Hermes is a luxury fashion brand that has been around for over 180 years. Known for its iconic silk scarves, leather goods, and jewelry, Hermes has become synonymous with elegance and sophistication.
But when it comes to Hermes jewelry, many people wonder if it tarnishes over time. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some tips on how to keep your Hermes jewelry looking its best.
What Causes Tarnishing?
Before we dive into whether or not Hermes jewelry tarnishes, let’s first understand what causes tarnishing in the first place. Tarnishing is a natural process that occurs when certain metals come into contact with air, moisture, or other chemicals. This reaction can cause a layer of discoloration to form on the surface of the metal.
The most common metals that tarnish are copper, silver, and gold. However, even precious metals like platinum and palladium can tarnish under certain conditions.
Does Hermes Jewelry Tarnish?
When it comes to Hermes jewelry, the answer is both yes and no. It depends on the type of metal used in the piece.
Hermes uses a variety of metals in their jewelry designs including gold-plated brass, silver-plated brass, enamel-coated brass, and precious metals like 18k gold and 925 sterling silver.
Gold-plated and silver-plated brass pieces are more prone to tarnishing than enamel-coated or precious metal pieces. This is because the plating can wear off over time exposing the base metal underneath which can then react with air or moisture causing discoloration.
However, even enamel-coated or precious metal pieces can still tarnish if they come into contact with certain chemicals such as perfumes or lotions.
How to Prevent Tarnishing
The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent tarnishing in your Hermes jewelry.
- Avoid wearing your jewelry in the shower or while swimming.
- Apply perfumes, lotions, and other beauty products before putting on your jewelry.
- Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and humidity.
- Clean your jewelry regularly using a soft cloth and mild soap or jewelry cleaner specifically designed for the type of metal used in the piece.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes jewelry can tarnish over time depending on the type of metal used in the piece and how it’s cared for. By following some simple steps to prevent tarnishing and properly maintaining your Hermes jewelry, you can ensure that it stays looking beautiful for years to come.