Why Jewelry Tarnishes, and How to Stop It for Good
Share
Keep your pieces brilliant for years to come with these simple care tips (and a tarnish-free alternative you’ll love).
There’s something undeniably special about slipping on your favorite piece of jewelry—whether it’s a delicate gold chain, a statement ring, or a pair of timeless hoops. But few things are more disappointing than watching that once-radiant shine fade into a dull, discolored surface.
If you’ve ever asked yourself “why does my jewelry tarnish so quickly?”, you’re not alone. Tarnishing is one of the most common frustrations jewelry lovers face, but the good news is that it can be prevented—with the right knowledge and care.
At Swanihei, we believe your jewelry should shine with you—every day, everywhere, without compromise. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to create waterproof, tarnish-free jewelry that lasts. But before we dive into the solution, let’s uncover what causes tarnishing in the first place.
What Causes Jewelry to Tarnish?
Tarnish is a thin layer of corrosion that forms on metals as they react to elements in the environment. It doesn’t mean your jewelry is ruined—but it’s definitely not a look most people love.
Here are the main culprits behind that unwanted tarnish:
1. Moisture and Humidity
Water is one of the biggest enemies of traditional jewelry. Even the smallest bit of moisture—whether from hand-washing, a shower, or summer sweat—can cause metals like silver, brass, or plated gold to oxidize and tarnish over time.
2. Air (Specifically, Oxygen and Sulfur)
Air contains sulfur compounds that react with metals. This chemical reaction—especially when combined with humidity—can cause discoloration or a darkened surface, particularly with silver and low-quality alloys.
3. Skin Oils and Sweat
Natural oils from your skin (plus acids in sweat) can wear away protective coatings on plated jewelry or cause metal to react, especially during intense physical activity or warm weather.
4. Cosmetics and Chemicals
Lotion, perfume, sunscreen, and even certain soaps or hand sanitizers can damage the finish of your jewelry. These products contain chemicals that break down protective layers and accelerate tarnishing.
5. Poor Quality Materials
Low-grade metals or thinly-plated pieces simply aren’t built to last. They may look beautiful at first, but with regular wear, they’re prone to fading, flaking, or turning green.
How to Stop Jewelry Tarnishing
Now that you know why jewelry tarnishes, here are some simple, effective ways to prevent it and keep your pieces looking new.
✦ Keep It Dry
Remove your jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising. Always dry your hands thoroughly before handling your favorite pieces.
✦ Store It Properly
Air-tight jewelry boxes, anti-tarnish pouches, or even ziplock bags can significantly reduce exposure to air and moisture. Keep different metals separate to avoid scratching or chemical reactions.
✦ Clean It Regularly
Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down your jewelry after wearing it. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap and warm water solution, then dry immediately with a soft towel.
✦ Avoid Chemicals
Apply lotions, perfume, and hair products before putting on your jewelry—and remove them when using cleaning agents or skincare products.
Tired of Tarnishing? Discover Swanihei: Jewelry That’s Built to Last
At Swanihei, we asked the same question you’re asking now: Why should we have to take off our jewelry just to protect it?
Our answer? You shouldn’t have to. That’s why we created a collection of waterproof, tarnish-free jewelry designed to keep up with your lifestyle.
Made with high-quality stainless steel and PVD gold plating, our pieces are engineered to resist water, sweat, and daily wear—without losing their shine. No more green fingers. No more cloudy rings. Just effortless elegance, day in and day out.
Whether you're hitting the beach, taking a shower, or just running errands, your Swanihei piece will stay as stunning as the day you got it.
Real-World Wear, Real Results
Visit our Reviews Page to see what our customers say:
“I’ve worn my necklace every day for months—even in the shower—and it still looks brand new!”
— Mia, Swanihei customer
“Finally, jewelry that can actually handle my busy life. No tarnish, no fuss.”
— Layla, Swanihei customer
From minimalists building a capsule wardrobe to moms who don’t have time to baby their accessories, our jewelry is made for women who want beauty and durability in one.
Make the Switch to Tarnish-Free Jewelry
If you’re tired of polishing, replacing, or retiring your favorite pieces too soon, it’s time to try something different. Swanihei offers the perfect solution for women who love jewelry but hate the hassle of upkeep.
With designs that are elegant, minimal, and built for everyday wear, our collections are perfect for:
-
Daily wearers who want low-maintenance sparkle
-
Travelers who need reliable, worry-free pieces
-
Gift-givers looking for meaningful, long-lasting options
-
Style lovers building a timeless, mix-and-match collection
Final Thoughts
Tarnishing might be a natural process—but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for it. With the right knowledge, care tips, and quality materials, you can preserve your jewelry’s brilliance and enjoy it for years to come.
Or better yet—never worry about tarnishing again.
Choose Swanihei for timeless, tarnish-free jewelry that fits your lifestyle and your standards.
✨ Explore our bestsellers today and find the piece you’ll never want (or need) to take off.
🔗 Browse the collection
