Does Gold Plated Turn Green?
Yes, gold plated can turn green if plating wears off and exposes the base metal to atmosphere. Normally base metal used in gold plating is a cheaper one such as silver, copper or nickel which can tarnish when atmospheric gases react to them. Apart from this, skin oils and cosmetic items can also cause gold plating turn green.
Why Gold Plating Turns Green?
In actual, there are very few chances that gold plating turns green by itself. Most of the times, gold plating wears off from a certain area of the jewelry that exposes the metal beneath to atmospheric conditions. These metals such as silver, copper or nickel can turn green with time which bring green color to that particular exposed area. This process is called tarnishing.
This process is similar to what happens to the Statue of Liberty, which is made of copper. Over time, exposure to the elements caused it to develop its iconic green patina. In jewelry, this same reaction can occur on a much smaller scale, resulting in green marks on the skin.
Apart from this, cosmetic chemicals like skin oils, lotions or perfumes can also cause gold jewelry turn green.
Reasons for Jewelry Turning Green
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.
Does All Gold-Plated Jewelry Turn Green?
Not all gold-plated jewelry will turn green, and several factors influence whether this happens:
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.
How to Prevent Gold-Plated Jewelry from Turning Green
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.
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.