How To Stop My Jewellery From Tarnishing?
Jewellery has always been an essential part of fashion, and we take immense pride in buying it, wearing it, and flaunting it. But, the constant fear of tarnishing hangs over us, especially when it comes to our delicate ornaments. The good news is that tarnishing is not the end of the world, and there are various ways to handle it. In this blog post, we focus on how to prevent the tarnishing of your precious jewellery.
Burren Jewellery, 'Tomorrow Has Never Been Touched'
Avoid Exposure to Moisture:
Moisture is the primary culprit behind the tarnishing of jewellery. Tarnish is a darkening or discoloration that occurs on the surface of metals, diminishing their shine and aesthetic appeal. Moisture can compromise the integrity of metal plating on jewellery, such as gold or rhodium plating. Continuous exposure to moisture may cause the plating to wear off, revealing the underlying base metal and altering the jewellery's appearance. Engaging in intense physical activities or exercise can lead to increased perspiration, sweat contains elements that may contribute to tarnishing. To keep your jewellery safe from moisture, store it in dry and cool places. Avoid wearing your jewellery while taking a bath, swimming or any water-related activities. Consider placing a silica gel packet in the jewellery box to take in any moisture present.
Keep Away from Chemicals:
Chemicals are one of the most significant reasons for jewellery tarnishing. Perfumes, lotions, and household cleaning chemicals contain acidic substances that irritate the jewellery. Avoid spraying perfumes and lotions directly on your ornaments, allow them to dry before you wear your jewellery. Take off your jewellery before doing household activities that involve cleaning chemicals or being exposed to harsh chemicals. Certain chemicals can cause irreversible damage to jewellery, impacting its long-term value and beauty.
Burren Jewellery, 'Winter Morn' Ring
Store Separately:
Storing jewellery separately has several advantages. It prevents scratching of one ornament over the other and keeps them apart to avoid tangling. Different metals in various pieces of jewellery can interact with each other, leading to tarnishing. For example, storing silver and gold jewelry together can result in a chemical reaction that accelerates tarnish formation on the silver. Never store your jewellery in a heap in a box or drawer, as it again increases the chance of tangling. Tangled jewellery may experience increased exposure to air and moisture, which are key factors in tarnish formation. By storing jewellery separately, you create an environment that minimizes the risk of damage and other forms of degradation.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
Regular cleaning helps maintain the original sparkle and shine of your jewellery. Over time, exposure to environmental factors, skin oils, and everyday wear can lead to a buildup of dirt and grime, dulling the brilliance of gemstones and metals. Well-maintained jewellery often retains its market value better than neglected pieces.
You can use various techniques to clean your jewellery, such as using a polishing cloth or mild soap and warm water.
- Prepare a mild cleaning solution using warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap.
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the surface of the jewelry.
- Use a gentle brush to clean intricate details, if necessary.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove soap residue.
However, before using any soap, ensure that it's mild and won't cause any damage. Do not soak your jewellery in water as it can lead to rusting and damage. Consider seeking professional help when in doubt.
Tarnishing of jewellery is a common issue that we often face, but it's not the end of the world. The above tips can help you prevent your jewellery from tarnishing and keep them as good as new. Remember, being proactive is the key to dealing with jewellery tarnishing, be mindful of the tips mentioned above, and enjoy wearing your jewellery without any worries.