WHAT KIND OF JEWELRY DOES NOT RUST?
Here's a list of what you'll learn in this post:
- First, what causes jewelry metals to rust?
- What is the difference between corrosion and rust?
- What metals don't rust: top 10
- How to get rust off of jewelry:
- How to prevent the rusting process:
Rusting is a form of corrosion that occurs when you expose your jewelry pieces to oxygen and moisture. If left untreated, rusting can cause your pieces to break down and become brittle. But not all jewelry metals are susceptible to rusting. Some metals, like pure gold and platinum, are resistant to corrosion. Read on for a list of some of the best metals in jewelry that won't rust.
FIRST, WHAT CAUSES JEWELRY METALS TO RUST?
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CORROSION AND RUST?
WHAT JEWELRY DOESN'T RUST: TOP 10
Do not assume that just because these metals do not rust, they do not corrode. They each encounter various forms of corrosion, such as the bluish-green patina that forms on oxidized copper or the pitting that occurs in stainless steel.
1. ALUMINUM METAL
Aluminum is one of the most common metals on the planet, and it is perhaps best known for not rusting because aluminum contains only trace amounts of iron; it is rustproof.
2. BRASS METAL
Brass is another common jewelry metal that does experience rusting because it contains minimal iron (similar to aluminum).
3. BRONZE METAL
Due to the small amount of iron present, bronze metal does not experience rusting.
4. COPPER METAL
5. CORTEN OR WEATHERING STEEL
6. GALVANIZED STEEL
7. PURE GOLD JEWELRY
8. PLATINUM METAL
9. PURE SILVER METAL
Pure silver does not experience rusting since it does not contain iron, which is the main factor in metal corrosion. However, pure silver does develop a silver sulfide patina, which makes it look tarnished. A silver sulfide patina develops on pure silver when it is exposed to sulfur compounds in the air. The patina can be removed by polishing or cleaning with a special jewelry cleaner so it does not damage the silver metal itself. Hence, pure silver does not corrode like iron-containing metals.
10. STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY
HOW TO GET RUST OFF OF JEWELRY
1. BAKING SODA:
Whether you're trying to clean up your bike chain or trying to remove tarnish from an old necklace, baking soda is the answer. Its mild abrasive properties make it great for scrubbing away oxidation without damaging the metals underneath.
First, mix a tablespoon of baking soda and two tablespoons of water to create a paste. Next, apply the paste to your jewelry and allow the paste to sit for a few minutes. Then, grab a soft-bristled toothbrush and scrub your pieces. Finally, rinse your jewelry with fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a soft, clean cloth.
2. WHITE VINEGAR:
3. LEMON ACID:
HOW TO PREVENT THE RUSTING PROCESS:
1. REMOVE JEWELRY BEFORE SWIMMING
2. APPLY A SEALANT SPRAY
3. USE CLEAR NAIL POLISH
4. UTILIZE CLEAR BAGS
If possible, keep each piece of jewelry in its own sealable bag. Even if the pieces are stored in an airtight container, the additional layer of plastic can help keep the air out. Place your necklaces, bangles, and earrings in clear plastic bags that allow you to see inside without exposing the pieces to moisture.
5. USE SILICA GEL PACKS
6. CLEAN YOUR PIECES REGULARLY
Cleaning your pieces regularly is the key to ensuring that your jewelry doesn't rust. Keep in mind that some materials are more difficult to clean than others, so make sure you know what cleaning methods should be used. Fortunately, jewelry made of metals such as titanium and aluminum don't require much maintenance - they won't rust, and a simple wipe down with a cloth will do the job!
7. AVOID CONTACT WITH CHEMICALS
WRAPPING UP
Rust can be a pesky problem, but with the right precautions and regular maintenance, you can keep your jewelry looking shiny and new. Remember that certain metals like titanium, tungsten, and gold don’t rust, and so are great options if you want to avoid rust altogether. Thanks for reading!