Last Updated on December 30, 2023
Certain jewelry metals are less likely to tarnish, such as 316L stainless steel, gold, rose gold, platinum, titanium, palladium, niobium, cobalt, and tungsten carbide. Of these metals, platinum is the most durable against tarnishing and will typically keep its shine for many years with proper care.
It is essential to consider the type of metal used in the piece of jewelry you purchase, as some metals are more prone to tarnishing than others. While all metals may eventually tarnish over time, some will do so more quickly than others.
If you are looking for a piece of jewelry that will maintain its shine for many years, keep on reading as we discuss the following:
- What jewelry metal does not change color?
- What jewelry material does not fade?
- Does 14k gold tarnish?
- Does 18k gold tarnish?
- Does 925 sterling silver tarnish?
Contents
What Jewelry Does Not Tarnish?
While there are many types of jewelry metals, not all of them will tarnish. In fact, a few specific metals are much less likely to change color or fade over time. These metals include:
316L Stainless Steel – This type of steel is often used in watches and other pieces of jewelry due to its durability against tarnishing.
Gold – 24k gold is a natural metal that does not corrode or tarnish over time. It is available in different karats, with 24k being the purest form and 18k being the most common.
Rose Gold – Rose gold is made of a combination of pure gold and copper, which gives it its signature pink color. It is also less likely to tarnish than other types of gold.
Platinum – Platinum is a natural metal that does not oxidize or rust like other metals, making it highly resistant to tarnishing. It is also very durable against bending or scratching.
Titanium – Titanium is a durable and lightweight metal that can be used to make jewelry. It is resistant to tarnishing, even when submerged in water or exposed to chlorine and saltwater.
Palladium – Palladium is a precious metal that does not tarnish over time. It can be used to make white gold, maintaining its shine for many years with proper care. This metal is most commonly used in wedding bands.
Niobium – Niobium is a rare metal that is used to make jewelry. It does not corrode or tarnish, even when exposed to saltwater or other harsh chemicals.
Cobalt – Cobalt is a durable metal that can be used to make jewelry. Like titanium, it is resistant to tarnishing and will maintain its shine over time.
Tungsten Carbide – Tungsten carbide is a durable metal often used to make wedding bands. It does not tarnish, making it a good choice for jewelry that will be worn every day.
The list above contains some of the most durable metals used to make jewelry. These metals will not tarnish even when exposed to oxygen, moisture (humidity and sweat), chlorine from pool water, saltwater from oceans and seaside areas, or other harsh chemicals. They will also maintain their shine over time with proper care.
What Jewelry Metal Does Not Change Color?
Palladium and cobalt are two examples of metals that do not change color over time. They are both white metals, so they will not tarnish or change in color. You can wear them with any outfit, and they will always look great.
Gold is another metal that does not change color, but it is more prone to scratching than other metals. Likewise, jewelry made of stainless steel will still maintain its color and shine for many years with proper care.
What Jewelry Material Does Not Fade?
As a popular choice for wedding bands and engagement rings, platinum is one of the most durable metals that does not fade over time. It will maintain its shine without tarnish or corrosion from exposure to external factors.
Another metal that is resistant to fading is titanium. This metal is often used in jewelry because it is lightweight and does not tarnish even when exposed to saltwater or other harsh chemicals.
Does 14k Gold Tarnish?
Although composed of 58.3% gold, 14k gold has a slight tarnishing tendency. The alloying metals included, such as copper and nickel, make the gold harder and more durable. However, these additions also mean that your 14k gold jewelry is more prone to tarnish than pure gold or other higher karat gold alloys.
Does 18k Gold Tarnish?
Consisting of 75% gold, 18k gold is susceptible to tarnishing over time because of the addition of alloying metals. However, it is still more durable than 14k gold and will not corrode or rust when exposed to the elements.
With proper care and storage, your 18k gold jewelry will last many years without tarnishing. Just make sure to keep it in a dry and cool place away from moisture and other chemicals.
Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?
Sterling silver is a type of metal often used in jewelry and has little tarnishing tendency.
Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Although pure silver does not tarnish in a pure oxygen environment, the copper content in 925 sterling silver may react with hydrogen sulfide in air and ozone to form a tarnish layer.
