When it comes to fashion or costume jewelry, it’s no secret that the pieces don’t last forever. Color changes and skin irritations are just a couple of the issues that can arise from wearing these types of accessories. However, even with this knowledge, it can still be surprising when unexpected changes occur.
One such change is when fake gold jewelry turns silver. This can be a frustrating occurrence, especially if the jewelry was a favorite piece. In this article, we will explore the reasons why this happens and what can be done to fix and prevent it from happening in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Fake gold jewelry can turn silver due to a variety of reasons.
- There are methods to fix tarnished fake gold jewelry.
- Proper care and storage can prevent tarnishing in the first place.
Why is Your Imitation Gold Jewelry Turning Silver?
Imitation gold jewelry is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy the look of gold without the high price tag. However, it is not uncommon for fake gold jewelry to change color over time, and one of the most common color changes is from gold to silver. This section will explore the main reasons why your fake gold jewelry might be turning silver.
Tarnishing
One of the main reasons why your fake gold jewelry might be turning silver is due to tarnishing. Unlike solid gold jewelry, fake or fashion jewelry is often gold-plated, and the gold-coated layer will naturally flake off over time. The elements of the gold coating may also react with water and other elements in the environment, causing tarnishing.
In addition, the exposure of fake jewelry to air, water, lotions, oils, and other elements can increase the rate at which tarnishing occurs. Sterling silver, in particular, is known to tarnish when exposed to these elements, resulting in a gray discoloration. The tarnished layer may also have black specks, which can be deposited on a piece of white cloth when wiped.
It is important to note that tarnishing is not limited to fake gold jewelry and can occur in any jewelry made of materials that are not 100% pure gold or silver.
Abrasion
Another reason why your fake gold jewelry might be turning silver is due to abrasion. If the jewelry is plated with 18k gold, for example, abrasion resulting from the jewelry scratching against hard surfaces can increase the rate of tarnishing, causing the jewelry to turn gray or silver.
To prevent abrasion and slow down the rate of tarnishing, it is important to take good care of your fake gold jewelry. This includes avoiding contact with hard surfaces, water, lotions, oils, and other elements that can increase the rate of tarnishing.
In conclusion, if your fake gold jewelry is turning silver, it is most likely due to tarnishing or abrasion. By taking good care of your jewelry and avoiding exposure to elements that can increase the rate of tarnishing, you can extend the life of your fake gold jewelry and enjoy its beautiful appearance for longer.
How to Fix Tarnished Fake Gold
Fake gold jewelry is a popular choice for those who want to accessorize without breaking the bank. However, just like with real gold, fake gold jewelry can become tarnished over time. Fortunately, there are several effective remedies for getting rid of or fixing tarnished pieces of fake gold jewelry.
Using Lemon Juice
One of the easiest and most effective ways to remove tarnish from fake gold jewelry is by using lemon juice. To do this, mix equal parts of lemon juice and clean water in a bowl. Soak the tarnished jewelry in the bowl for 10-15 minutes. If the piece is heavily tarnished, consider soaking it for a little longer. Once the tarnish layer is removed, rinse the jewelry and dry it before storing.
Baking Soda, Aluminum Foil, and Salt
Another effective way to clean fake gold jewelry is by using a mixture of baking soda, salt, and aluminum foil. Line a clean plate with a sheet of aluminum foil, shiny side up, and lay the tarnished jewelry on the foil. In a clean bowl, mix a tablespoon each of salt and baking soda with one cup of warm water. Pour the mixture into the plate or pan lined with aluminum foil. The mixture will create a chemical reaction, causing the jewelry to bubble and become clean. Rinse the jewelry with cool water and buff it dry with a clean cloth.
Toothpaste Hack
Lastly, the toothpaste hack can also be used to clean tarnished fake gold jewelry. Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste on the jewelry and brush it gently with an old toothbrush or Q-tip. Focus on heavily tarnished areas and crevices. Rinse the jewelry with clean, warm running water and buff it dry with a clean cloth.
In conclusion, there are several effective ways to fix tarnished fake gold jewelry. By using lemon juice, baking soda, salt, and aluminum foil, or toothpaste, you can easily remove tarnish and restore the shine to your favorite fake gold jewelry pieces.
How to Prevent Tarnishing
To prevent tarnishing, it is recommended to follow these simple steps:
- Avoid exposing your jewelry to heavily chlorinated pools.
- Store your jewelry in dry, clean, and airtight storage boxes or bags.
- Do not use harsh cleaning compounds on your jewelry.
- Wear your jewelry last to avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, and other chemicals.
- Do not wear your jewelry while sleeping, showering/bathing, or exercising.
By following these steps, you can help prolong the life of your jewelry and keep it looking its best.
Conclusion
In summary, tarnishing and flaking are common issues that can affect fake gold jewelry. To restore the jewelry to its original glory, it is important to follow the recommended cleaning methods. Tiger, a fashion and jewelry lover, and expert in metals, shared valuable information on how to care for fake gold jewelry. It is important to note that fake gold jewelry may not last as long as real gold jewelry, but with proper care, it can still look great for a long time. For more information on jewelry metals, readers can refer to the recommended posts.
