Does White Gold Tarnish? Tips to Keep It Shining

For many jewelry enthusiasts and casual admirers, white gold is a modern classic and a popular choice. Most prefer white gold in the making of engagement rings, necklaces and bracelets. So, what is white gold? What is it composed of? What are its properties? And the elephant in the room, does white gold tarnish?

What is White Gold?

White gold is an alloy composed of pure gold and white metals. This may include nickel, silver and palladium. When mixed the end result is a silvery-white hue that attracts many to it. For the final touch, white gold is plated with rhodium which gives it a shiny and brilliant enhancement.

The percentage of pure gold in white gold alloys is usually indicated by karats. For example, 18K or 14K, with 18K indicating 75% pure gold and 25% other metals, and 14K indicating 58.5% pure gold and 41.5% other metals. 100% pure gold is 24K and thus the alloys are an addition to make up the 24K. Pure gold is very soft and the metals are added to it to make it stronger.

White gold mixed with nickel is mostly used in the making of necklaces and bracelets. On the other hand, white gold mixed with palladium or platinum is used in the making of jewelry incorporating intricate designs.

Does White Gold Tarnish? How to Keep It Looking New

White Gold is without a doubt durable. In fact, this is one of the reasons why people opt for it when purchasing jewelry. However, this shouldn’t be a reason to treat one’s jewelry without care or caution. Despite their guaranteed durability, white gold owners should take the necessary steps to ensure their pieces are safe and protected from mishandling.

Scratches, pressure and impact all play a part when it comes to the appearance of your jewelry. Frequent polishing, for example, is discouraged as it will increase the wear on your jewelry. This may even cause it to weaken.

Other factors to consider include exposure to harsh chemicals like bleach and chlorine, environmental factors like humidity, sweat, and scratches from hard surfaces. Close proximity to other jewelry can also result in scratches or wear.

What is Rhodium Plating?

Rhodium Plating is like an additional layer of protection and beauty all at the same time. As mentioned before, rhodium plating is added to white gold. This is by no means done just for the brilliant appearance. While the shiny look that it provides is definitely an added bonus, white rhodium plating is there for added strength.

Unfortunately, white gold can tarnish and appear yellowish, brownish, or greenish. It may also turn black. This is because the rhodium plating is not waterproof. It can resist minimal exposure to water but continuous contact will result in tarnished jewelry.

Does White Gold need Maintenance?

It is essential to properly take care of and maintain white gold jewelry. Nobody likes damaged jewelry. To avoid the tarnishing of white gold, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals that can damage the metal and cause discoloration. These include homemade cleaning detergents and bleach. To ensure long-lasting brilliance, learn how to clean jewelry the right way in our detailed guide: How To Clean Diamond Earrings & Rings At Home

There are additional measures that you can take to protect your jewelry. Remove it before swimming to avoid exposure to chlorine, and before exercising as it may come in contact with sweat. Also, store it separately from other jewelry to prevent bumping that may cause scratches. 

Regularly clean your jewelry using a gentle cleanser and water and polish it using a soft cloth to remove dirt and dust. This will protect it from tarnishing fast. When you notice the tarnished look creeping in you can re-plate it with rhodium which will help retain its shine.

Why Choose White Gold?

There are many reasons why white gold might be for you. White gold is favored for its aesthetic appeal. It pairs well with a variety of metals and precious stones and complements different outfits and styles. Hey, who doesn't like multipurpose jewelry?

As it is an alloy of various metals, it is quite durable and resistant to scratches compared to other metals. It can be worn daily even while performing mundane tasks such as sleeping and eating. 

Rhodium replating allows the metal to regain its shine and luster making it visually striking. White gold containing palladium is hypoallergenic making it suitable for those with skin sensitivity. It is also pocket-friendly, as it is more affordable compared to other metal alternatives like platinum.

At Shiree Odiz we make it our mission to ensure that you have before your piece of jewelry, when you get it and after. While white gold does tarnish at some point it continues to be a greatly sought piece of jewelry because of its stunning nature. All you have to do is take care of it and maintain it when need be.

FAQs:

Q. Does 14K White Gold Tarnish?

Yes, 14K white gold can tarnish over time as the rhodium plating wears off, exposing the yellowish gold alloy underneath. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and occasional re-plating with rhodium, helps preserve its shine.

Q. Does 10K White Gold Tarnish?

Yes, 10K white gold can tarnish. Due to its lower gold content, it may tarnish slightly faster than higher karat gold, as it contains a higher percentage of other metals. Rhodium plating can help maintain its bright appearance.

Q. What Does Tarnished White Gold Look Like?

Tarnished white gold may appear yellowish, brownish, or even greenish in color. In some cases, it can turn black as the rhodium plating wears off, revealing the underlying alloy.

Q. Does White Gold Tarnish Like Silver?

No, white gold does not tarnish like silver. While silver oxidizes and turns black over time, white gold tarnishes more slowly and typically shows a yellowish hue as the rhodium coating wears off. Regular re-plating and care can prevent this discoloration.

Q. Does Rhodium Tarnish?

No, rhodium itself does not tarnish. It is a highly durable and corrosion-resistant metal that maintains its shine. However, over time, the rhodium plating on jewelry, like white gold, can wear off, which may expose the underlying metal that can tarnish. Re-plating with rhodium can restore the jewelry's bright, shiny appearance.