Chanel has been known for creating costume jewellery that offers a fashionable and cheaper substitute for fine jewellery. The House of Chanel began making costume jewellery pieces between 1914 and 1939, using cheaper and accessible materials to produce chic pieces that were more affordable for their market.
Despite being less expensive than fine jewellery, Chanel’s costume jewellery pieces are still costly. If you’re considering purchasing a piece from their costume jewellery line, it’s important to know everything you need to before making the purchase. In this article, you’ll learn about the materials used in Chanel’s costume jewellery, why or why not they tarnish, and tips for cleaning your tarnished Chanel jewellery.
Key Takeaways
- Chanel’s costume jewellery offers a fashionable and cheaper substitute for fine jewellery
- The House of Chanel began making costume jewellery pieces between 1914 and 1939, using cheaper and accessible materials
- Before purchasing a piece from Chanel’s costume jewellery line, it’s important to know about the materials used, why or why not they tarnish, and tips for cleaning your tarnished Chanel jewellery
Does Chanel Costume Jewellery Tarnish?
Chanel costume jewellery may tarnish over time depending on the conditions it is exposed to. This is a common and normal occurrence since the jewellery is not made from precious metals. However, with proper care, these pieces may not tarnish at all. While they may not tarnish as quickly as other jewellery pieces, it is still important to take care of them to ensure their longevity. It is recommended to store them in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
What metal is Chanel costume jewellery made of?
Chanel costume jewellery is crafted using non-precious base metals such as rhodium, rhodium over steel, and stainless steel. Precious metals like gold and platinum are not used in this line. Chanel also employs imitation gemstones in the production of their costume jewellery. Despite not being precious metals, these base metals are of high quality, resulting in superior quality Chanel costume jewellery.
Why or Why Doesn’t Chanel Costume Jewellery Tarnish?
Chanel costume jewellery is susceptible to tarnishing due to its metal composition. The jewellery pieces are made of base metal, which is a combination of various metals like brass, copper, and nickel. These metals are prone to tarnishing when they come into contact with external substances that contain elements like sulfur and oxygen.
Deodorants, makeup, lotion, perfumes, sweat, oils, and other external substances are common culprits that cause oxidation, leading to tarnishing. The extent of tarnishing depends on how often the jewellery pieces are worn and cleaned.
However, some Chanel costume jewellery pieces are coated with a layer of metal plating, which acts as a barrier against oxidation. The plating can be made of gold, silver, or rhodium, which not only protects the jewellery but also enhances its appearance.
It is worth noting that even with proper cleaning and storage, Chanel costume jewellery may still tarnish over time due to the presence of oxidizing elements in the air. Regular cleaning and storage in a dry place can help slow down the tarnishing process.
Tips for Cleaning Your Tarnished Chanel Jewellery
Chanel jewellery pieces are timeless and elegant, but over time they may become tarnished. Proper cleaning techniques are essential to ensure that your Chanel jewellery lasts longer. Here are some tips to help you clean your tarnished Chanel jewellery pieces:
Baking Soda, Aluminum Foil, and Salt
One effective method for cleaning your tarnished Chanel jewellery is by using baking soda, aluminum foil, and salt. Start by lining a plate or pan with the shiny side of the aluminum foil facing up. Place your tarnished Chanel jewellery on the plate or pan.
In one cup of warm water, mix 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Pour the mixture on the jewellery on the plate or pan. You will notice fizzing and bubbles as the mixture reacts with the tarnish on your jewellery.
After a few minutes, check if the tarnish has been removed, rinse the pieces with cool water, and pat dry with a clean cloth. This method is effective for removing tarnish from your Chanel jewellery pieces.
Lemon Juice
Another effective method for cleaning your tarnished Chanel jewellery is by using lemon juice. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water and place your jewellery inside the mixture. Let it soak for around 10-15 minutes.
The acid from the lemon will clean the tarnish from your piece. Once the jewellery is clean, rinse it with cool water and pat dry with a clean cloth. If there is still tarnish on your jewellery, rinse the piece with cool water and place it back in the acidic mixture for a few extra minutes. Then, rinse again and dry the piece thoroughly.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Using an old toothbrush and toothpaste is another effective method for cleaning your tarnished Chanel jewellery. Squeeze a pea-sized amount of toothpaste onto your affected jewellery piece and smear it with your finger. Once the piece of jewellery is covered with a thin coat of toothpaste, start gently scrubbing it with the toothbrush.
Scrub gently and thoroughly, making sure you get into the crevices. The gritty texture of the toothpaste and the hard toothbrush bristles will make sure to remove the dirt completely. A Q-tip can be used in place of the toothbrush for this method. After cleaning thoroughly, rinse the jewellery with clean cool water and pat dry with a clean cloth.
In conclusion, using these simple and effective methods will help you clean your tarnished Chanel jewellery pieces and keep them looking their best for years to come.
Conclusion
Taking care of your Chanel costume jewellery is crucial to maintain its colour and prevent tarnishing. With proper care, your jewellery can last for years. Stephanie, a jewellery designer and writer, recommends the following tips to revive your Chanel costume jewellery:
- Use a soft cloth to clean your jewellery after each wear to remove any dirt or sweat.
- Store your jewellery in a dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Avoid exposing your jewellery to harsh chemicals such as perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays.
- Use a jewellery cleaning solution specifically designed for costume jewellery to remove any tarnish.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your Chanel costume jewellery looking as good as new. Remember that proper care is key to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your jewellery pieces.
