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There is a timeless charm about gold jewellery. Whether it’s a dainty chain worn to work or an ornate ring passed down through generations, gold has a way of elevating everyday moments and adding grace to life’s grandest occasions. It’s no wonder, then, that seeing your gold jewellery lose its shine or worse, develop dark patches, can be quite disheartening, especially when it holds memories close to your heart.
Pure gold, as we know, does not tarnish. But gold in its natural form is very soft and delicate, making it unsuitable for shaping into beautiful jewellery. To craft intricate designs that last, gold is carefully combined with other metals to form a stronger alloy. So why does gold jewellery lose its lustre over time or even turn black? The change in appearance often comes from how this strengthened form of gold interacts with everyday elements around us. Here are some reasons that cause this shift in appearance.
Our bodies release sweat and oils, especially in humid climates. These bodily fluids can react with the metals mixed in your gold jewellery and cause them to oxidise and darken. Metal ions in gold alloy react with oxygen in the air or water. This reaction can lead to gold discolouration.
Spritzing your favourite perfume directly onto your neck or wrists might enhance your aura, but did you know that it can also affect your gold bangle or chain? Body perfumes, deodorants, or scented cosmetics and skin care products contain artificial elements that rob gold jewellery of its colour. These can cause surface reactions, gradually turning parts of your jewellery black or dull.
It may seem harmless to wash your hands frequently or take a shower while wearing your gold rings or chains. However, many soaps and cleaning agents contain harsh ingredients that can react with metal alloys. High alcohol content in hand sanitisers can dry out and dull the surface of your jewellery, and over time, contribute to discolouration.
But don’t lose hope, the good news is that the blackening of gold jewellery is typically limited to the surface and can be reversed with professional polishing. With a little care, you can preserve the beauty of your gold jewellery for years to come. In some regions of India, mobile polishing services or doorstep gold polishing are popular, but these are unprofessional services and may reduce the weight of your jewellery during the process.
At Kalyan Jewellers, we offer free gold polishing at all our stores. The weight of your gold is accurately recorded before polishing and remains unchanged after, ensuring your jewellery is restored to its original brilliance without compromising its value.
Your expensive gold jewellery is more than just a beautiful accessory; it’s an investment in value, memory, and meaning. By understanding what causes discolouration and taking a few preventive steps, you can help your cherished pieces continue to shine as beautifully as the day you first wore them.
