Can Brass Jewelry Get Wet?

Last Updated on June 14, 2022

If you take care of your valuable jewelry items, they will last. That is why it is crucial to ensure that your jewelry doesn’t get wet. Brass jewelry can get wet, which is not a great thing to happen to the piece

Even if it gets wet, you must take care of it immediately to ensure that it doesn’t get tarnished. Here is a complete guide to understanding if your brass jewelry can get wet. 

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Can Brass Jewelry Get Wet?

Brass jewelry can get wet, and if you leave it for too long, it will ruin the look of your metal. That is why it is crucial to clean the brass jewelry if it comes into contact with water. 

The great thing about brass is that you can always clean it without worrying about how it will look or feel. If your brass jewelry is submerged in the water for too long, it will lose the zinc component. 

Because of this, the metal will weaken, and the structural integrity of your jewelry will be at risk. That is why you must take care of your brass jewelry in the best way possible. 

If you are going swimming or to the beach, we recommend taking off your jewelry. Doing this will protect it from any harm. 

Egyptian Pyramid, Queen Nefertiti, Fist Piece 100% Solid Brass Cuff Bangle Bracelet (Nefertiti/Medium)

Can You Shower With A Brass Necklace?

Outside of swimming, you might be wondering if you can shower with your jewelry. The answer is no because water is harsh on this metal. 

We recommend that you avoid wearing any brass or gold-plated jewelry in the shower. Bathrooms have a humid environment that can wreak havoc on such metals and cause them to tarnish. 

So, be careful about being in the water with your jewelry. It is best not to wear your jewelry anywhere near water. 

How Long Does Brass Jewelry Last?

The great thing about brass is that it is incredibly durable. As long as it does not come into contact with water, brass can last for a few decades. 

That is why brass is one of the best options if you want to opt for affordable yet beautiful jewelry. When you take care of it, then it will ensure you get the most out of it for a long time to come. 

Does Brass Jewelry Turn Skin Green?

Unfortunately, one of the biggest problems with brass is that it can turn green if you don’t take care of it properly. That is because the main components in brass are copper and zinc. 

When these components oxidize or tarnish, they will turn the jewelry green. If you don’t take the jewelry piece off, it can also turn your skin green, which is why you must care for your jewelry as best as you can. 

How Long Does Brass Take To Tarnish?

If you take care of your brass jewelry, it will take some time for it to tarnish. That is because as the metal ages and darkens, it will develop a unique character and patina that might turn it green. 

Of course, such a process takes time. For example, if you don’t meddle with the integrity of the jewelry piece, it can take two years for the brass to tarnish

How Do You Keep Brass From Tarnishing?

One of the top ways to keep brass from tarnishing is to use mineral or linseed oil, as they work to prevent tarnishing. Besides that, WD-40 can work just as well too. 

All you have to do is pour a small amount on a dry and soft cloth. After that, wipe an even yet light coat of this on your brass jewelry or items. 

Once you do, it will offer a protective layer to the brass item, which will keep it from tarnishing for a long time. So, if you are worried about your brass jewelry tarnishing, try this out. 

How Do I Clean Brass Jewelry?

You can easily clean brass jewelry at home by following these steps:

  • Combine ½ cup of vinegar and one tsp of salt
  • Add flour till the mixture becomes paste-like
  • Rub on the brass 
  • Leave it for ten minutes
  • Rinse with warm water and dry it thoroughly

There are many other home remedies, but this is one of the best ways in which you can clean your jewelry. If your brass jewelry isn’t clean, give this method a try. 

Is Brass Metal Cheap?

Brass is one of the most affordable metals if you want to create some excellent and beautiful jewelry for yourself. It is also durable, which means you will get the most value out of your money. 

However, there are some downsides to using brass, as it can tarnish and turn green. That is why this metal will only last long if you take care of it in the best way possible. 

Jackie Palmer is a Houston-based coin journalist and fashion enthusiast. She joined Jewels Advisor’s content team after years of experience as a content strategist, managing blogs and social channels for local stores. Jackie mostly collects and studies US coins produced during the 20th century and over the years, published hundreds of articles for multiple coin publications.