White gold is a popular choice for jewelry due to its durability, affordability, and sleek appearance. However, some people may notice that their white gold jewelry is turning yellow over time. This can be frustrating, especially if you’ve invested in a high-quality piece. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind white gold turning yellow and provide solutions to prevent or reverse this process.
What is White Gold?
Before we dive into the causes of white gold turning yellow, it’s essential to understand what white gold is. White gold is an alloy made from a combination of gold, silver, palladium, and zinc. The addition of these metals gives white gold its characteristic color and strength. The most common types of white gold are:
- 10k white gold (41.7% gold)
- 14k white gold (58.3% gold)
- 18k white gold (75% gold)
- 22k white gold (91.6% gold)
Causes of White Gold Turning Yellow
There are several reasons why white gold may turn yellow. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Rhodium Plating Wear-Off
Most white gold jewelry is plated with a thin layer of rhodium to enhance its color and durability. However, this plating can wear off over time, exposing the underlying metal. When the rhodium plating wears off, the white gold may appear yellow or gray.
2. Exposure to Chemicals
Chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, and detergents can damage the rhodium plating and cause the white gold to turn yellow. This is why it’s essential to avoid exposing your white gold jewelry to harsh chemicals.
3. Hard Water
Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can react with the metals in white gold, causing it to turn yellow.
4. Sweat and Body Chemistry
Sweat and body chemistry can also cause white gold to turn yellow. The acidity in sweat can react with the metals in white gold, leading to discoloration.
5. Poor Quality or Low-Karat White Gold
Low-karat white gold or poor-quality white gold jewelry may be more prone to turning yellow. This is because lower-karat white gold contains less gold and more base metals, which can react with chemicals and cause discoloration.
Solutions to Prevent White Gold from Turning Yellow
While it’s impossible to completely prevent white gold from turning yellow, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk:
1. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent the buildup of chemicals and minerals that can cause white gold to turn yellow. Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean your white gold jewelry, and avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals.
2. Rhodium Plating
Rhodium plating can help maintain the color and durability of white gold. If your white gold jewelry is starting to turn yellow, consider having it re-plated with rhodium.
3. Store Your Jewelry Properly
Storing your jewelry properly can help prevent exposure to chemicals and minerals that can cause white gold to turn yellow. Store your white gold jewelry in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
4. Avoid Exposure to Hard Water
Avoid exposing your white gold jewelry to hard water, as the minerals in the water can cause discoloration.
5. Consider Upgrading to High-Karat White Gold
If you’re concerned about your white gold jewelry turning yellow, consider upgrading to high-karat white gold. High-karat white gold contains more gold and fewer base metals, making it less prone to discoloration.
How to Reverse White Gold Turning Yellow
If your white gold jewelry has already turned yellow, there are several steps you can take to reverse the process:
1. Rhodium Plating
Rhodium plating can help restore the color and durability of white gold. If your white gold jewelry has turned yellow, consider having it re-plated with rhodium.
2. Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning can help remove dirt and grime that may be contributing to the yellow color. Use an ultrasonic cleaner specifically designed for jewelry, and avoid exposing your white gold to harsh chemicals.
3. Polishing
Polishing can help remove scratches and imperfections that may be contributing to the yellow color. Use a soft cloth and mild soap to polish your white gold jewelry, and avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
White gold turning yellow can be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the world. By understanding the causes of white gold turning yellow and taking steps to prevent or reverse the process, you can keep your white gold jewelry looking its best. Remember to clean and maintain your white gold regularly, store it properly, and avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals. With proper care and maintenance, your white gold jewelry can last for years to come.
Additional Tips
- Avoid wearing your white gold jewelry while swimming or engaging in activities that involve harsh chemicals.
- Use a soft cloth to clean your white gold jewelry, and avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals.
- Consider having your white gold jewelry re-plated with rhodium every 5-10 years to maintain its color and durability.
- Store your white gold jewelry in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid exposing your white gold jewelry to hard water, as the minerals in the water can cause discoloration.
By following these tips and taking steps to prevent or reverse white gold turning yellow, you can keep your white gold jewelry looking its best for years to come.
What causes white gold to turn yellow?
White gold turning yellow is often caused by the natural process of oxidation, which occurs when the metal reacts with air and moisture. This reaction can cause the rhodium plating, which gives white gold its characteristic white color, to wear off and expose the underlying metal. As a result, the white gold may take on a yellowish hue. Additionally, exposure to certain chemicals, such as bleach or chlorine, can also contribute to the discoloration of white gold.
It’s worth noting that some types of white gold are more prone to turning yellow than others. For example, white gold alloys that contain nickel or silver may be more likely to discolor over time, while those that contain palladium or zinc may be less likely to do so. Understanding the composition of your white gold jewelry can help you take steps to prevent or address discoloration.
How can I prevent my white gold from turning yellow?
To prevent white gold from turning yellow, it’s essential to take good care of your jewelry. This includes storing it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. You should also avoid exposing your white gold jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as bleach or chlorine, and remove it before swimming or engaging in activities that may cause excessive sweating. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help to prevent discoloration.
In addition to these general care tips, you can also consider having your white gold jewelry rhodium-plated periodically to maintain its white color. This process involves applying a thin layer of rhodium to the surface of the metal, which can help to restore its original color and prevent discoloration. Your jeweler can advise you on the best maintenance schedule for your specific piece of jewelry.
Can I fix white gold that has turned yellow?
If your white gold has turned yellow, there are several options for restoring its original color. One common solution is to have the jewelry rhodium-plated, which can help to cover up the discoloration and restore the metal’s white appearance. This process is relatively inexpensive and can be done by a professional jeweler. In some cases, it may also be possible to repair or replace the underlying metal to restore the jewelry’s original color.
It’s worth noting that not all white gold jewelry can be restored to its original color. If the discoloration is severe or the metal is damaged, it may be more difficult or expensive to repair. In such cases, it may be necessary to consider replacing the jewelry altogether. Your jeweler can advise you on the best course of action for your specific piece of jewelry.
How often should I have my white gold jewelry rhodium-plated?
The frequency at which you should have your white gold jewelry rhodium-plated depends on several factors, including the type of metal, the quality of the plating, and how often you wear the jewelry. As a general rule, it’s recommended to have your white gold jewelry rhodium-plated every 1-3 years, or as needed. If you wear your jewelry frequently, you may need to have it plated more often to maintain its color.
It’s also worth noting that some types of white gold jewelry may require more frequent plating than others. For example, jewelry with intricate details or engravings may be more prone to wear and tear, and may require more frequent plating to maintain its appearance. Your jeweler can advise you on the best maintenance schedule for your specific piece of jewelry.
Is rhodium plating safe for my skin?
Rhodium plating is generally considered safe for most people’s skin. However, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to the metal. If you experience any redness, itching, or discomfort after wearing rhodium-plated jewelry, you should remove the jewelry and consult with a healthcare professional.
It’s also worth noting that some types of rhodium plating may be more hypoallergenic than others. For example, plating that is done using a nickel-free process may be less likely to cause skin irritation. If you have sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to consult with your jeweler about the best options for rhodium plating.
Can I rhodium-plate my white gold jewelry at home?
While it is technically possible to rhodium-plate white gold jewelry at home, it is not generally recommended. Rhodium plating requires specialized equipment and expertise to do correctly, and attempting to do it yourself can result in a poor-quality finish or damage to the metal.
Additionally, many commercial rhodium plating kits available for purchase online may not be suitable for use on fine jewelry, and may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the metal or harm your skin. For best results, it’s recommended to have your white gold jewelry rhodium-plated by a professional jeweler who has the necessary training and equipment.
How much does it cost to rhodium-plate white gold jewelry?
The cost of rhodium plating white gold jewelry can vary depending on several factors, including the type and quality of the metal, the size and complexity of the piece, and the location and expertise of the jeweler. On average, the cost of rhodium plating can range from $20 to $100 or more per piece, depending on the specifics of the job.
It’s worth noting that while rhodium plating can be a cost-effective way to restore the appearance of your white gold jewelry, it may not be the most cost-effective option in the long run. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the jewelry altogether, especially if the metal is damaged or of poor quality. Your jeweler can advise you on the best options for your specific piece of jewelry.