Does 18k Gold Tarnish
No, 18k gold does not tarnish easily. It will take at least 2 to 3 years of regular usage to bring some noticeable effects of tarnishing. But If you have a 18k gold jewelry which has tarnished quicker than that, then it is surely not 18k gold but a lower karat gold like 14k or even 10k.
In this article we’ll answer all the questions like does 18k gold tarnish, does 18k yellow gold tarnish, what if your 18k gold jewelry has tarnished and exact steps you need to take to avoid tarnishing or other damages which can take place.
18K Gold Meaning
18k or 18 karat gold is a popular form of gold alloy used in jewelry making. It consists of 75% pure gold and 25% other metals, which are added to increase its durability, strength, and sometimes to change its color. The term “18k” refers to the 18 parts of pure gold out of a total of 24 parts.
These different colors of gold can be yellow gold, rose gold, white gold or even black gold.
The specific combination of metals in the alloy can influence both the color and the properties of 18k gold. For example, more copper can give 18K gold a warmer, reddish hue (as in rose gold), while metals like palladium or platinum can create white gold.
Does 18K Gold Tarnish
No. 18K gold does not tarnish under normal conditions. As 75% of the 18k gold is pure gold, other metals’ content is not that big to bring in the effect of tarnishing.
How Long Will it Take to Tarnish
It must be noted here that any type of gold made in 18k purity level will not tarnish easily. It will take at least 2 to 3 years of regular usage before it can develop any noticeable tarnishing. However, regular cleaning of the jewelry will be required.
If your 18k gold jewelry tarnishes before this time, it is probably made in lower karat gold than 18k or is some cheaper variant with a base metal like silver.
This can be done in case of gold filled or gold vermeil.
Does 18k Yellow Gold Tarnish
No. 18k yellow gold does not tarnish. Whether it is yellow gold, white gold or any other type of gold, 18k gold should not tarnish easily.
Factors Which can Cause Tarnishing in 18K Gold
Several environmental and external factors can influence whether or how quickly 18k gold tarnishes. These include:
1. Exposure to Moisture and Humidity
Humidity, especially saltwater, can affect the alloy metals in 18K gold, leading to tarnish. Avoid water contact at all costs.
2. Chemicals and Cleaning Products
Chlorine, bleach, perfumes, and other chemicals can react with the alloys in 18K gold, accelerating tarnish. Apart, lotions can react too. Its better to avoid these cosmetic items after wearing jewelry. Always wear your jewelry after applying these things.
3. Sweat and Skin Oils
Human skin naturally secretes oils and sweat, which can interact with the alloys in 18K gold and lead to tarnishing over time.
4. Air Pollution
High sulfur or oxygen levels in polluted air can cause tarnish on gold that contains reactive metals like copper or zinc.
5. Storage Conditions
Poor storage, such as leaving gold in a humid or exposed environment such as washroom, can lead to tarnishing. Buy a proper storage box for it.
How to Prevent 18K Gold from Tarnishing
To maintain the beauty of your 18k gold jewelry, taking preventive measures is essential. While 18K gold is more resistant to tarnish than lower-karat gold, it’s still important to follow best practices to ensure it stays in top condition.
1. Store Gold Properly
Always store your 18k gold jewelry in a dry, cool place. Use soft pouches or jewelry boxes lined with fabric to minimize exposure to air and moisture.
2. Avoid Chemicals
Remove your jewelry before using harsh cleaning products or swimming in chlorinated pools. Perfumes and lotions should also be applied before putting on your jewelry.
3. Clean Regularly
Use a soft cloth to wipe down your 18K gold jewelry after each wear. This helps remove any skin oils, sweat, or dirt that could lead to tarnish.
4. Polishing
Consider professional polishing if you notice any dullness or tarnish starting to form. This can restore your jewelry to its original shine.
5. Coating for Protection
Some people choose to coat their 18K gold jewelry with protective substances, such as rhodium plating, to increase resistance to tarnishing.
How 18k Gold is Different from other Gold Alloys
As we know now that 24k or pure gold is a soft metal itself. It can’t be used in jewelry making or in processes involving molding, bending etc. as it can’t retain its shape. That’s why we have so many purity levels of gold so every one can enjoy gold jewelry as per their own needs. Popular gold purity levels used in jewelry making are:
- 20 karat
- 18 karat
- 14 karat
- 10 karat
The bigger karat a gold jewelry will be in, the more purer and tarnishing proof it will be. On the other hand, it will also be more prone to scratches as well.
Gold jewelries made in lower karat are less purer and are best for those looking for affordable options.
FAQs about 18k Gold Tarnishing
Here are some common FAQ’s about 18k gold tarnishing.
1. Does 18k gold tarnish over time?
Yes, 18K gold can tarnish, but it is highly resistant to tarnishing compared to lower-karat gold due to its high gold content (75%).
2. Does 18K Gold Turn Green
18k gold does not turn green under normal conditions. But under severe conditions it can turn skin green.
3. Does 18k Gold Tarnish in water
Yes, 18k gold does tarnish in water. Though this effect will not be immediate but will take time.
4. Will 18k gold Fade?
No. 18k gold does not fade as it is the natural color of it. Color is only faded with low purity gold jewelry i.e. 10k or gold plated jewelry.
Should You Use 18K Gold
18K gold is one of the premium gold alloys you can use. Normally it is used when budget is not an issue. When you are one of those, then 18k is an excellent choice. Otherwise you can go for 18k gold plating which will cost much less. Apart from this, you should always be aware of the pros and cons associated with 18k gold.