Does Stainless Steel Jewellery Tarnish? How to Prevent It
Stainless steel itself rarely discolours or rusts. What can dull over time is the thin gold- or silver-tone finish on top, through friction, sweat, perfume, lotion, chlorine and salt water. Four habits keep your jewellery looking good for longer: put it on last, take it off for water and sport, store it dry and separately, and clean it only with a soft, dry cloth.
Quick answer
- Does the steel discolour? Hardly; it resists air and moisture well.
- What does wear? The colour finish, especially where it is touched most, such as the clasp and pendant.
- Prevention: perfume and lotion first, jewellery on last; off for showering, swimming and sport; store dry and separately.
- Cleaning: a soft, dry cloth; no abrasive or chemical cleaners.
What is the difference between the steel and the finish?
Most of our pieces are made of stainless steel with a gold- or silver-tone finish, often a PVD finish. The steel is the base; the finish is a thin layer that gives the colour. The steel copes well with air and moisture. The finish is more delicate and can dull or wear over time.
Not every piece is steel. The clover bracelet with initial is made of metal with a gold-tone finish and needs the same care, or a little more. Always check the material on the product page.
What makes jewellery dull?
- Perfume, lotion and sunscreen: they stay on the piece and affect the finish.
- Chlorine and salt water: in the pool and the sea.
- Sweat: during sport your jewellery sits against damp skin for a long time.
- Rubbing: pieces loose in a bag or dish rub against each other.
- Cleaning products: washing-up liquid and sprays are not meant for jewellery.
How do you stop jewellery from discolouring?
- Last on, first off. Apply perfume, lotion and make-up first, then put on your jewellery.
- Off for water and sport. Take it off for showering, swimming and sport.
- Store dry and separately. In a pouch or a box with compartments, so pieces do not rub and chains do not tangle.
- Do not pull on fine chains and clasps.
How do you clean stainless steel jewellery?
Gently wipe the piece with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasives, chemical cleaners or an ultrasonic cleaner. Hard polishing removes dirt, but also the finish. Pearls need extra care; see how to care for pearl jewellery.
Which pieces are easy to look after?
Simple, smooth pieces have fewer edges where dirt collects. Think of the small hoop earrings, the stretch bracelet with steel beads or the cubic zirconia solitaire necklace. See also the minimalist jewellery collection.
How do you take jewellery on holiday?
On holiday, jewellery meets sunscreen, salt water and chlorine more often. Bring only what you will wear, take it off before swimming or applying sunscreen, and keep it in a separate pouch away from bottles in your toiletry bag.
Something wrong after all?
Did your piece arrive damaged, or is something else wrong? Email charmhabit.com@gmail.com with your order number, the item and a photo if it helps. See also warranty and complaints. Care advice never limits your statutory rights. All general tips are on jewellery care.
Frequently asked questions
Can I shower with stainless steel jewellery?
The steel copes with moisture, but soap, shampoo and hot water are not good for the finish. Take your jewellery off when you shower.
Does stainless steel tarnish?
The steel itself resists rust well. The gold- or silver-tone finish can dull through friction, sweat and chemicals.
How do I clean my jewellery?
With a soft, dry cloth. No abrasives, chemical cleaners or ultrasonic cleaning.
Is gold-tone the same as gold?
No. Gold-tone describes the colour of the finish. The material is listed on every product page.