One thing we love about a good piece of jewelry is the shine. However, unlike fine jewelry, fashion jewelry is affordable and made with materials like plated metals, semi-precious stones, glass and beads. Because they are not made from costly materials like gold, platinum and diamonds fashion jewelry likely won’t last forever. We love it because we can create amazing looks, similar to those of fine jewelry, without the hefty price tag. There are, however, a number of things that you can do to minimize the signs of wear and extend the life of your fashion pieces. The first thing is choosing well-crafted jewelry. And the next thing is learning how to properly care for your jewelry. 

Why does fashion jewelry tarnish?

The fact of the matter is that all fashion jewelry, like earrings, necklaces or bracelets are prone to tarnishing. The reason being the consistent contact your jewelry can have with moisture, acids, oils and the air. These elements react with the metal in the jewelry and eventually causes them to wear down and become tarnished. 

How quickly your fashion jewelry tarnishes depends on a number of factors. One of the main factors being how you care for them. Another factor is your personal skin composition. The environments in which you wear and store your fashion jewelry is another factor of their longevity. The materials that are used to make the jewelry are also a major factor on how well they stand up to your wear. 

How quickly jewelry tarnishes depends on a number of factors - the way you care for them, your skin composition, the air around you and the processes and materials used to make them. We have a few tips on how to keep jewelry from tarnishing that we'll get to! 

Why does some jewelry turn green?

Factors related to your skin cause the metals to oxidize. Jewelry made from copper more frequently turns green more easily. While the green color can be alarming to look at it is not harmful to you and is not unsafe. 

How to keep your fashion jewelry from tarnishing?

While certain factors that affect your jewelry may be out of your control, like your skin composition and your environment, you can control the care of your pieces. Here are some ways to keep costume jewelry lasting and looking fresh.

1. KEEP IT DRY

Tarnishing can happen much more quickly when your jewelry is exposed to moisture and liquids. This includes body care products like lotion and perfume, water while washing your hands, as well as sweat. Oils that your skin naturally produces can also wear down your jewelry over time. If you happen to get your jewelry we the best thing to do is to wipe them dry right away.

2. STORE IT PROPERLY

Storing your jewelry properly is a big care tip that can make all the difference. All of the jewelry that you receive from Bella Simone comes with a  velvet bag. This bag is perfect for keeping your jewelry protected from the sun and safe from scratches and chips.

If you really want to be careful you can store your jewels in a Ziploc bag. Be sure to make sure you get rid of as much air as possible before sealing it. Removing the air will help the metal to not oxidize from the air.

The best results can come from using 3M anti-tarnish strips. These strips protect your pieces from anything in the air that will cause your jewelry to tarnish over time. You use these by sticking one in your jewelry drawer, jewelry box or jewelry case.

3. TRY A JEWELRY PROTECTANT SPRAY

Protectant sprays can not only protect your jewelry from tarnishing but can also protect from  allergies, irritation, rashes and hives that people with sensitive skin types can experience. We recommend Tarnish Me Not to keep your jewelry looking newer longer and to shield against irritation. This spray is also 100% hypoallergenic and cruelty-free.

4. GIVE IT A BREAK

The better you treat your jewelry, the better your jewelry will look and the longer it will last. If there is a piece that you are particularly fond of, be gentle with it. Wearing it every day may not be the way to go.  Fashion jewelry is prone to tarnish but choosing the right pieces will help ensure that you have the best experience possible. Selecting pieces plated with karat gold, rhodium, vermeil, gold-filled and higher end fashion jewelry will extend the life of your pieces.