It is the first question most people ask before they buy anti-tarnish jewellery: will it fade? Here is a straight answer, without the sales talk.
The short answer
Yes, eventually. An anti-tarnish finish slows down tarnish and fading. It doesn't stop them forever. Any brand that tells you its fashion jewellery will never fade is promising more than a finish can do.
The good news: with a little care, anti-tarnish jewellery keeps its colour much longer than ordinary fashion jewellery.
What wears the finish down
- Perfume and body spray, sprayed straight onto the piece.
- Lotion, sunscreen and hair oil.
- Chlorine in pool water, and salt in sea water.
- Soap and shampoo, if you bathe with it on.
- Sweat, especially at the gym or on hot days.
- Rubbing: a bracelet against a laptop, a chain against a bag strap.
Each of these is small. Together, every day, they add up.
How long does it last?
Honestly, it depends on you. Two people can buy the same chain. One puts it on after perfume, takes it off at night and keeps it in a pouch. The other sleeps, showers and swims in it. The first chain will look new for far longer.
Because wear is so different from person to person, we don't promise a number of months. We would rather tell you what helps.
How to slow fading
- Perfume and lotion first, jewellery last. Let them dry.
- Take it off before a long bath, a swim or the gym.
- Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
- Store it dry, in a pouch or a closed box, not in the bathroom.
- Keep pieces apart so they don't scratch each other.
Our cleaning guide explains how to wipe and store it.
Signs it is time to replace a piece
- The colour has worn through where it rubs most, like the clasp or the back of a pendant.
- Dark spots come back soon after you wipe them.
- The surface feels rough or flaky.
At that point, cleaning won't bring it back. Fashion jewellery is made to be enjoyed and then replaced, so it should be priced fairly.
What NuNu says, and doesn't say
Our pieces have an anti-tarnish finish in gold tone. They are made so they won't turn black with normal wear. We don't call them waterproof, permanent or real gold, because they aren't. Every piece is under ₹500, so you can wear it often without worry.
See our charm necklaces and bracelets. Delivery is free across India and takes 3–7 days.
Questions
Does anti-tarnish jewellery fade in water?
Water speeds it up, especially soapy water, pool water and sea water. Take it off before bathing or swimming.
Can I wear it in the shower?
We advise against it. Shower water and soap wear down any finish faster.
Will the colour come back if I polish it?
A soft cloth can bring back shine and remove marks. It can't restore a finish that has worn through.