Stainless steel is a metal compound, known for its durability and affordability. However, people who may be considering it may be wondering or trying to find answers to this question: does stainless steel jewelry tarnish? You don’t want to buy a piece of jewelry that after a short time will wear off and become bare of the things that make it attractive and beautiful. Tarnish-free, corrosion-resistant, yet shiny and generally inexpensive, stainless steel is exactly what many people are looking for when desiring style without breaking the bank.
Benefits of Stainless Steel Jewelry
1. Does Not Get Tarnished Easily: Stainless steel often takes the title as the most durable and tarnish-free metal, yet like any other metal, it can eventually see wear. A better way to describe it would be that it doesn’t tarnish as easily or quickly as other metals, which makes it a popular choice among consumers.
2. Looks Like High-End Jewelry: Not only does stainless steel mimic the appearance of higher-end jewelry, but it also lasts longer than other types of metals. This would be a great choice for any special jewelry as it will last an incredible length of time and remain resistant-free.
3. Resistant to Wear and Tear: Another benefit being that it withstands the everyday wear and tear that your personal items go through. People who are generally rough with their hands throughout the day will find that stainless steel will be able to keep up with their constant movement and abrasion. It is important to take care of your jewelry because as with anything, eventual damage can be seen. Routine cleaning, polishing will allow it to be appreciated for years to come.
4. Versatility and Compatibility with Different Dress Styles: One of the other benefits of stainless steel is its ability to pair with any color scheme or clothing look. Whether it is with your athleisure, and again out on date night! Finding pieces that you are confident in and trust will sustain your lifestyle are a must as they will become staples in your wardrobe.
Does Stainless Jewelry Tarnish Your Skin?
Even though the number of people with sensitive skin that is allergic to stainless steel is very low, stainless steel is not considered a fully hypoallergenic material as it is compounded with other metals such as nickel. Most people won’t suffer an adverse reaction, but it is worth making sure that you are not sensitive to it. Those with generically sensitive skin will find that stainless steel is usually a better choice than other metals such as copper, which may turn your skin green after oxidization.
There is nothing worse than taking off a ring and seeing a band of green on your finger, so understanding what’s in your piece of jewelry before purchasing it is important. Luckily, stainless steel doesn’t contain the elements that would make someone prone to any skin tarnishing. Those with sensitivities will find these stainless steel jewelry products to be better options compared to other metals.
Does Stainless Steel Jewelry Tarnish When Wet?
Does stainless steel jewelry tarnish or rust when wet? No. You can wear stainless steel while showering, washing the dishes, gardening, or whatever you may be doing with water. This metal is built to be durable and sustainable in any environment, so don’t be afraid to live your life while wearing your jewelry. With that being said, it is generally not a good idea to go in a swimming pool while wearing jewelry because of the chemicals in the pool water.
Pool water (including water parks) is mixed with chlorine and other chemicals that may be too harsh for your jewelry. Try to limit exposure of your jewelry from substances that can cause any kind of damage to it. It may not be a good idea to be swimming with your jewelry.
Besides the fact that it can be exposed to harsh chemicals substances, you may easily lose it if it comes off from your body. Always think about where you are and what you are doing when wearing any type of jewelry, to limit exposure and damage and maximize their lifespans.
Does Stainless Steel Jewelry Fade?
Your stainless jewelry will not fade, but it is important to always take good care of it. Although it is a durable, scratch-resistant, and tarnish free metal, that doesn’t mean it isn’t susceptible to damage. This is the best type of metal in terms of fade level, because of how resistant it is to this type of impairment.
Wear your stainless steel pieces in style as it remains fade-free and always shining. It will gleam and look as glamourous as your other jewelry pieces as long as you remember to clean it!
Does Stainless Steel Jewelry Scratch?
In short, yes. Although labeled a scratch-resistant metal, there is the possibility it will become scratch damaged. Stainless steel can scratch, so it’s important you take special care of your jewelry. The best way to keep your pieces intact is to wear and store them in places where they won’t be in direct contact with other items. If something were to happen to your jewelry, it’s crucial that you take it to a jeweler so they can polish and repair it nicely.
Also keep in mind when cleaning these items yourself that it’s important you are always using soft materials. Try a soft cloth or something minimally abrasive in order to keep your jewelry as damage-free as possible. This may be known as a durable metal, but even the toughest can still get a few dings! If you are unsure or worried about doing this on your own, heading to the jewelers near you may be your best option.
Does Stainless Steel Rust?
Stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, giving it another reason to be more attractive. The chromium present within the stainless steel acts as a preventative barrier, disallowing any rust to form on the product. Of course, as with any type of metal, eventual damage is always a possibility so taking care of your jewelry is important.
Stay away from harsh environments and exposing your metal to conditions that could risk damaging the protective layer. If you feel as though your jewelry is damaged, be sure to head to a jeweler so they can determine the issue, don’t throw anything away!
How to Care for Stainless Steel Jewelry
Fortunately, cleaning your stainless-steel jewelry is extremely easy. Mix warm water with dish soap and use this solution to cleanse your items. Another method involves baking soda and water, molding it into a paste that can be applied to the item. You can definitely find low-budget, household methods to keep your jewelry intact.
But as always make sure you are avoiding any type of harsh chemicals. As stated earlier, avoid chlorine or other forms of harsh reactants that could potentially damage your items. The easiest solution is to think ahead and remove all jewelry before coming into contact with irritants!
Another thing to keep in mind when caring for your jewelry is to always read the labels. Just because a bottle may claim to be a jewelry cleaner, doesn’t mean that it is safe for your jewelry pieces. There are plenty of solutions that will claim they can do the job, but may end up damaging your jewelry in the long run.
If you aren’t sure how to handle your jewelry but don’t want to spend the money at a jeweler, you can still give them a call and ask for their recommendations. They will be the most appropriate place to turn to for a solution to your jewelry woes. Be cautious and smart about taking care of your stainless steel fashion jewelry so it will remain long-lasting and durable.
How to Store Stainless Steel Jewelry
It’s important to store your stainless steel separate from other pieces to ensure that wear and tear stays at a minimal level. Even though stainless steel is a durable metal, that doesn’t make it indestructible. The last thing you want is for your items to be scratched and damaged while in the company of your other jewelry. Try placing your pieces in soft bags or away from other items as a precautionary measure.
You can also pick up a jewelry organizer so you can store each individual piece in its own spot. This is a great solution anyway, as you will be able to see everything you have in one central location.
Styling Your Stainless Steel Jewelry
Leaning on the more affordable side of the scale, stainless steel is a great option for those trying to be fashionable, without breaking the bank. Depending on the design, style, and place you are purchasing from, shoppers will find pieces generally range in prices under $100. Of course, shopping in the higher end market will lead to a monetary shift, but that is a common occurrence in the fashion industry.
The online marketplace is another option, so check out sites like Amazon and Etsy that feature handcrafted work from sellers around the world. If you are opting for a higher-end purchase, you can find premium and luxury brands with entire selections to choose from of stainless steel pieces, of course on the pricier side. Be sure to shop around for pieces within your price range before committing to a purchase.
