How to Fix a Tarnished Gold Necklace: Repolishing and Repairing Non-Genuine Gold Jewelry

Have you ever noticed a necklace you bought recently turning brown or rusty? This is a common issue with non-genuine gold jewelry, particularly those coated with a gold finish that can wear off or react with the environment. Here’s how to fix a tarnished gold necklace and what steps you can take to prevent further issues.

Understanding Tarnished Gold Necklaces

When a gold necklace turns brown or rusty, it means the gold finish has worn off or has been affected by a chemical reaction. In the case of non-genuine gold, such as a piece not made of real gold but rather a metal coated with a gold finish, the gold layer may be thin and susceptible to wear and tarnishing over time.

Replicating and Cleaning

For those with a gold-plated necklace that’s showing signs of tarnish, the first step is to clean it. You can try washing it in hot water and dish soap, then gently scrubbing it with toothpaste and an old toothbrush. This can help remove surface dirt and tarnish. If that doesn’t work, the next step would be to immerse it in jewelry cleaning fluid. However, if the underlying metal is rusting, this may not be an effective solution. Rust indicates that the metal under the gold is likely steel, which is not suitable for jewelry and may not be salvageable.

Repolishing vs. Replating

When dealing with a gold-plated necklace, you may be tempted to replate it yourself, but this can be a costly and time-consuming process. It’s generally not recommended to try to replate a piece yourself unless you have the proper equipment and expertise.

For a more cost-effective and professional solution, consider taking the necklace to a professional jeweler. A reputable jeweler can assess the condition of the necklace and determine if re-plating is necessary. They can also provide a quote on the cost of re-plating or, if the necklace is beyond repair, advise on replacing it with a higher quality piece.

Preventing Tarnish in the Future

To prevent your jewelry from tarnishing in the future, it’s important to take proper care of it. Avoid exposing your gold-plated jewelry to harsh chemicals, including strong detergents and household cleaners. Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place, and use a soft cloth to clean it instead of abrasive materials.

When purchasing jewelry, consider investing in gold-filled or vermeil pieces. These are more durable and less likely to tarnish compared to gold-plated jewelry. Gold-filled items have a layer of gold bonded to a base metal, while vermeil is a gold-plated layer of at least 2.5 microns over a sterling silver base, providing a more lasting finish.

Non-Gold Jewelry Replication

For those interested in converting non-gold jewelry into genuine gold, it’s important to understand that this process can be complex and expensive. Non-gold jewelry can be made of various metals, and when these metals oxidize and tarnish, repainting can help. However, this process should be performed by a professional jeweler who uses high-quality materials.

If you decide to go this route, ensure you choose a reputable jeweler to avoid a subpar finish. The process of repainting involves removing the old metal layer and replacing it with a new one, which can greatly enhance the appearance and durability of your jewelry.

By taking proper care of your jewelry and choosing the right type of piece, you can ensure that it remains beautiful and durable for years to come.