How to Keep Gold Jewelry from Tarnishing
Tarnished jewelry is one of the most common complaints in the world of accessories — and one of the most preventable. Here's what causes tarnish, and exactly how to stop it from happening to your favourite pieces.
Why Does Gold Jewelry Tarnish?
Traditional gold-plated jewelry tarnishes because the thin gold layer wears away over time, exposing the base metal underneath (often brass or copper) to air and moisture. The result: that greenish or darkened discolouration you've probably seen before.
The fix isn't just better care — it's better materials.
The Role of PVD Plating
PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) plating is a vacuum-bonding process that creates a bond between the gold finish and the base metal that is significantly stronger than traditional electroplating. At Golden Daisy, we use 18K PVD gold plating over 316L medical-grade stainless steel — a combination that is inherently rust- and corrosion-resistant, so there's no reactive base metal to expose.
5 Tips to Keep Your Jewelry Looking New
- Put jewelry on last. Apply perfume, lotion, and hairspray before putting on your pieces. Chemicals in these products can dull any finish over time.
- Wipe after wearing. A quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth removes sweat and oils before they can build up.
- Store properly. Keep pieces in a cool, dry place — ideally in a pouch or box, away from direct sunlight and humidity.
- Avoid harsh chemicals. Remove jewelry before using cleaning products, bleach, or chlorinated pools for extended periods.
- Clean gently. When needed, clean with mild soap and warm water, then dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cloths or toothbrushes.
Start with Jewelry That's Built to Last
The best tarnish prevention starts at the source. Browse our gold jewelry and bestsellers — all crafted with PVD plating and stainless steel for lasting wear.