What is Gold Corrosion and Tarnish?
Gold corrosion is when gold deteriorates due to a chemical reaction with another substance. This
phenomenon is not easily induced because gold does not readily react with oxygen, unlike
metals. Here's what you should know;
Rust and tarnish are two forms of corrosion. Since gold is a metal, it cannot rust.
Tarnish can develop on gold alloys. Pure gold itself remains unaffected.
The fact that gold resists corrosion makes it highly valuable for applications.
The susceptibility of a gold alloy to tarnish depends on the metals it is combined with. For
instance, low-karat gold that contains base metals is more prone to corrosion.
The corrosion often observed on 14-karat gold jewellery is typically the result of exposure to
sweat, warmth and air.
Can Gold Rust? Unveiling the Truth
No, gold does not rust.
You might be wondering why this is so. Here's the explanation;
Gold is classified as a metal because it does not chemically react with oxygen or moisture;
therefore, it cannot form oxides or "rust."Pure gold, also known as 24-carat gold, can resist rust
and corrosion. However, it's important to note that most gold items are not entirely pure and are
combined with metals to increase durability. These alloys have the potential to rust or tarnish
over time. For instance, 14-carat gold jewellery is typically mixed with silver or copper.
It's worth remembering that the purity level in your gold piece can affect its resistance to
corrosion. While gold itself does not corrode, its alloys containing metals like silver and copper
may be susceptible when exposed to moisture and warmth. Think of it this way; even your sweat
could lead to corrosion on your 14-karat gold jewellery.
That being said, pure gold or gold alloyed with metals such as platinum exhibits resistance
against corrosion. So rest assured that your white gold earrings will remain intact for a time.
However, it's worth noting that if gold is alloyed with base metals like copper, it may be less
corrosion-resistant. So while you adore your ring infused with copper elements, it might also not
withstand the test of time.
Remember that finding the balance is crucial for gold alloys – a balanced composition ensures
wearability and resistance against tarnishing.
What, about your gold bullion?
There's almost no chance of it rusting, so you can feel confident knowing your investments are
secure.
Gold, despite its corrosion resistance, has the potential to develop a film of corrosion on its
surface. This susceptibility is more pronounced when gold is combined with alloys such as silver
or copper. Gold with karat values, which contains a proportion of base metals, is particularly
prone to this issue. Corrosion typically occurs when gold comes into contact with moisture or
specific chemicals found in sweat, fats or fatty acids.
For example, 14-karat gold can corrode under conditions like warmth, exposure to air and
contact with our body sweat. This process manifests as spots that spread across the surface of the
gold item. However, this can be alleviated by applying a layer of coating or lacquer to create a
barrier between the gold and its surroundings.
It's worth noting that tarnishing only occurs in gold when it comes into contact with sulfur
compounds over time. Enough everyday activities like using perfume or hairspray can accelerate
the tarnishing process. Additionally, variations in individual body chemistries and certain acidic
foods, like onions or pickles, can also contribute to speeding up the tarnishing process.
Did you know that gold interacts with sulfur and oxygen in its alloy mix, which can lead to surface corrosion?
So if you want to keep your gold jewellery looking great, you must be aware of these factors and
treat your pieces carefully!
You see, gold isn't always the star we often think it is! While pure gold won't rust, things start to
change when it forms an alloy with metals. This susceptibility becomes more apparent in lowerkarat gold containing several base metals.
Let me break it down for you in a nugget explanation; Alloys enhance the strength of gold. Also,
increase its reactivity. Mixed alloys with karat gold tend to be more susceptible to tarnishing.
Here's an exciting case; The International Reserve Payment System came across tarnish on coins
that were supposedly made of 999 gold. Quite surprising indeed!
Don't worry yet! Long as you take care of your gold items, they will remain physically and
electrically radiant within the temperature range of 55° to +200° Celsius.
It's worth noting that while gold itself is incredibly non-reactive, there are reactions that can
cause tarnishing. This usually happens due to impurities than the inherent reactivity of the gold
itself.
Here's what you should know;
Gold is not reactive with oxygen, even though oxygen is an element.
This means that gold doesn't rust or tarnish in conditions.
However, there was a case where thousands of 999 gold coins called "St George" issued by the
Central Russian Bank started to tarnish. The tarnishing is usually very thin. It becomes
noticeable as it darkens surfaces.
While other metals mixed with gold can tarnish, it doesn't affect the gold content because gold is
resistant to environmental reactions.
For instance, the "Purple Plague" is an example of a compound formed when gold bonds with
aluminium, potentially leading to failures in interconnection bonds.
Moisture and humidity
It can also affect gold. It can tarnish when exposed to these factors. Here are some tips for
preventing this;
Keep your gold stored in a dry place, away from sunlight. Use airtight containers—designed
bags to protect your precious metal.
Investing in an airtight jewellery box. Placing a silica gel packet inside will help absorb any
moisture.
Avoid using chemicals on your gold as they may cause tarnishing.
Keep your gold from soaps, as water and soap can speed up the process of tarnishing. If you own
gold coins, store them in sleeves or coin holders to prevent any tarnish. While gold is generally
resistant to air, heat and light, it can still undergo tarnishing due to its interactions with these
elements. Here's a simple breakdown; Even though gold doesn't rust it can still tarnish. This
happens when other metals in gold alloys react with elements and cause corrosion or tarnishing.
Excessive heat and light can also slightly alter the characteristics of your gold over time, leading
to some tarnishing. Although gold doesn't naturally react with air or water, the mixed alloys
might react under the circumstances. To prevent tarnishing, keep your gold stored in a dry place
away from direct sunlight. Use airtight containers. You specifically designed plastic bags for
metals when holding your gold. It's also essential to clean your gold using cleaning solutions
since chemicals and certain foods can also affect its appearance.
Certain substances, like chlorine or bleach found in swimming pools or cleaning products, can
cause your gold jewellery to lose its shine. Additionally, cosmetic items such as lotions,
perfumes and even certain acidic foods like lemons or pickles can also speed up the tarnishing
process of your gold accessories. For example, if you spray your perfume on your neck while
wearing a gold necklace, the chemicals in the perfume could accelerate the tarnishing. Therefore,
exercise caution and remove your gold items before taking a dip in the pool or applying any
fragrances.
Factors like body chemistry and personal belongings can influence gold jewelry.
Your body's natural secretions, including sweat that contains salts and acids, can react with
metals mixed with gold. Result in tarnish. Similarly, using products such as cologne, perfume,
hairspray or detergents near your jewellery can expedite this process. Here are a few factors to
consider;
1. Sweat; If you tend to perspire or engage in activities while wearing gold jewellery it may
accelerate tarnishing.
2. Hygiene products, cosmetics or perfumes; Frequent use of these items on areas where your
jewellery is worn can contribute to an increased formation rate.
Remember these tips to keep your gold shining for longer! Your diet plays a role in the
tarnishing of gold jewellery. Acidic foods like onions, spices, pickles and lemons can cause gold
to lose its shine if it comes into contact with them.
To summarize, the durability of gold is remarkable due to its reactive nature. It doesn't. Form
oxides when exposed to air or water. Gold is highly resistant to rust, corrosion and the natural
processes of decay. Here's a brief overview;
Gold holds value because it resists rust and corrosion.
Pure gold remains untarnished when exposed to the air.
Destroying gold at a level is virtually impossible.
Gold's durability dramatically contributes to its cost and desirability as an investment.
Even gold. Some jewellery pieces with lower gold content display resistance to decay.
The enduring quality of gold makes it a reliable and captivating long-term investment.
In conclusion, gold's resistance to rust and corrosion is a remarkable quality that adds to its value and desirability. While pure gold remains untarnished when exposed to the air, alloys in gold items can make them susceptible to corrosion and tarnish over time, particularly if exposed to moisture, warmth, or certain chemicals. Proper care, such as storing gold in dry places, avoiding exposure to certain substances, and understanding the factors that influence tarnishing, can help preserve your gold jewellery's radiant beauty and durability.