Education

Does solid gold tarnish?

Pure gold does not tarnish at all. It does not react with oxygen or moisture, which is why ancient gold coins still look gold after centuries underground.

Solid gold jewellery is alloyed with other metals (copper, silver, zinc) for strength, and those alloys can react to chemicals over time, which is what people sometimes call tarnish. In practice, a solid 14k or 18k ring kept in normal conditions will not visibly tarnish. It may pick up surface oils, soap residue or skin care product buildup that dulls the finish, but a soft cloth and warm soapy water restores it.

Heavy chlorine, bleach or harsh chemicals can damage the alloy and dull the colour over years, so removing rings for cleaning, hot tubs and swimming pools helps. Gold plated jewellery does tarnish noticeably as the plating wears, because the base metal underneath oxidises.

Read more: everyday necklaces collection.

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