How to Prevent Jewellery Tarnishes: Expert Tips and Care

Comparison of jewellery tarnishes before and after cleaning showing dull and shiny gold pieces

Lustre of Love | Jewellery Care Guide

Your favourite ring has gone dull. That sparkling necklace? Not quite as radiant. Don’t worry—it’s not ruined, it’s just tarnished. And it’s more common than you think.

In this article, we’ll explore why jewellery tarnishes, which metals are most affected, and how to prevent tarnishing so your pieces remain as beautiful as the day you got them.

💭 What Is Tarnish?

Tarnish is a thin layer of corrosion that forms on metals like silver, copper, and brass. It occurs due to a chemical reaction—usually between the metal and sulphur, oxygen, moisture, or natural oils from your skin.

Even high-quality jewellery can tarnish over time—so it’s not a reflection of poor quality.

🔍 Common Causes of Tarnishing

  1. Moisture – Humidity, sweat, or a splash of water can react with the metal.

  2. Natural Oils & Sweat – These contain salt, which accelerates tarnishing.

  3. Perfume & Lotion – Everyday beauty products can leave residue on jewellery.

  4. Air Exposure – Oxygen and sulphur in the air cause gradual dullness.

  5. Poor Storage – Leaving your jewellery exposed or tangled can speed up wear.

✅ How to Prevent Tarnishing

1. Store It Properly
Use airtight pouches, anti-tarnish bags, or a lined jewellery box with compartments. Adding a silica gel packet helps reduce moisture.

2. Last On, First Off
Put on your jewellery after perfume, moisturiser, and makeup. Remove it before sleeping, swimming, or working out.

3. Clean After Use
Gently wipe your jewellery with a soft, dry cloth to remove any moisture or oils before storing.

4. Avoid Water & Chemicals
Keep jewellery away from water, perfumes, and cleaning agents.

5. Rotate Regularly
Wearing the same piece daily? Let it rest. Give your jewellery some downtime to preserve its finish.

💎 Can You Fix Tarnished Jewellery?

Absolutely! Use a jewellery cleaning cloth or a mild cleaning solution designed for the specific metal. For silver, a baking soda paste can be helpful—just be gentle and avoid scrubbing too hard, especially on plated items or delicate stones.

💬 Final Thoughts

Tarnishing is a natural process, but with just a bit of care, your jewellery will continue to sparkle for years to come. At Lustre of Love, every piece is crafted with love and meant to last. Let’s keep the love shining.

Top Tip: Give your jewellery a quick wipe before storing—it makes all the difference!

Back to blog

Leave a comment