If you have shopped for jewellery online lately, you have seen the word "anti-tarnish" everywhere. A lot of people search for what it means before they buy. Here is the plain answer.
Anti-tarnish meaning, in one line
Anti-tarnish jewellery has a protective finish that slows down tarnish, the dark or dull layer that forms on metal over time. In simple words: it is made so it won't turn black as quickly as ordinary fashion jewellery.
Why fashion jewellery turns black
Most fashion jewellery is a base metal with a thin colour layer on top. Over time, the metal reacts with things around it:
- Air and humidity. Moisture in the air speeds up the reaction.
- Sweat. Salt and acids in sweat sit on the metal all day.
- Perfume, lotion and hair spray. The chemicals in them attack the surface.
- Water. Especially soapy water, pool water and sea water.
The result is the dark, greenish or dull patch you see on old earrings, or on a chain left in a drawer.
What an anti-tarnish finish does, and doesn't do
It does slow the darkening, so a piece keeps its colour for longer with normal wear. You can wear it often without worrying about it after a few days.
It doesn't make jewellery waterproof, make it last forever, or turn it into real gold. Rubbing, perfume and water still wear any finish down over time. How long it lasts depends on how you wear it and how you store it.
That is why we describe our own pieces simply as "anti-tarnish finish, gold tone". We don't call them waterproof or permanent.
Anti-tarnish vs gold-plated vs real gold
- Real gold doesn't tarnish the way fashion jewellery does. It also costs many times more.
- Gold-plated jewellery has a thin layer of gold on a base metal. On its own, that thin layer can wear, and the metal under it can darken.
- Anti-tarnish jewellery adds a protective finish on top, so the colour holds for longer.
If you want the look of gold for daily wear at a small price, anti-tarnish is the sensible middle. We explain how it differs from waterproof and stainless steel in a separate post.
How to make it last
Three habits do most of the work:
- Perfume and lotion first, jewellery last.
- Take it off before a long bath or a swim.
- Store it dry, in a pouch or a closed box, away from the bathroom.
Our cleaning guide covers the rest.
Shop anti-tarnish jewellery
All NuNu jewellery has an anti-tarnish finish in gold tone. Start with our necklaces, or see all jewellery. Delivery is free across India and takes 3–7 days.
Questions
Can I wear anti-tarnish jewellery every day?
Yes. That is what it is made for. Follow the three habits above and it keeps its colour for longer.
How long does anti-tarnish jewellery last?
It depends on wear and care, so we don't promise a number of months. Pieces kept away from perfume and water last much longer than pieces worn in the shower.
Does anti-tarnish mean waterproof?
No. Anti-tarnish slows darkening. It doesn't make a piece waterproof. Take it off before a bath or a swim.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
We don't sell our pieces as hypoallergenic. If your skin reacts easily, try a piece for a few hours first.