Does stainless steel jewellery tarnish?

Stainless steel doesn’t tarnish the way silver or brass does. Our gold PVD-plated steel is covered by a 12-month tarnish guarantee.

Why steel keeps its colour

The chromium in stainless steel forms a protective layer that reacts to oxygen without darkening. That’s why steel looks the same after a shower, a workout or a day at the beach.

Gold PVD compared with classic gold plating

Classic plating is a thin layer of gold on brass or copper. It wears through, and the metal underneath darkens and can leave a mark on the skin. PVD bonds the colour to the steel itself, so it lasts much longer, and the metal underneath is steel, which doesn’t darken.

Silver darkens, and that’s normal

Sterling silver reacts with sulphur in the air and on the skin and slowly turns darker. It isn’t damage. A silver polishing cloth brings it back in a minute.

What can still affect your jewellery

Harsh chemicals (bleach, acetone, drain cleaner), deep scratches and years of friction on edges that rub against things daily. Take jewellery off for cleaning and for gym equipment.

Our guarantee

If a gold PVD steel piece tarnishes from normal everyday wear within 12 months of delivery, we replace it free of charge, or give you store credit if it is no longer available. Details are on the Warranty & Guarantee page.

Questions

Does stainless steel turn your skin green?

No; that comes from copper and brass, which our steel pieces don’t contain as a base.

How long does gold PVD last?

Much longer than classic plating; our gold PVD steel has a 12-month tarnish guarantee.

How do I clean darkened silver?

With a silver polishing cloth.

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