Does 14k Gold Plated Tarnish
Yes, 14k gold plated does tarnish if gold plating wears off exposing base metal. This base metal is generally sterling silver or copper which can tarnish with time. It can also turn green if base metal is copper only. But there are ways by which you can decrease this tarnishing. In this article we’ll discuss why does 14k gold plated tarnish and how can you save it from turning green.
Does All Gold Plated Jewelry Tarnish?
Tarnishing of a gold plated jewelry depends on the type of base metal. Whenever gold plating wears off, it exposes the base metal. If base metal is copper, brass or sterling silver, then it will tarnish. But if it is some other metal like stainless steel, then it will not tarnish.
Does Gold Plating Turn Green?
Gold plating can only turn green if base metal is copper or brass. Gold plating never turn green itself. But whenever it wears off from a certain area of a jewelry item, it exposes the base metal. If base metal is copper or brass, then it will get tarnished quickly and turn green.
But if base metal is sterling silver, which is a more common base metal than copper, then it will turn black rather than green.
This process is similar to what happened to the Statue of Liberty, which is made of copper with brownish color. Over time, exposure to air caused it to turn green. In jewelry, this same reaction can also occur.
What Causes Tarnishing of Gold Plated Jewelry?
Gold plating is a process where a very thin layer of gold is applied to the surface of a base metal. This is achieved through electroplating, a method that uses an electric current to bind the gold layer to the base metal. Commonly used base metals include silver, copper, brass, and stainless steel. While the thin layer of gold provides the luxurious appearance of solid gold, the properties of the underlying metal play a significant role in determining how the jewelry behaves over time.
The thickness of the gold layer is typically measured in microns, and the longevity of the plating depends on this thickness. High-quality gold-plated jewelry has a thicker gold layer, making it more durable and less prone to wear. However, it’s important to note that gold plating is not permanent and can wear off with time and use.
Below are the main reasons why this happens:
1. Copper or Brass Base Metals
Many gold-plated jewelry items use copper or brass as the base metal because they are affordable and easy to work with. However, these metals are prone to oxidation when exposed to air, moisture, or certain chemicals. When oxidation occurs, it forms a greenish layer known as patina. This layer can transfer to the skin, leaving a green mark where the jewelry was worn. This is especially common with rings and bracelets, as they are in constant contact with skin and environmental elements.
2. Erosion of the Gold Layer
Over time, the thin gold layer can wear away due to friction, exposure to water, or contact with harsh chemicals. When the base metal is exposed, it reacts with moisture and air, leading to discoloration. Jewelry worn daily, such as rings or necklaces, is more likely to experience this erosion because of frequent handling and exposure to sweat, lotions, and soaps.
3. Reaction to Skin
Every individual has a unique skin chemistry, and some people’s sweat is more acidic than others. This acidity can accelerate the tarnishing and oxidation process of the base metal beneath the gold plating. Additionally, the natural oils and salts in sweat can interact with the base metal, causing it to oxidize and transfer green discoloration to the skin.
4. Environmental Factors
Humidity, exposure to perfumes, lotions, cleaning agents, and even saltwater can weaken the gold layer and lead to discoloration. For example, wearing gold-plated jewelry while swimming in chlorinated pools or at the beach can accelerate the degradation of the gold layer and expose the base metal.
What Factors can Affect Tarnishing
Here are some factors which can save your jewelry from tarnishing.
1. Quality of the Plating
High-quality gold-plated jewelry often features a thicker layer of gold, which is less likely to wear off quickly. The better the quality of the plating, the longer it will take for the base metal to become exposed.
2. Base Metal Used
The type of metal used as the base layer greatly affects whether green discoloration occurs. Jewelry with stainless steel or other non-reactive metals as the base is much less likely to turn green compared to those made with copper or brass.
3. Frequency of Wear
Jewelry that is worn daily is more prone to wear and tear, which can expose the base metal. Occasional use can help prolong the life of the gold layer and reduce the chances of discoloration.
4. Skin Type and Environmental Exposure
Individual factors such as sweat, body oils, and exposure to environmental elements can also determine whether gold-plated jewelry will turn green. If you are a person who gets more sweat, then it is better to not wear gold plated jewelry on a hot day. Apart, apply cosmetic items like lotion and perfume before wearing jewelry.
How to Prevent Gold-Plated Jewelry from Tarnishing
While the green discoloration is not entirely avoidable for all gold-plated pieces, there are several steps you can take to minimize the chances of it happening:
1. Avoid Moisture
Moisture is one of the biggest causes of gold plated jewelry turning green. Always remove your gold-plated jewelry before swimming, bathing, or engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating. Moisture accelerates the oxidation process of the base metal.
2. Store Properly
Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place when not in use. Use anti-tarnish pouches or silica gel packets to reduce exposure to humidity. Keeping pieces separate in individual bags or compartments can prevent scratches and reduce wear.
3. Limit Exposure to Chemicals
Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, cleaning products, and other chemicals that can erode the gold layer. Apply perfumes and lotions before putting on your jewelry.
4. Clean Regularly
Clean your gold-plated jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove dirt, oils, and sweat. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh cleaning agents that could damage the gold layer. Gold plated jewelry is to be dealt with excessive care during cleaning as plating can wear off on any rough touch.
5. Re-plating Services
If the gold layer begins to wear thin, consider professional re-plating services to restore the original appearance of your jewelry. This process adds a new layer of gold, making the piece look like new. You need to check with your jeweler whether they do it for free or charge a fee for it. This can cost around $25 to $70.
FAQ’s about 14k Gold Plated Tarnish
Here are some FAQ’s about 14k gold plated tarnish.
Does 14k Gold Plated Tarnish
Yes, 14k gold plated does tarnish if gold plating wears off and base is of sterling silver, copper or brass.
Will Gold Plated Turn Green
Yes, it can turn green if base is made of copper or brass.
Does All Gold Plated Jewelry Tarnish
No. Only those gold plated jewelry items tarnish which have a base of sterling silver, brass or copper.
Conclusion
Gold plated jewelry offers a beautiful and affordable way to enjoy the look of gold, but it requires proper care to maintain its appearance. The green discoloration is not inevitable, but understanding its causes and taking preventive measures can help you keep your pieces looking their best for years to come. By investing in high-quality pieces and following care guidelines, you can enjoy the elegance of gold plating without worrying about unwanted green marks.