Are there metals that won't tarnish? Actually, yes. Medical-grade titanium or recycled stainless steel don't have the same oxidation problem as other tarnishable metals so nothing happens to their surfaces when exposed to air and water.
Stainless Steel Jewelry
This alloy is usually composed of a combination of iron, carbon, and chromium. It's resistant to corrosion and rust, so it can be worn in the shower without any fear of tarnishing or reacting.
“It happens when your jewelry is exposed to water, sweat, chemicals like hairspray or perfume, and air,” she explains, “but not all metals react to these chemicals.” Tarnish-proof jewelry pieces are made from metals like solid gold, titanium and stainless steel, which as Okubo explains, “keep their natural state, even ...
Copper, Brass, and Bronze are another metal you may want to be cautious about showering in. Depending on the acidity and mineral content of your water, you could end up with discolored, stinky, and even pitted jewelry. It's best to suck it up, and take these off before playing in the rain.
It's ultimately best to keep all of your jewelry dry if possible. However, if necessary, solid gold is the best type for wearing in the shower or bath. This is because it is the only type that doesn't have an outer layer that is made from a different metal to its base.
Typically, solid gold, gold-filled, platinum, or sterling silver jewelry can handle a bit more water. Be careful with plated jewelry, as plating can wear off, and what's left underneath can tarnish over time. Brass jewelry is better to avoid mixing with water, though it can be cleaned.
1. Aluminum. Aluminum is one of the most commonly used metals on the planet, and it's arguably the most famous for not rusting. Aluminum doesn't rust, only iron's specific oxidation is called rust and there is no iron used when creating aluminum.
Platinum, gold & silver
Known as the precious metals, platinum, gold and silver are all pure metals, therefore they contain no iron and cannot rust. Platinum and gold are highly non-reactive, and although silver can tarnish, it is fairly corrosion-resistant and relatively affordable by comparison.
Always be aware of what materials are present in your rings, in order to avoid the Green Finger. Stainless steel, 925 sterling silver, platinum, rhodium-plated and gold-plated materials are all made from safe materials that are good for sensitive skin, and yet can still cause some staining.
When it comes to figuring out what kind of jewelry is sweat- and water-resistant (whether it's rings, necklaces, earrings, or even a medical bracelet), check that it's solid gold, gold filled, or sterling silver. These metals are also hypoallergenic, which means it won't make your skin break out, itch, or turn green.
Porous surfaces are also more prone to staining and attracting mold and mildew growth. Shower materials that are easier to clean are therefore those with smooth and nonporous surfaces such as glass, fiberglass, and acrylic.
The best material choices for shower heads are brass, stainless steel or ABS plastic. Stainless steel is more cost-efficient than brass and while metal is durable, it's hard to get a modern designed spray plate with metal alone.
It is chromium that makes stainless steel waterproof. So when you expose your stainless steel jewelry to water, chromium reacts with oxygen to form a hard, thin, and resistant oxide layer.
Copper, brass, and bronze, are all particularly vulnerable to tarnishing and will need maintenance to prevent its dulling effects over time. The presence of other metals, such as copper, zinc and nickel, make the silver alloy of sterling silver tarnish more easily.
Choose high-purity sterling silver that is marked "925" (the standard used to indicate the weight of pure silver in the alloy). While water won't ruin your sterling silver, it may speed up the tarnishing process, so it's best to take jewelry off before you shower, wash your hands, or do the dishes.
Get some 3M anti-tarnish strips. These super absorbent pieces of paper will basically suck all of the culprits in the surrounding air that will cause your jewelry to tarnish over time. Stick one in your jewelry drawer, jewelry box or storage pouch.
Three metals which do not corrode are: Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
Gold is considered a “safe haven asset” because when prices for other investments, like stocks or real estate, drop sharply, gold doesn't lose its value.
Only iron can rust. That means other metals that do not contain iron are not susceptible to rusting. This makes them ideal for outdoor placement, as they'll last much longer in natural conditions.
Grade 316 stainless is the one to use in harsh marine environments. Its nickname is “marine grade” for a reason. It contains 18% chromium but has more nickel than 304 and adds 2-3% molybdenum. This makes it more resistant to salt.
Can I shower With Stainless Steel Jewelry? Yes, you can. You can safely shower with your stainless steel jewelry and wash your hands with a stainless steel ring without the ornaments getting any major damage. While water might not cause any damage, harsh chemicals can.
Solid Gold (10k, 14k)
Solid gold is a great choice if you're looking for a lifetime piece you can wear everyday and everywhere - yes, even in the shower! Polish with a soft cloth.