Gold is a yellow, heavy metal with high density and softness. Pure gold does not interact with alkalies and acids and is not affected by oxygen. These properties have earned it the title of noble metal.
However, in certain laboratory conditions, even this metal can be not only damaged but also dissolved. Acids – hydrochloric and concentrated nitric acids, potassium and iodine, liquid bromine, mercury, and aqueous cyanide solution can all affect it. The good news is that in everyday life, it is difficult to encounter these substances in quantities that are harmful to the metal.
Thanks to its plasticity and softness, gold has been used by jewelers since time immemorial. However, because of these properties, it is not used in its pure form, as such items would not be resistant to scratches and would be fragile and prone to deformation. Therefore, to create jewelry, this metal is alloyed with others such as copper, nickel, platinum, palladium, zinc, cadmium, and silver.
All of these metals listed above are also susceptible to negative environmental influences, but when alloyed with gold they make it stronger. The hallmark on jewelry indicates the percentage ratio of the alloy. The higher the hallmark, the more gold is present in the item. For example, if the hallmark is 750, this indicates a 75% gold content. The lower the hallmark, the more care the jewelry needs to maintain its original appearance. To achieve this, it is important to follow certain recommendations.
Take off your gold jewelry when:
– using aggressive cleaning agents during household chores;
– applying creams, ointments, and cosmetics, as well as taking medication;
– engaging in sports activities;
– swimming in the sea or a pool;
– visiting a sauna or taking a shower;
– tanning in a solarium or under the sun.
UV rays, high temperatures, cleaning agents, medication, cosmetics, moisture, and sweat can have a negative impact on the metals that make up an alloy. The result may be discoloration of the item.
Also, don’t forget to take care of your gold jewelry to keep it shiny and maintain its color:
– take off the jewelry when you get home, or at least when you go to bed;
wipe it with a suede, flannel cloth, or microfiber cloth;
– the best place to store it is in a case with a velvet lining. Never use cardboard! Some types of cardboard contain sulfur, which can cause the item to darken or develop stains;
– store your “treasures” separately from each other to avoid scratches and other mechanical damage upon contact;
– store your jewelry in a cool, dark, and dry place.
However, even with cautious storage, an item over time will accumulate dust. And if you wear it often, a layer of sweat from your skin will remain on it. Dirt and dust particles stick to it and settle in the smallest openings, clogging them. Therefore, jewelry requires periodic cleaning.
For this purpose, jewelry cosmetics sold in specialized stores are suitable. Jewelry workshops also polish and professionally clean items. It is better to entrust them with the cleaning and polishing of the most valuable items in an ultrasonic bath.
If the appearance of your jewelry is far from ideal or you are tired of it, you can exchange it for new jewelry at our store. We accept gold items in any condition and are ready to exchange old jewelry for new ones immediately. More precise information will be provided to you at our salons.
Jewelry not only completes your look but also preserves pleasant emotions and cherished memories. And thanks to proper care, they will delight you for many years.
