Keeping your gold jewelry looking its best and preventing it from "turning" involves simple care and smart storage practices. The exact way gold jewelry might appear to "turn" depends on whether it is solid gold, gold-filled, or gold-plated, as well as its karat value, but preventative steps can help maintain its luster.
Pure gold (24K) is highly resistant to tarnish, which is a chemical reaction that discolors metal. However, jewelry is typically made from gold alloys (like 10K, 14K, 18K) mixed with other metals (copper, silver, zinc) for durability. These base metals can react with air, moisture, sweat, chemicals, or cosmetics, leading to tarnishing or corrosion, which makes the gold appear dull or discolored.
Gold plating is a thin layer of gold over a base metal. It is particularly susceptible to turning or corroding if the plating wears off or the base metal reacts with elements.
Essential Tips for Preventing Turning
Here are key ways to keep your gold jewelry from losing its shine and color:
Proper Storage
How and where you store your gold jewelry is crucial for preventing unwanted reactions and damage.
- Keep it Dry and Cool: Moisture and humidity are primary culprits for tarnishing and corrosion, especially for gold-plated items. As recommended for gold plating jewelry: "Store your gold plating jewelry in a dry and cool place, such as a jewellery box, Tupperware, or a cotton bag will help keep moisture or air from corroding the gold plating." This principle applies to all types of gold jewelry.
- Avoid Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade or damage metals over time.
- Store Separately: Prevent scratches and tangling by storing jewelry pieces individually or in compartments. The reference also advises: "Avoid storing your gold pieces... with other components that may scratch or damage the plating."
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Substances
Exposure to certain everyday products and chemicals can accelerate the tarnishing or corrosion process.
- Cosmetics & Perfumes: Apply lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, and makeup before putting on your jewelry.
- Cleaning Products: Remove gold jewelry before using household cleaners, as chemicals like bleach and ammonia are highly corrosive to gold alloys.
- Water & Sweat: While brief exposure to water is generally fine for solid gold, prolonged exposure, especially to chlorinated or saltwater, can damage alloys and is particularly bad for plating. Excessive sweat can also react with metals. Remove jewelry before swimming, showering, or exercising.
Regular Cleaning
Gently cleaning your gold jewelry removes the buildup of oils, dirt, and residues that can make it look dull or "turned."
- Mild Soap & Water: Use a soft cloth or brush with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Jewelry Cleaners: For stubborn grime, consider a cleaner specifically designed for gold, but use caution, especially with plated items or pieces with porous gemstones.
Handle with Care
Physical damage can also affect the appearance of gold jewelry. Scratches can make it look dull, and bending can weaken settings or damage plating.
- Be mindful while wearing; remove jewelry before engaging in activities where it could be scratched or snagged.
By following these simple care tips, particularly focusing on proper storage in dry conditions and avoiding chemical exposure, you can significantly reduce the chances of your gold jewelry turning and keep it sparkling for years to come.
| Action | Benefit | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Proper Storage | Prevents corrosion, tarnish, & scratches | All Gold Jewelry |
| Avoid Chemicals | Protects metal alloys & plating integrity | All Gold Jewelry |
| Regular Cleaning | Removes dulling residues & buildup | All Gold Jewelry |
| Careful Handling | Minimizes physical damage & wear | All Gold Jewelry |
