Why do jewelry pearls tarnish or lose their color?
- 2 min reading time
You may have noticed that some jewelry pearls change color, tarnish, or discolor over time. This can have several reasons, especially with cheaper pearls or costume jewelry. Here are some explanations and tips to help keep your jewelry beautiful and shiny for longer:
1. Material quality
Jewelry beads and metals that aren't made of high-quality materials like sterling silver, gold, or stainless steel are often more susceptible to discoloration. Cheaper materials can tarnish, oxidize, or discolor more quickly because they react to air, moisture, and other external influences.
2. Contact with water and chemicals
Jewelry should not come into contact with water if possible. This means showering, bathing, and swimming without jewelry is best! Contact with sweat, soaps, perfumes, hairsprays, and other chemicals can also lead to discoloration and damage.
3. Sunlight
Direct sunlight can fade the color of pearls and gemstones. This can affect the quality of your jewelry, especially if exposed to sunlight for extended periods. It's therefore advisable to store jewelry in a cool, dry place when not being worn.
4. Mechanical stress
Jewelry can lose its color or become damaged due to friction and mechanical stress, such as scratching against other surfaces. To avoid this, always put your jewelry down carefully and store it separately from other jewelry.
Tips to keep your jewelry beautiful for longer:
- Remove your jewelry before showering, bathing, or swimming to prevent it from coming into contact with water and chemicals.
- Avoid wearing your jewelry while exercising or engaging in strenuous activities. Sweat can damage the materials and cause discoloration.
- Store your jewelry in a dry, dark place, preferably in a jewelry box or small bags.*This will protect it from dust, moisture, and sunlight.
- Only put on your jewelry after applying perfume, hairspray, or other grooming products. This way, you avoid direct contact with chemicals.
- Clean your jewelry regularly with a soft cloth.*This removes dirt and skin oils and makes your jewelry shine again.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your jewelry stays beautiful for a long time and that you enjoy it for a long time! 😊
