Why Jewellery Tarnishes and How to Prevent It

Jewellery has a way of capturing moments whether it’s a gift, a symbol of love, or a piece that simply feels like you. But over time, you may notice your favourite silver ring or gold necklace starting to lose its shine. The good news? Tarnish is natural, preventable, and often reversible. Let’s take a closer look at why it happens and what you can do to keep your pieces looking radiant.

What Is Tarnish?

Tarnish is a thin layer of corrosion that forms on the surface of metals when they react with elements in the air or on the skin. Unlike rust, which damages iron and steel, tarnish is usually just a surface reaction it doesn’t destroy the metal underneath. You can think of it as the metal’s natural defense mechanism against its environment.

Why Jewellery Tarnishes

1. Exposure to Air and Moisture

Most metals react with oxygen and humidity. When silver, for example, comes into contact with sulfur compounds in the air, it forms silver sulfide that dark, dull layer we recognize as tarnish. Humid climates or rooms like bathrooms can speed up the process.

2. Contact with Skin Oils and Sweat

Our skin naturally releases oils, acids, and salts that can react with metal surfaces. Sweat, in particular, accelerates tarnish because it contains sodium and lactic acid.

3. Chemicals in Everyday Products

Perfumes, lotions, deodorants, hair sprays, and cleaning agents contain chemicals that can corrode or discolor jewellery. Even something as harmless-seeming as hand sanitizer or sunscreen can dull the finish over time.

4. Storage Conditions

Leaving jewellery exposed to air or storing it in humid environments can cause tarnish to form quickly. Certain materials like wool, rubber, and paper also emit sulfur that can affect silver and gold-plated pieces.

5. Metal Composition

The type of metal matters.

• Sterling silver (925) tarnishes faster than fine silver (999) because it contains copper for strength.
• Brass and bronze can darken as they react with oxygen and moisture.
• Even gold, especially below 18 karats, can tarnish due to the presence of alloys like copper or silver.

How to Prevent Tarnish

1. Keep Jewellery Dry

Always remove your jewellery before showering, swimming, or exercising. Water, chlorine, and sweat can all accelerate tarnishing.

2. Store Properly

Store each piece in an airtight container or anti-tarnish pouch. Adding a small silica gel packet can help absorb moisture. For silver pieces, anti-tarnish strips are especially effective.

3. Avoid Chemical Exposure

Apply perfumes, lotions, and sprays before putting on your jewellery. Let them dry fully to minimize contact with metal surfaces.

4. Regular Cleaning

Gently clean your jewellery with a soft polishing cloth or mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleaners, as they can remove protective coatings or plating layers.

5. Professional Maintenance

For precious or plated pieces, professional cleaning and re-plating can restore brilliance and prolong their life. Many jewellery workshops, including OLKIMOS, offer specialized care and restoration services.

 

A Final Word

Tarnish is simply nature’s chemistry at work. a reminder that your jewellery is crafted from real, living metals. With a little care and awareness, you can slow down the process and preserve your pieces for years to come.

After all, every mark tells a story but a brilliant shine keeps that story timeless.