Oxidized jewellery is a modern fashion trend because of its vintage and antique appearance. With time, however, the stunning jewellery loses its shine and becomes dull. This has been a common issue among jewellery lovers who want to preserve the original charm of their jewellery. But why does oxidized jewellery lose its shine, and how can it be recovered? In this blog, we will tell you why this happens and provide you with some useful tips to recover the beauty of oxidized jewellery.
What is Oxidized Jewellery?
Oxidized jewellery is produced by a special process in which silver or other metals are treated to a controlled oxidation process. This produces a darkened, antique look for the jewellery, and the jewellery looks unique and stylish.
- Close-up shot of oxidized jewellery with detailed designs.
- Why Does Oxidized Jewellery Lose Its Shine?
There are several reasons why shine of oxidized jewellery is lost:
1. Exposure to Air and Moisture
Metals naturally oxidize when they come in contact with air and moisture. The blackened surface may become worn off with time, giving it a dull look.
2. Contact with Sweat and Skin Oils
Ongoing contact with skin and sweat hasten the degradation process. Sweat chemicals further react with the jewellery, eroding its oxidized layer.
3. Chemical Reactions with Perfumes and Lotions
Perfumes, lotions, and certain cosmetic products contain chemicals that form chemical reactions with the oxidized layer, exhausting it prematurely.
4. Frequent Handling and Rubbing
Daily wear and tear due to handling, rubbing, or piling up with other pieces of jewellery cause the oxidised coating to fade.
5. Improper Storage
Storing oxidized jewellery in open air or with other metal jewellery can speed up the loss of shine due to oxidation and friction.
Applicable Photo Idea:
- Comparison between a new oxidized jewellery and a worn out one.
- Hacks to Recover Oxidized Jewellery
It is possible to repair oxidized jewellery without any difficulty provided you employ appropriate methods. There are some practical tips that I have mentioned below:
1.Cleaning with Water and Baking Soda
Make a paste using water and baking soda. Gently rub it on the jewellery using a soft cloth, then rinse and dry.
2. Polishing with Toothpaste
Non-gel toothpaste serves as a mild abrasive that gets rid of dirt and brings back the sparkle of the jewellery. Use a toothbrush to apply it and clean it gently.
3. Salt and Vinegar Solution
A mixture of vinegar and salt is a homemade cleaner. Soak the jewellery in the solution for a few minutes, rinse, and dry.
4. Lemon Juice to Give Natural Shine
Lemon juice has acidic properties that polish and clean oxidized jewellery. Soak the work in lemon juice for a minute or two and scrub carefully.
5. Commercial Jewellery Cleaners
Commercial jewellery cleaning solutions that have been specifically made for oxidized jewellery can be used to restore effectively.
6. Re-Oxidizing the Jewellery
If the oxidized coating has been severely worn off, you can re-oxidize using liver of sulphur or professional services.
Relevant Photo Idea:
- Sequential photos of removing oxidized jewellery with various techniques.
- How to Prevent Oxidized Jewellery from Losing Shine
Prevention is better than cure. This is how you can maintain your oxidized jewellery in a brand-new condition for a longer duration:
1. Store Properly
Keep oxidized jewellery in airtight zip-lock bags to reduce exposure to air and moisture.
2. Avoid Water and Sweat
Remove jewellery before showering, swimming, or engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating.
3. Keep Away from Chemicals
Apply perfumes, lotions, and makeup before wearing jewellery to prevent chemical reactions.
4. Clean Regularly
Clean jewellery with a soft, dry cloth every time it is used to remove oils and dirt.
5. Separate Storage
Keep oxidized jewellery away from other metal jewellery to prevent scratching and friction.
Jewellery in zip-lock bags or air-tight containers.
Conclusion
Oxidized jewellery is an ageless piece to be added to your collection, yet it needs attention to preserve its beauty. Learning why it taints its shine and employing restoration methods will ensure your best-loved jewellery remains sophisticated-looking. Basic household remedies and protection methods do more than enough in keeping the aesthetic of oxidized jewellery intact in the years ahead.
Before-and-after restoration photos of oxidized jewellery.