It’s important to understand that all metals, including gold, are subject to tarnish once exposed to oxygen. Environmental or humidity levels also play a major role. For example, very humid climates cause metals to tarnish more quickly. Both silver and brass contain copper, which is a metal that tarnishes easily. In the case of 925 silver, the amount of copper is 7.5 percent, while brass generally contains around 77 percent copper, which is about 10 times the amount in silver, and thus tarnishes faster.
Brass is commonly used as a base material for fashion jewelry due to its cost-effectiveness, as it is much more affordable than sterling silver. However, the actual process of creating a plate in brass, silver, or gold is essentially identical.
Fashion jewelry made with brass often uses a nickel plating layer to protect the gold plating from migration or pooling due to the copper component. However, as a jewelry manufacturer, we do not use nickel.
Instead, we use palladium as a base metal, which creates a strong barrier between the base alloy and the gold plating. This helps improve the quality of the final plating and its resistance to copper migration and discoloration.
Flow uses Italian alloys in its silver that are not just pure copper but contain varied recipes designed to address issues like strength and anti-tarnish. This is more advanced and effective than the traditional use of pure copper in jewelry making.
How you care for your plated jewelry will always be the main factor in its longevity. Avoiding dishwashing, showering, or swimming, and lightly cleaning your plated jewelry with proper storage, are crucial to maintaining its appearance.
It should also be noted that some body types and compositions are more prone to acidic sweat and corrosion when it comes to metal contacting the skin. Therefore, care and light cleaning are especially important for maintaining plated jewelry.
We do not, nor will we, make any claims regarding the water resistance of gold plating. As mentioned above, we suggest avoiding activities such as dishwashing, showering, or swimming while wearing plated jewelry. Proper care, cleaning, and storage are always recommended.