4 tips to prevent our jewelry from turning black

Jewelry is an essential accessory for some people, and we totally understand why. Earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces… Jewelry adorns many parts of the body and can really add style to an outfit. There are many jewelry offers on the market, from fine jewelry to costume jewelry, so that there is something for every budget. In 2024, the trend is more towards statement jewelry that is visible, even if fine jewelry remains essential. We love chunky earrings (hearts, drops, abstract shapes, etc.), big studs with a vintage feel, an accumulation of vintage rings, but also pearl necklaces to also wear in accumulation. We also really like mix the gold (gold, gold plated, brass or gold metal…) and the silver (silver, stainless steel, etc.): yes yes, you can totally mix the two, it’s very modern. But if you’ve had jewelry for a long time, then you’ve probably already noticed that it darkens over time. They can also stain the hands (for rings), but also the neck (necklace), or the ears. Our tips to prevent your jewelry from turning black.

Why do jewelry turn black?

Before giving tips to prevent jewelry from blackening, it is important to understand why this oxidation phenomenon occurs. This can happen for several reasons.

• When exposed to air : certain metals, such as silver, copper and brass, tend to react chemically with air, which creates an oxidation phenomenon.
• When exposed to humidity or salt water : the latter can accelerate the oxidation process, particularly for silver or copper jewelry. This is why it is recommended to remove your jewelry in the shower or when washing your hands. Sweating also falls into this category: it can cause clothes to darken.
• If you have acidic skin : The pH of the skin can vary from one person to another. If you have acidic skin, then your jewelry will tend to darken more quickly.

How to prevent jewelry from turning black? Our tips

First, avoid putting them under water or wearing them when playing sports as there is a risk that they will oxidize due to perspiration. They must be stored in a closed box and in a dry place: avoid the humid bathroom for example. We also avoid wearing them when cleaning (this especially applies to rings), because the chemicals can quickly damage the jewelry. Finally, they must be well maintained. How ? We think of several tips. First, there are certain products specifically designed for this purpose depending on the metal of the jewelry. Then, if it is 925 silver, you can use a little toothpaste, rinse the jewelry and dry it well to restore its shine. You can also dip the jewelry in a container covered with aluminum foil, add hot water and baking soda! If your jewelry is made of gilded brass, then rubbing it with a microfiber cloth (like the one for wiping glasses) may be enough to restore its good appearance.

Finally, before wearing a piece of jewelry, it is advisable to cover it with a little transparent varnish: this will prevent them from blackening! On TikTok, a user indicates that OCD jewelry can be cleaned well by soaking it in ketchup, an acidic food, for 5 to 10 minutes. It’s up to you to choose the tip that best suits your jewelry!

Fashion, Lifestyle, Astro Journalist

Maude deciphers all the new fashion trends, whether on social networks or on the catwalks. She takes pleasure in selecting the new nuggets to obtain, the…