Can White Gold Turn Yellow?
White gold is a popular choice for jewelry because of its shiny and elegant appearance. However, over time, some people notice that their white gold jewelry starts to turn yellow. Is that possible? Let’s find out!
Why is White Gold Not Pure White?
First, let’s understand that white gold is not naturally white. It is made by mixing pure gold with other metals like silver, palladium, or nickel. These metals give white gold its color and strength. So, white gold is actually a blend of different metals.
The Cause of Yellowing
White gold can turn yellow due to a process called oxidation. When white gold comes in contact with chemicals like perfume, lotion, or even sweat, it can cause a reaction that leads to yellowing. This is because these chemicals contain substances that can react with the metal alloys in white gold.
How to Prevent Yellowing
To keep your white gold jewelry looking bright and shiny, you can take a few simple steps:
1. Remove your white gold jewelry before applying lotions, perfumes, or any other chemicals.
2. Clean your white gold jewelry regularly using a mild soap and warm water.
3. Avoid wearing white gold jewelry while doing activities that may expose it to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Taking these precautions can help maintain the beauty of your white gold jewelry for a longer time.
What to Do if White Gold Turns Yellow
If your white gold jewelry has already turned yellow, don’t worry! You can have it restored to its original color. Jewelers can often replate white gold using a process called rhodium plating. Rhodium is a metal that is naturally resistant to tarnish and corrosion, so plating your white gold jewelry with rhodium will bring back its bright white appearance.
In Conclusion
White gold is not naturally white and can turn yellow over time due to oxidation caused by chemicals. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can prevent yellowing and enjoy the beauty of white gold jewelry for a long time. If yellowing does occur, rhodium plating can restore its original white color. So, take good care of your white gold jewelry, and it will continue to sparkle and shine!
