What’s It Called When Jewelry Rusts?

Picture this: you’ve just picked out a beautiful piece of jewelry, whether it's a stunning everyday gold necklace for women or a sleek bracelet from your favorite everyday jewelry brand.

You wear it all the time, showing it off to friends, but then… you start to notice something.

The shine isn’t as brilliant, and there’s a hint of discoloration. Maybe even rust. Yep, rust. But wait, isn’t jewelry supposed to last forever?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone in this. Jewelry rusting happens more often than you’d think, and it’s one of those frustrating but fixable issues.

So, what’s going on when jewelry rusts? What’s it even called when it happens? And most importantly, how can you stop it from ruining your favorite pieces?

In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about jewelry rust, including why it happens, how to prevent it, and what to do if it’s already too late. Let’s dive in!

What Does It Mean When Jewelry Rusts?

When we talk about jewelry rusting, we’re usually referring to oxidation or corrosion. These terms describe the process where metals react with moisture, air, and other elements, resulting in the breakdown of the metal’s surface.

This reaction can cause a dull appearance, discoloration, or, in extreme cases, actual rust.

While rusting is a term most commonly associated with iron or steel, the process can happen to jewelry, too, especially when it’s made from metals prone to oxidation.

It’s particularly common in cheap jewelry or base metals like copper, brass, and alloy-based materials.

This is why your everyday jewelry for women might develop that unsightly patina or rust over time.

But don’t panic! This doesn't mean your jewelry is a lost cause—let’s explore the types of jewelry most susceptible to rusting.

What Types of Jewelry Are Prone to Rusting?

Not all jewelry is created equal, and the materials used can significantly impact whether or not it will rust. Here’s a rundown of the metals and materials that are most likely to rust:

Copper

Copper is one of the most common metals that rusts, especially when exposed to moisture or sweat.

The greenish tarnish you often see on copper jewelry is copper oxide. This is a form of rust that forms when the copper reacts with moisture in the air.

• Pro Tip: If you have a copper bracelet or ring, be aware that it may discolor your skin too (hello, green marks!). The oxidation process can leave behind marks on your skin as well.

Brass

Brass, made of copper and zinc, is often used in costume jewelry or less expensive designer jewelry.

Over time, it can tarnish and develop a yellowish-brown appearance, which is a form of rust.

While it may not always form actual “rust,” it can still look dull and tarnished, especially in humid environments.

Alloy-Based Jewelry

Jewelry made from alloys (a mixture of metals) often contains copper, nickel, or zinc. These metals are susceptible to oxidation, which is why cheap costume jewelry is especially prone to rusting.

Over time, the alloy’s protective coating wears off, allowing moisture to corrode the metal underneath.

Silver-Plated Jewelry

Silver-plated jewelry features a thin layer of silver applied to a base metal, like copper or brass.

While the silver itself won’t rust, the base metal beneath it can, causing the piece to tarnish and deteriorate. This process is slower but still noticeable over time.

Gold-Plated Jewelry

Similar to silver-plated jewelry, gold-plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold over a base metal.

Once the gold plating starts to wear off, the base metal underneath is exposed, which can rust if it’s made from copper or brass.

What’s the Difference Between Rust and Tarnish?

We often hear the terms “rust” and “tarnish” used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same thing. Both are caused by oxidation, but here’s how they differ:

• Rust typically refers to iron or steel undergoing corrosion. It leads to flaking and a red-brown discoloration.
• Tarnish, on the other hand, is the result of silver or other metals (like copper or brass) reacting with sulfur or oxygen in the air. It doesn’t flake off, but rather forms a dull film or discoloration over the surface.

In jewelry, what’s commonly called “rust” is usually tarnish or oxidation, especially when it comes to non-iron-based jewelry.

If your everyday jewelry is rusting, it’s more likely oxidizing or tarnishing rather than true rusting (unless it’s made from steel).

How to Prevent Jewelry from Rusting

Now that we know why jewelry rusts, let’s discuss how to prevent it from happening in the first place. With a few simple precautions, you can keep your jewelry looking shiny and new for years to come.

Keep Your Jewelry Dry

Moisture is one of the leading causes of rust and tarnish, so try to keep your jewelry dry. Avoid wearing jewelry while swimming, showering, or exercising.

If your jewelry gets wet, be sure to dry it thoroughly before wearing it again.

Store Jewelry Properly

Storing your jewelry in a dry, cool place can go a long way in preventing rust. When not in use, keep your pieces in a jewelry box or a soft cloth pouch to protect them from moisture.

A silica gel packet can help absorb excess moisture if you’re storing multiple pieces together.

Clean Jewelry Regularly

Regular cleaning can help maintain the appearance of your jewelry and prevent oxidation.

For silver jewelry, use a polishing cloth to remove tarnish, and for gold-plated jewelry, use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe away any buildup.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Chemicals, lotions, perfumes, and even harsh soaps can cause damage to your jewelry’s surface. When applying these products, make sure to remove your jewelry first to avoid corrosion.

Choose Higher-Quality Metals

If you want to avoid rust altogether, opt for higher-quality materials like sterling silver, stainless steel, or solid gold for your everyday wear jewelry.

These metals are more resistant to tarnishing and rusting, making them a better investment for long-lasting wear.

What to Do If Your Jewelry Rusts or Tarnishes

If it’s too late, and your jewelry has already started to tarnish or rust, don’t panic! Here are a few ways to restore it:

Clean It with a Jewelry Cleaner

Use a jewelry cleaning solution designed for the specific metal (like silver or gold) to restore its shine. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner to avoid further damage.

Use a DIY Cleaning Solution

For silver jewelry, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water or a small amount of toothpaste on a soft cloth. For brass or copper, try using lemon juice or vinegar to clean off the rust.

Polish the Surface

If your jewelry is only slightly tarnished, you can buff the surface with a soft cloth or jewelry cloth to restore its shine. Avoid using abrasive materials, as they can scratch the surface.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I wear jewelry in the shower?

It’s best to avoid wearing jewelry in the shower, especially if it’s made from copper, brass, or any other base metal. Water and soap can accelerate the tarnishing process.

2. How do I stop my jewelry from turning green?

Green discoloration often occurs due to copper and other metals reacting with sweat and moisture.

To prevent this, opt for hypoallergenic metals like stainless steel or sterling silver, and keep your jewelry dry and clean.

3. Can rust on jewelry be removed?

Yes! While rust may be difficult to completely remove, cleaning solutions, DIY methods, and professional cleaning can help restore your jewelry to its former glory.

Conclusion: Keep Your Jewelry Rust-Free with Proper Care

Jewelry rusting doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your favorite pieces. By understanding what causes rust and oxidation in jewelry, you can take steps to avoid it and preserve your beloved accessories for longer.

Choose high-quality metals like sterling silver and stainless steel, keep your jewelry dry, and clean it regularly to prevent damage. And if your pieces do start to rust or tarnish, a little care can go a long way in bringing them back to life.

So, what are you waiting for? Keep your jewelry looking pristine and rust-free with these simple maintenance tips. Happy wearing!