Have you ever noticed your precious gold or silver jewellery turning black or tarnished? This is a common concern among jewellery owners, and understanding why it happens can help you maintain your pieces better.
For Silver Jewellery:
Silver tarnishes when it reacts with sulfur compounds in the air, forming silver sulfide. This creates a dark layer on the surface. Factors that accelerate tarnishing include:
- Humidity: High moisture levels increase tarnishing
- Air pollution: Industrial areas have more sulfur compounds
- Chemicals: Perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products can cause reactions
- Storage: Exposure to air without proper protection
For Gold Jewellery:
Pure gold (24k) doesn't tarnish, but lower karat gold (22k, 18k, 14k) contains other metals like copper, silver, or zinc that can oxidize and cause discoloration. The blackening occurs because:
- Alloy metals: Copper and silver in the alloy can tarnish
- Chemical reactions: Contact with cosmetics, sweat, or chemicals
- Oxidation: Metals in the alloy react with oxygen over time
Prevention Tips:
- Store jewellery in airtight containers or anti-tarnish bags
- Clean regularly with a soft cloth
- Remove jewellery before swimming, showering, or applying cosmetics
- Use professional cleaning services periodically