Does Gold Degrade Over Time?

Gold has enthralled collectors for centuries because of its brilliance, exquisite colour, and scarcity. However, one issue has long perplexed gold dealers and jewellery enthusiasts: Does gold fade or tarnish with time? Investors, collectors, and jewellery enthusiasts are particularly interested in how gold holds up and behaves over time. This blog post will examine whether gold tarnishes with time and what type of maintenance it needs to remain bright. 

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Considering Gold's Natural Properties

First, we need to understand gold's innate properties to shorten the expression fully: ‘Is gold a stable metal?’

1. Gold’s Atomic Structure and Stability

Also known as noble metal, gold’s atomic number is 79, distinguished by its high resistance to chemical reactions. Because of this property, gold has one of the most dense and stable structures among metals on Earth.

2. Pure Gold's Inertness 

Pure gold doesn’t react or combine with oxygen, moisture, or most environmental elements, making it more corrosion and degradation-resistant.

3. Why is Gold a Noble Metal?

Gold, silver and platinum are noble metals because of their oxidation and corrosion resistance. That’s why gold is more durable than many other metals and is loved by people worldwide.

Gold's Interaction With Time And Its Environment

While gold is stable and does not undergo many changes, external factors can influence its condition over an extended period.

1. Moisture and Humidity

While gold doesn’t corrode or rust over time, moisture in the air can affect the appearance of alloyed metals like copper or nickel mixed with gold.

2. Airborne Pollutants as Chemicals

While sulphur and chlorine may not affect pure gold, they affect the alloyed components, which may tarnish or dull.

3. Gold's Sensitivity To Temperature

Gold’s melting point (about 1064°C) is lower than that of other metals, but fluctuations in temperature do not compromise its quality. However, if gold is subjected to extreme temperatures, it can weaken the metal, bending and softening it when mishandled.

4. Durability Differences Between Alloyed and Pure Gold 

Differences in durability between pure gold and alloyed gold are apparent. Pure gold is more stable; alloyed gold (18k or 14k) is usually more substantial, durable, and mechanically solid. However, it is also more reactive due to the extra metals added.

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Factors That Affect Gold's Look Over Time 

Numerous factors can affect the appearance of gold, even though it may not degrade traditionally.

1. Contact with Skin Oils and Sweat

Gold is likely to accumulate film due to body oils, sweat, and lotions, which dulls its lustre over time if worn consistently.

2. Abrasion from Daily Use

Gold coins were easily scratched and dented, and because they were made of soft metal and worn daily, this trend can significantly affect their polish and finish.

3. Exposure to Harsh Chemicals

Bleach, chlorine, and even industrial cleaning agents, especially when added to other metals, can damage the surface of gold jewellery.

4. Storage Conditions and Handling

Storing gold pieces in a stack can be considered improper storage. This can result in gold pieces rubbing against one another, leading to the wearing of the surface.

Does Gold Tarnish or Corrode Like Other Metals?

Gold exhibits different behaviour because of its noble demeanour, unlike other metals that rust or tarnish.

1. Comparison with Silver and Copper

Armour gold's corrosion makes it superior to silver or copper because, under normal conditions, it does not oxidize or form sulphides on its surface.

2. Explained Resistance of Gold Oxidation

It is well-known that gold does not oxidise when exposed to air or moisture, which accounts for its longevity over the years. 

3. Identify Signs of Corrosion in Low-Karat Gold. 

Karats lower than 18 (10k, 14k) may exhibit a tarnish or onset of gold discolouration due to the reactive metals in alloys.

4. Resistance to the Environment of High-Purity Gold

Over time, high-purity gold is one of the most reliable and durable metals, offering extreme resistance to environmental changes. 

Expert Care Tips To Ensure Greater Brilliance of Your Gold

Regular care and maintenance enhance the enduring durability of gold jewellery surfaces when cleaned professionally. 

1. Polishing for Long-lasting Brilliance

Polishing gold effectively means using warm water and a soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface. You want to preserve that shine for as long as possible.

2. Best Daily Wear Practices

Regarding daily wear best practices, the best advice is to take off your gold jewellery before you get too active. Avoid lotions, perfumes, and other chemicals that can come into contact with your gold. That's the best way to minimise damage.

3. How to Enhance the Gold Jewelry

To make your gold jewelry stand the test of time for decades, you must polish and maintain it well. Store your gold safely when not used, and have it professionally polished.

Read: What is gold filled vs gold plated

Final thoughts

Does gold decrease in value over time? The answer is no because gold does not corrode like other metals. Gold can withstand the test of time due to its incredible lifespan, corrosion-resistant characteristics, and resistance to natural abrasion.