Why is my jewelry tarnishing all of a sudden?
Most jewelry is made with poor-quality metals. When the metal surface comes in contact with sweat, makeup, body lotion, and other substances, it tends to tarnish the jewelry. thus making the jewelry look black.
However, it will wear and tear depending on how you wear and care for it. Some tarnish before it is worn a second time, which can be very painful and annoying. Jewelry tarnishing depends on so many factors. Read on to learn some reasons why jewelry tarnishes all of a sudden.
Why Jewelry Tarnishes ?
Here are some factors that cause jewelry to tarnish with little or no time. They are:
- Environmental Factors
These factors are air pollution and humidity. Air can cause jewelry to tarnish faster and more easily. Sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide are part of the air pollution that causes tarnishing in jewelry once it is exposed. This causes the jewelry to lose its shining and sparkling look, which can reduce its value.
- Exposure To Moisture
Once your jewelry comes in contact with water, what causes it to tarnish? Most people wear jewelry to swim, wash plates or clothes, and shower, thereby exposing the jewelry to substances that can lead to tarnishing.
Not only that, but hairspray, lotions, perfumes, nail polish remover, and other cosmetics can cause corrosion and discoloration once they come in contact with jewelry. The pH balance can influence the body and the jewelry when they come together, and this can result in the jewelry becoming tarnished. However, you need to prevent your jewelry from tarnishing, and the question is, “What can I do to prevent my jewelry from tarnishing?”
How To Prevent Jewelry From Tarnishing ?
There are simple and easy things you can do to prevent your jewelry from tarnishing. They are:
Keep it dry
Like it was stated earlier, once your jewelry comes in contact with water, it tarnishes. This is one of the fastest ways to prevent it is by keeping it dry. You can wipe or dry your jewelry as soon as it gets wet, whether by accident or on purpose, to avoid tarnishing.
Store properly
Moisture in the air can cause wear and tear on jewelry. It is very important to store properly. Most jewelry comes with a pouch or box. The purpose of these pouches or boxes is to protect the jewelry from the sun and scratches.
You can also get a Ziploc bag and store jewelry in it, but make sure air is removed from the bag before sealing it to avoid the oxidation process.
Professional cleaning
Once a year, you can take your jewelry for professional cleaning. These people are experienced and have the knowledge to care for all jewelry. It is good practice for your jewelry to last a long time. It is also one of the best ways to keep your jewelry historic.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better understanding of why jewelry tarnishes and how to care for it, you can also give your jewelry a break that will keep it shining and sparkling. You may not be able to control the air around you and your jewelry, but you can take good care of your jewelry.