Can gold tarnish? Everything you need to know

Gold tarnishing is a common question among jewelry wearers and investors. Gold itself is a precious metal that does not oxidize easily, but when incorporated into jewelry, tarnishing can occur through contact with other metals. At The Silver Mountain, we often provide advice on how to prevent this. The tarnishing is often the result of the addition of alloys such as copper or silver, which are used to make the gold harder and more durable.
 

Why doesn't pure gold discolour?

Pure gold, or 24-carat gold, contains no other metals and is therefore resistant to oxidation and discolouration. This makes pure gold ideal for investments and special jewellery, although it is less suitable for everyday use due to its softness. Therefore, jewellery is usually made of 14- or 18-carat gold, which also contains other metals. These additions make the gold firmer, but also more susceptible to external influences, such as moisture, perfume and sweat.
 

The role of alloys in the discolouration of gold

Most gold jewellery is a mix of gold with other metals such as copper, silver or nickel. These alloys enhance the gold and provide different colours such as rose gold or white gold. However, the presence of these metals can cause your gold jewellery to discolour over time, especially with prolonged exposure to air, water, or chemicals. This is why rose gold jewellery sometimes darkens, and white gold can lose its luster over time.
 

Influence of environmental factors on gold

Daily wear, perspiration, exposure to cosmetics or even seawater can cause your gold jewellery to lose its original colour. The acidity of your skin also plays a role in the degree of discolouration. Make sure not to wear your jewellery while exercising, showering, or sleeping to protect it from external influences. Storing your jewellery properly in a dry environment helps to reduce discolouration.
 

How can you prevent discolouration of gold?

Regular maintenance is the key to letting your gold jewellery keep its shine. Gently clean your jewellery with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh cleaning agents and keep your jewellery separate from other jewellery to avoid scratches and damage. In case of persistent discolouration, it is wise to have your jewellery professionally cleaned.
 

What to do if your gold does discolour?

Should you find that your gold jewellery does discolour, you can try cleaning it yourself with lukewarm water and a mild soap. If this doesn't work, take them to a jeweller for a professional cleaning. This will give your jewellery back its luster without damaging the gold.
 

The difference between yellow gold, white gold and rose gold

Each type of gold has unique properties. Yellow gold is the least prone to discolouration due to its high percentage of pure gold. White gold contains nickel and is often coated with rhodium, which can wear off over time. Rose gold gets its colour from copper and is therefore more susceptible to oxidation. By understanding how these alloys work, you can better determine how to care for your jewellery.
 

Need advice? Get in touch!

Want to know more about gold and how to keep your jewellery in top condition? Feel free to contact the experts at The Silver Mountain for personal advice on maintaining your gold jewellery.