Does Real Gold Tarnish: Truth surrounding Tarnish & Durability

• Uncover the reality about gold’s durability and its ability to tarnish.
• Learn about different types of gold jewelry and their potential to tarnish.
• Discover how various factors may contribute to the tarnishing of gold ornaments.
• Gain insights into care practices to maintain your gold jewelry’s brightness.
• Understand Accurate Jewelry’s exchange policy and how we value your satisfaction.

Gold jewelry has always been the epitome of elegance and sophistication. The glimmering yellow hue of gold has captivated us for centuries, and still today, it continues to be the go-to choice for fine jewelry. But often, one question that lingers in the minds of many is, “Does real gold tarnish?” In this immersive read, we unfold the truth, dissecting the factors that affect the tarnishing of gold and how different types of gold jewelry withstand wear and tear.

At Accurate Jewelry, we believe in delivering nothing short of the best. Therefore, it is our aim to enlighten you about the durability and tarnish resistance of the precious gold pieces that you love and own. With this knowledge, not only can you make an informed choice when purchasing, but you can also effectively maintain your gold pieces to shine for generations to come.

Gold’s Tarnish-resistance: The Real Story

One of the most prevalent myths about gold is that it tarnishes. The truth, however, is that pure gold doesn’t tarnish. Pure gold, also known as solid gold or 24 karat gold, is chemically inert and doesn’t react with oxygen or sulfur – the elements responsible for tarnish. Nevertheless, pure gold is very soft and highly malleable, which makes it less suitable for everyday wear and tear. For this reason, gold is usually mixed with other metals to form a durable alloy suitable for fine jewelry.

Types of Gold: Unravelling Tarnish Behaviour

When we speak about gold jewelry, there are different types, such as solid gold, gold-filled, gold-plated, and vermeil jewelry. All of these types have varying amounts of gold and are mixed with other metals for durability. Depending on the type of gold and the metal it’s mixed with, some gold pieces may tarnish over time. For instance, white gold, which is mixed with nickel or palladium, can develop yellowish hues over time and needs a rhodium plate to maintain its silvery sheen.

Understanding the Durability of Gold

The durability of gold jewelry depends on the karat weight, which indicates the amount of pure gold present in the piece. 24 karat gold is pure gold, while 18 karat gold contains 75% gold and 25% other metals. 14 karat gold has 58.3% gold, and so on. The higher the karat, the softer the gold, making it susceptible to scratches and dents. Lower karat gold (like 10k or 14k) might be more resistant to wear and tear due to the higher percentage of harder alloy metals. However, note that lower karat gold is also more likely to tarnish over time.

Gold-Filled Jewelry: A Tarnish-free Alternative

If you’re concerned about tarnishing, gold-filled jewelry is an excellent option. It is created by bonding a thick layer of gold to a base metal using heat and pressure. Gold-filled jewelry contains a higher percentage of gold compared to gold-plated jewelry, making it more resistant to tarnish. It’s also an affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry, making it a popular choice for many jewelry enthusiasts.

Factors that Contribute to Tarnish: The Major Culprits

Several factors can contribute to tarnishing in gold jewelry. These include exposure to chemicals (like chlorine, bleach), humidity, body oils, and even certain medications or food items. The type of metal mixed with gold also plays a significant role. For instance, copper, which is commonly used in gold alloys, can oxidize and cause tarnish. Proper storage and regular cleaning can help keep your gold jewelry looking its best.

Gold Vermeil Jewelry: A Golden Middle Ground

Gold vermeil jewelry is another viable option for those who want the look of solid gold without the hefty price tag. Vermeil is made of sterling silver coated with a thick layer of gold. It’s more durable than gold-plated jewelry and less likely to tarnish, provided it is kept away from water and harsh chemicals. The thickness of the gold layer also contributes to the piece’s durability and resistance to tarnish.

Preserving Your Gold Jewelry’s Luster

Even though some types of gold jewelry might tarnish over time, proper care and cleaning can prevent this. Avoid wearing your gold pieces when dealing with harsh chemicals or swimming in chlorinated water. Keep your jewelry pieces in individual soft cloth pouches in a cool, dry place to prevent scratches and exposure to moisture. Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water can also help maintain your jewelry’s shine.

Trust in Accurate Jewelry: Your Fine Jewelry Solution

At Accurate Jewelry, we take pride in offering top-quality estate gold pieces that endure. Our commitment to authenticity and customer satisfaction is reflected in our 30-day warranty exchange policy. If an item purchased from us does not satisfy you, we provide store credit which can be spent on our online store, upon the return of the item. However, please note that we need to receive the item back within 30 days from the original purchase date. At Accurate Jewelry, you can always count on us for exceptional services and unmatched quality.

Gold Durability and Tarnish – The Final Word

While it’s true that the purity of gold affects its durability and its potential to tarnish, with the right knowledge and care, your gold jewelry can continue to shine for years. Whether it’s solid gold, 18k, gold-filled, or gold vermeil, each type of gold jewelry has its unique allure and purposes. At the end of the day, the choice of jewelry depends on your preference, budget, and lifestyle. Remember, with any piece of gold jewelry you choose, trust in its quality, and cherish its beauty– after all, it’s not just an ornament, but a reflection of your style and personality. Accurate Jewelry is here for all your jewelry needs!

Frequently Asked Questions~

Does real gold tarnish?

Real gold does not tarnish. Gold is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Unlike other metals, gold does not react with oxygen or moisture in the air, so it does not develop tarnish over time.

What about gold jewelry?

Gold jewelry, whether it’s white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold, is made of real gold. Since gold is a soft metal, it is often mixed with other metals to make it more durable for use in jewelry. However, these additional metals can react with oxygen or moisture and may cause some discoloration or tarnish to the jewelry over time.

What is the difference between pure gold and solid gold?

Pure gold, also known as 24-karat gold, is considered the highest quality of gold as it contains 99.9% gold. It is naturally soft and can be easily scratched or deformed. Solid gold, on the other hand, refers to gold jewelry or items that are made completely of gold, but may not be pure gold. Solid gold jewelry is usually made with lower karat gold, such as 18k or 14k, which contains a higher percentage of other metals for added durability.

What is gold plating?

Gold plating is a process where a thin layer of gold is deposited onto the surface of another metal. This is often done to enhance the appearance of jewelry or other items. However, the gold layer in gold-plated jewelry is quite thin and can wear off over time, exposing the base metal underneath. This may cause the jewelry to tarnish or lose its luster.

What is gold-filled jewelry?

Gold-filled jewelry consists of a layer of gold bonded to a base metal core. The gold layer in gold-filled jewelry is thicker than in gold-plated jewelry, making it more durable and resistant to tarnish. It is a more affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry.

Is gold durable for everyday wear and tear?

While gold is a relatively durable metal, it is still prone to wear and tear, especially if worn daily. Over time, gold jewelry can develop scratches, dents, or lose its shine. However, regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep gold jewelry looking its best.

Can gold be mixed with other metals?

Yes, gold can be mixed with other metals to create alloys. These alloys are created to enhance the durability, strength, or color of the gold. For example, white gold is made by mixing gold with white metals such as nickel, palladium, or zinc. Rose gold is created by adding copper to gold. The specific combination of metals