Why White Gold Ring Turns Yellow
My customer from Chicago called today and said that her ring had turned yellow. She wasn’t sure why it changed color, especially since it was an anniversary gift purchased from a very reputable store that offered a lifetime service warranty.
The ring features three center stones symbolizing the Trinity Inside the band, the engraving reads “Past, Present, Future.” Along the edges, there are also three small stones set in a channel setting. The ring is crafted from 14-karat white gold.
A white gold ring turns yellow over time for a few reasons:
- Rhodium plating wears off.
– Most white gold jewelry is coated with a thin layer of rhodium to give it a bright, mirror-white shine.
– With daily wear, this layer gradually rubs away, revealing the metal’s natural warm tone underneath (white gold itself has a slightly yellowish hue). - Contact with chemicals.
– Lotions, perfumes, chlorine, or household cleaners can break down the rhodium layer faster. - Body chemistry.
– Skin pH levels, sweat, and natural oils can affect how quickly the rhodium coating fades. - Age and polishing.
– Over the years, cleaning and polishing also thin out the rhodium layer.
Because the ring has a lifetime warranty from the store it was purchased from, I have recommended to my customer to bring it to the store for inspection, ultrasound and steam cleaning, polishing and for rhodium re-plating (re-dipping). This quick process restores the bright white color and protective finish, usually lasting from 6 months to 2 years, depending on wear.
This particular case demonstrates that having a jewelry care plan is an excellent way to keep your pieces in perfect condition. However, it’s equally important not to forget about jewelry insurance — to protect your jewelry in case of loss, major damage, or theft.
To learn more about our jewelry repair and restoration services.