Lance Carson
Many people spritz their favourite perfume on their skin without considering the impact on their jewellery. However, the chemicals in perfumes, such as alcohol and oils, can react with the metals in jewellery, leading to tarnishing, discolouration, or corrosion. While gold is relatively inert and resistant to tarnishing, the alloys it is mixed with may react with perfumes, causing discolouration and a dulling of its sheen. Similarly, silver is prone to oxidisation and can quickly turn black when exposed to perfume. Diamonds and other natural gemstones are also susceptible to damage from the essential oils in perfumes, which can leave a pale yellow hue and reduce their shine and value. Pearls are particularly vulnerable to perfumes, suffering discolouration, loss of texture, and shine. To prevent damage, it is recommended to apply perfume before putting on jewellery and to regularly clean jewellery to remove any build-up.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Jewelry to avoid | Costume jewelry, pearls, sterling silver, imitation jewelry, diamond jewelry, gold jewelry |
| Jewelry that is safe | Precious metals, platinum, gold |
| Prevention methods | Apply perfume before putting on jewelry, wipe jewelry with a soft cloth if exposed to perfume, store jewelry in a dry place |
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What You'll Learn
- Pearls are the most susceptible to damage from perfumes
- Diamonds and other natural gemstones are prone to damage from essential oils in perfumes
- Silver jewellery can turn black or green when exposed to perfume
- Gold jewellery can be affected by the chemicals in perfumes
- Perfumes can corrode the metal alloys that gold jewellery comprises
Pearls are the most susceptible to damage from perfumes
Pearls are extremely susceptible to damage from perfumes. While gold and silver jewellery can withstand perfumes to a certain degree, pearls can suffer discolouration, loss of texture, and shine when exposed to perfumes. The essential oils, ethyl alcohol, colourants, solids, and other chemicals present in perfumes are often to be blamed for this damage.
Since pearls are organic gems formed within oyster shells, they are softer and more delicate than other gemstones. They are also highly porous, which means they can easily absorb liquids and chemicals. When perfume is sprayed on or near pearls, the chemicals in the perfume can be absorbed into the pearl's surface, causing discolouration and a loss of shine. Over time, the pearl's delicate surface can become rough and dull, reducing its value.
To prevent damage, it is recommended to avoid spraying perfume directly onto pearls or wearing them shortly after applying perfume. It is best to allow the perfume to dry completely before putting on pearl jewellery. Additionally, storing pearls in clean and dry zip-lock bags can help protect them from physical damage and moisture.
While some people suggest that organic perfumes, fragrances, and oils may be safer for jewellery, it is important to remember that these substances can still contain chemicals that can damage pearls. Therefore, it is always best to avoid direct contact between pearls and any type of perfume or fragrance.
In conclusion, pearls are highly susceptible to damage from perfumes due to their organic nature and porous surface. To maintain the beauty and value of pearl jewellery, it is essential to take precautions and avoid exposing them to perfumes or fragrances. With proper care and handling, pearl jewellery can be enjoyed for many years without losing its lustre and appeal.
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Diamonds and other natural gemstones are prone to damage from essential oils in perfumes
Diamonds are one of the hardest natural materials in the world, formed under intense heat and pressure over millions of years. Therefore, it is commonly assumed that diamonds and other natural gemstones would be impervious to perfumes. However, this is not the case.
Diamonds and other natural gemstones are prone to damage from the essential oils contained in perfumes. The build-up of these oils on diamonds may result in a pale yellow hue that is difficult to get rid of. The essential oils in perfumes, if not cleaned regularly, can also leave a coat of oil that starts to discolour the jewel mountings. The presence of chemicals in perfumes can reduce the brilliance of diamonds, taking away their inherent shine and potentially resulting in a loss of value.
To prevent this, it is recommended to apply perfume to the skin and let it dry before putting on jewellery. This simple practice can help avoid harm to gold, silver, and diamond jewellery. It is also advised to wipe jewellery with a soft cloth after wearing it to remove dust, body oils, and chemicals that can cause damage.
In the case of pearl jewellery, it is best to avoid wearing perfume simultaneously, as pearls are highly susceptible to damage from perfumes. If necessary, it is recommended to wait at least 10 to 15 minutes after applying perfume before putting on pearl jewellery.
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Silver jewellery can turn black or green when exposed to perfume
While perfumes do not have a direct reaction with pure gold, they can corrode the metal alloys that gold jewellery comprises. Gold itself is a relatively inert metal and does not tarnish, but it can be affected by other elements in the environment. The perfume can often lead to the discolouration of this precious metal or simply dull its sheen, both of which directly impact the look and appeal of the jewellery piece.
The amount of tarnishing is determined by the relative humidity, ambient temperature, gas concentration, and the length of time the silver is exposed to the gases. Many things can speed up the tarnishing process, including air pollution, the minerals in your water (and as such wearing your silver jewellery in the shower can speed up this process too), living or working near a chemical, electric or manufacturing plant, and recent studies have shown that using a silver cleaning cloth can also cause tarnishing.
To prevent discolouration, it is recommended to apply perfumes and lotions before putting on your jewellery. If you are out and about, or otherwise in a situation where it might not be possible to remove your jewellery, apply the product, and then put the jewellery back on. Consider a fortnightly cleaning routine for your jewels. This will mean less gunk in gemstone settings from creams and will remove that sticky layer from golden surfaces that reduces their shine and damages gold platings.
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Gold jewellery can be affected by the chemicals in perfumes
Pure gold (24-karat gold) is less likely to tarnish or corrode because it is not alloyed with other metals. However, gold jewellery is usually made with alloys to increase its strength and durability. For example, 9-karat gold contains 37.5% pure gold and 62.5% other metals, typically copper and silver. While 9-karat gold generally does not tarnish, the other metals in the alloy may react with the chemicals in perfumes, causing discolouration or a loss of sheen.
The essential oils, ethyl alcohol, and colourants in perfumes can build up on gold jewellery, reducing their shine and damaging gold platings. This can result in a sticky layer on the surface of the jewellery, which can be difficult to remove. Therefore, it is recommended to apply perfumes and lotions before putting on gold jewellery. If this is not possible, it is advised to clean gold jewellery regularly to prevent the build-up of chemicals and maintain its appearance.
Additionally, it is recommended to remove gold jewellery before showering, swimming, or engaging in activities that involve excessive moisture or exposure to chemicals. This is because moisture can affect the plating of gold jewellery, and shower products can impact its appearance over time. Proper storage of gold jewellery in a dry place, such as a jewellery box or pouch, can also help protect it from humidity and other environmental factors that may cause damage.
It is worth noting that some sources suggest that real gold can withstand the chemicals in perfumes. However, it is generally advised to avoid direct contact between perfumes and gold jewellery to maintain its longevity and appearance.
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Perfumes can corrode the metal alloys that gold jewellery comprises
Gold is a highly ductile and malleable metal that does not tarnish. However, it is often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength and durability. These alloys, usually copper and silver, can react with the chemicals in perfumes, such as alcohol and essential oils, leading to tarnishing or discolouration of the jewellery.
For example, 9ct gold, also known as 9 karat gold, is an alloy that contains 37.5% pure gold and 62.5% other metals, typically copper and silver. While the gold content is relatively low and does not tarnish, the other metals in the alloy may react with the chemicals in perfumes. This can result in the jewellery losing its shine and appeal over time.
Similarly, sterling silver jewellery can also be affected by perfumes. Sterling silver contains copper, and when exposed to the chemicals and moisture in perfumes, it can turn green. This reaction can also occur with other metals that contain copper, such as brass.
To prevent corrosion and discolouration, it is recommended to apply perfumes and lotions before putting on your jewellery. Regular cleaning and proper care can also help maintain the shine and appearance of gold jewellery. Additionally, storing jewellery in a dry place, such as a jewellery box or pouch, can protect it from humidity and other environmental factors that may contain corrosive chemicals.
While the effects of perfumes on gold alloys can be mitigated with proper care, it is important to note that perfumes can permanently damage imitation jewellery. This is due to the comparatively poor quality of metals and alloys used in their design. Therefore, it is always advisable to treat your jewellery with care and avoid direct contact with perfumes to maintain its longevity and appearance.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to put on your jewellery after applying perfume to avoid exposing it to chemicals. However, if you are unable to remove your jewellery, you can apply perfume, then put your jewellery back on.
Pearls are the most vulnerable to damage from perfumes and hairsprays when compared to gold, silver, and diamonds. Sterling silver jewellery may also get a greenish hue if exposed to perfumes due to its copper content. Diamonds and other natural gemstones are also prone to damage from the essential oils in perfumes, which may result in a pale yellow hue.
To prevent damage, avoid spraying perfume directly onto your jewellery. You can also wipe your jewellery gently with a soft cloth if it comes into contact with perfume to minimise the impact. Additionally, store your jewellery in a dry place, such as a jewellery box or pouch, to protect it from humidity and other environmental factors.
