What Causes Gold Jewelry to Turn Black? - Arakkal Gold & Diamonds
  • Book an Appointment
  • Gold Rate
    Today's Gold Rate
    24 KT(999) - AED. 409.00/g
    22 KT(916) - AED. 378.75/g
    18 KT(750) - AED. 311.25/g

    Updated on : 08/8/2025 09.30 AM

What Causes Gold Jewelry to Turn Black?

24 Jul 2025
What Causes Gold Jewelry to Turn Black?

Gold jewelry is admired for its timeless shine and elegance. But over time, many people notice their gold pieces developing black spots or losing their luster. While it might seem unexpected, this is a common and natural occurrence influenced by various environmental and lifestyle factors. Understanding why this happens can help you care for your jewelry better and preserve its brilliance, especially when shopping from trusted gold stores in Dubai.

1. Natural Reactions with the Environment

Gold jewelry is crafted using a blend of pure gold and other metals such as copper, silver, or zinc to enhance its strength and durability. While these combinations make jewelry suitable for daily wear, they can also react to certain environmental elements. Exposure to air, moisture, or even skin contact over time may cause these metals to oxidize, resulting in surface discoloration or blackening. This is a natural surface-level change that does not affect the value or integrity of the piece and can be easily corrected. Something to keep in mind when choosing quality gold jewelry in Dubai.

2. Reaction with Sweat and Skin

Our bodies constantly release natural oils, sweat, and mild acids. When you wear gold jewelry, especially in warm, humid climates or during physical activity, these substances can interact with the metal surface. Over time, this may cause a dark film or black patches to appear, particularly in areas where jewelry stays in close contact with the skin, such as rings, bracelets, and necklaces. This is especially common in items worn daily like gold bangles in Dubai, where frequent contact with skin can accelerate the process.

3. Contact with Chemicals

Gold jewelry is sensitive to the chemicals found in everyday personal care and household products. Perfumes, lotions, deodorants, hair sprays, and even soaps can cling to the surface of your jewelry. These substances may gradually react with the metal components, leading to fading, dullness, or blackening. Over time, frequent exposure to these products without proper cleaning can affect the appearance of your favorite pieces, including delicate items like gold earrings in Dubai.

4. Air Pollution and Humidity

Environmental conditions also play a role in the way jewelry ages. In areas with high levels of air pollution or humidity, sulfur compounds and other airborne particles can settle on your jewelry. These elements can interact with the metal and result in tarnishing or dark spots. This is especially common in jewelry that’s been stored for a long time without regular cleaning or maintenance. Regular care, especially when buying from the best jewelry shop in Dubai, ensures your pieces remain radiant and well preserved.

5. Improper Storage

The way you store your gold jewelry has a direct impact on its longevity and appearance. Jewelry that is left in open air, stored near cosmetics, or kept alongside other metals may be more prone to oxidation, discoloration, or surface dullness. Rough surfaces, moisture, and exposure to chemicals during storage can speed up these reactions and make your jewelry appear older or worn out more quickly than expected.

How to Fix It

  • Clean gently at home using mild liquid soap and warm water. Soak for a few minutes, then scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
  • For deeper cleaning, visit Arakkal Gold and Diamonds for expert polishing and ultrasonic cleaning.

At Arakkal Gold and Diamonds, every piece is crafted with care, quality, and attention to detail. We’re not just here to offer you exquisite jewelry; we’re here to help you care for it, preserve it, and keep it shining for generations. Whether you need professional cleaning, expert advice, or simply want to explore our timeless collections, visit your nearest Arakkal showroom. Our team is always ready to assist you with warmth, trust, and tradition.

 

Recent Blogs
Jewellery Trends We Expect To See Towards the End of 2023
16 Oct 2023
Jewellery Trends We Expect To See Towards the End of 2023

Clothes may make an individual. But it is statement jewellery that completes an individual. Trends in outfits can come and go, but a single accessory is enough to elevate an outfit. We at Arakkal Gold and Diamonds cannot stress enough about the importance of accessorising outfits in an appropriate manner.

Caring For Your Precious Investments – Maintenance Tips For Gold And Diamond Jewellery
15 Nov 2023
Caring For Your Precious Investments – Maintenance Tips For Gold And Diamond Jewellery

Investing in exquisite gold and diamond jewellery is a timeless venture that holds both sentimental and financial value. However, the true beauty of these precious pieces can only be maintained with proper care and attention. In this guide,

5 Trending Diamond Cuts To Consider For Your Jewellery
15 Jul 2024
5 Trending Diamond Cuts To Consider For Your Jewellery

Here are 5 popular cuts of diamonds that are bound to capture your fancy. Whether you are looking to invest in diamonds as a timeless investment or to gift the special lady in your life with her dream engagement ring, explore these popular choices:

Arakkal Assurance

Assured Lifetime Maintenance
Assured Lifetime Maintenance
Easy Exchange
Easy Exchange
14-Day Return Policy
14-Day Return Policy
Tested & Certified Diamonds
Tested & Certified Diamonds
On Gold Exchange
On Gold Exchange
Guaranteed Buyback
Guaranteed Buyback
916 Hallmarked Jewellery
916 Hallmarked Jewellery
On Diamond Exchange
On Diamond Exchange
All search results