. This variation happens because those specific areas are more exposed to the elements or experience more friction and contact. While pure gold is highly resistant to tarnishing, most jewellery is made from gold alloys containing other metals. It is actually these base metals within the alloy that react with the environment, leading to the gradual discolouration you see on your favourite pieces.
How do everyday beauty products affect gold jewellery?
Everyday beauty products such as soaps, body lotions, perfumes, and cosmetics are a major cause of gold jewellery turning black. These items contain various chemicals that can cause a harsh reaction when they come into contact with the gold alloys used to make your jewellery. This chemical reaction alters the surface appearance of the metal, leading to rapid discolouration and dark spots.
To prevent this damage, it is highly advisable to make changes to your daily routine. Always remove your jewellery before you begin getting ready in the morning, applying makeup, spraying perfume, or taking a shower. By ensuring that your jewellery is the very last thing you put on before leaving the house, you can significantly reduce its exposure to these harmful cosmetic chemicals and keep your precious items looking bright and beautiful for much longer.
What is the best way to clean discoloured gold jewellery?
To keep your gold jewellery looking its best and to remove any black tarnish, you should establish a regular cleaning routine. The most effective method is to wash your items gently using a mild soap or a specialised cleaning solution that has been specifically formulated for precious metals. This helps to safely lift away the dark tarnish without scratching or damaging the delicate metal underneath.
When cleaning, avoid using harsh abrasive household cleaners, as these can cause permanent damage to the gold alloy. Instead, use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the pieces after washing them. Regularly cleaning your jewellery in this gentle manner ensures that oils, sweat, and environmental residues do not build up on the surface. Taking these simple maintenance steps will successfully prevent the rapid onset of discolouration and help preserve the original, brilliant shine of your gold pieces for many years.
How should I store my gold jewellery to prevent it from tarnishing?
Proper storage is essential if you want to prevent your gold jewellery from turning black and losing its original lustre. To protect your pieces, you must store them completely away from harsh environmental elements. Direct sunlight and extreme temperatures are particularly damaging, as they can accelerate the chemical reactions that lead to rapid tarnishing on the surface of gold alloys.
It is best to keep your jewellery in a cool, dry, and dark place when you are not wearing it. Using a dedicated jewellery box with a soft fabric lining, or individual soft pouches, is highly recommended. This setup not only shields your items from damaging light and temperature fluctuations but also prevents them from coming into contact with ambient moisture in the air. Taking the time to store your jewellery correctly will significantly extend the period between required cleanings.
Can a professional coating stop gold jewellery from turning black?
Applying a professional protective coating is a highly effective way to prevent your gold jewellery from turning black. A popular and reliable option is rhodium plating, which involves coating your gold items in a thin layer of rhodium, a precious metal from the platinum family. This protective barrier completely shields the underlying gold alloy from direct contact with air, moisture, skin oils, and cosmetics.
By preventing these external elements from interacting with the metal, the plating successfully stops the oxidation process that causes black tarnish to form. Consequently, your jewellery will maintain its brilliant shine and look brand new for significantly longer periods. Over time, this protective plating may gradually wear off with regular use, but it can easily be reapplied by a professional jeweller to ensure your precious pieces remain fully protected against discolouration and wear.
