Does White Gold Tarnish? Tips for Maintenance

White gold is a popular choice due to its beauty, durability, affordability, and versatility, as it conveys elegance and style. However, after wearing white gold for some time, some people find that it seems to change color. You may wonder can white gold tarnish? Follow along with Juyoyo to find out the answer to "Does white gold tarnish?" You will also learn how to maintain and care for your white gold jewelry.

What is White Gold?

White gold is an alloy made by combining pure gold with white metals such as palladium, silver, or nickel to create a silvery-white appearance, offering an affordable alternative to platinum. It's often plated with rhodium to enhance its whiteness and luster, making it a popular choice for engagement rings because of its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Does White Gold Tarnish?

White gold itself doesn't tarnish. White gold is an alloy that combines gold with a white metal such as palladium, silver, or nickel. White gold is often plated with a thin layer of rhodium, which helps to protect it from tarnishing. However, while the gold itself does not tarnish, the rhodium layer can wear off over time. This can reveal the natural color of the white gold alloy underneath, appearing slightly yellowish. This is not tarnishing. It is the wearing away of the plating due to chemicals (such as perfumes, etc.) or reacting with the environment, even at home. That's why your white gold ring looks 'tarnished'.

White Gold Purity Grades

As we mentioned, white gold is an alloy consisting of a mixture of gold and other white-colored metals. White gold on the market has 14k white gold, 18k white gold, etc. What are the figures? The terms 14k and 18k refer to the karat of gold, which indicates the purity of the gold in the alloy. 10k white gold means that the gold alloy contains 41.7% pure gold; 14k white gold means that the gold alloy contains 58.3% pure gold; 18k white gold means that the gold alloy contains 75% pure gold.

10K vs 14K vs 18K

10k contains 41.7% gold and is a more durable and affordable choice, but may have a higher allergy risk due to the high nickel content. 14k offers a balance between durability, appearance and cost, containing 58.3% pure gold. 18k contains 75% pure gold and is more luxurious and expensive for its higher gold content.

All grades of white gold will not tarnish, but the higher the gold content, the faster the colour may fade. But don't worry. At Juyoyo, we offer 14k/18k, silver and more choices with superb craftsmanship and technology to protect each of our jewelry from tarnishing or colour loss fast.

Continue reading: White Gold vs Silver

White Gold Pros and Cons

White Gold Pros

Aesthetic appeal: White gold has a modern, elegant look and works well with diamonds and moissanite. Its silvery-white color is favored for its elegant and sophisticated look.

Durability: White gold is a practical choice for everyday wear, especially for engagement and wedding rings, as it is stronger and more scratch-resistant than pure gold.

Affordability: White gold is generally more affordable and is a more budget-friendly alternative to platinum or any of the other popular white metals. It looks similar to platinum but costs less to produce.

Rhodium plating: Rhodium plating adds luster and shines to white gold, making it bright and shiny. It also adds an extra layer of protection. This makes the jewelry more resistant to tarnish and wear.

Juyoyo oval cut white sapphire white gold engagement ring

White Gold Cons

Color fade: Without rhodium plating white gold can develop a slight yellow tint over time for the alloy metals' natural color. To keep it looking bright and white, regular maintenance is required.

Allergic reactions: The alloying of other metals can cause allergies in some people due to their nickel content.

Does White Gold Turn Your Finger Green?

Aside from the question "Does white gold tarnish?", there is another question people may ask: "Does white gold turn your finger green?" The answer is no. White gold will not normally turn your finger green. Copper-based metals, often found in lower-quality gold alloys, are more likely to have this reaction. White gold is plated with a layer of rhodium, which provides a good barrier to prevent the alloy metals from reacting with your skin, thus reducing the likelihood of discoloration.

Continue reading: Why do the rings turn the skin on my fingers green?

Tips for Maintain White Gold

Care of white gold jewelry is essential to keep it looking beautiful and shiny and to prevent tarnishing. Here are some tips for caring for white gold:

Clean regularly: Clean with a mild soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt, oils, and other residues. Then rinse it with water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.

Note: Do not expose your white gold ring to prolonged immersion in water. It is best to remove your white gold jewelry before showering or bathing.

Re-plate with Rhodium: the rhodium plating on white gold can wear off over time, revealing the natural color of the alloy underneath. Have your white gold ring re-plated by a jeweler every 1-2 years to maintain its luster and color is needed.

Avoid polishing: Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the surface when cleaning or polishing your white gold jewelry. Instead, stick to soft cloths and gentle cleaning solutions.

Popular White Gold Jewelry, Add to Your Cart!

Juyoyo Oval Cut Emerald White Gold Engagement Ring

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Juyoyo Vintage White Gold Stacking Wedding Ring

Dripping Honey Rose Gold Necklace White Sapphire Pendant Necklace

Summary & Conclusion

The answer to the question "Does white gold tarnish? White gold does not typically tarnish. Owning a white gold ring can be a wonderful experience as it combines elegance, durability, affordability, and versatility. Come and pick up your white gold rings at Juyoyo right now!

FAQs about White Gold

What Does Tarnished White Gold Look Like?

Tarnished white gold can appear dull and lose its bright, shiny appearance. It may develop a yellowish or grayish tint due to the wearing off of the rhodium plating.

Can You Shower with White Gold?

In general, it is better to remove your white gold ring before showering to preserve its luster. The rhodium plating can wear off more quickly when exposed to water and chemicals (such as shampoos and shower gels).

Does White Gold Tarnish Like Silver?

White gold does not tarnish like silver. Silver tarnishes by forming a black layer of silver sulfide on its surface due to a chemical reaction with sulfur compounds in the air. White gold does not tarnish, but the rhodium coating can wear off over time and appear yellow.

Does Sterling Silver Turn Green?

Yes, sterling silver can sometimes turn green due to a chemical reaction on copper-based metals.