You may think that faulty manufacturing or under-karating might be the problem when a ring turns, blackening or discolouring either the skin, clothing, or the jewellery itself. However, that is not the case.

The most common reason for jewellery turning is metallic abrasion, caused by make-up on skin or clothing. Cosmetics often contain compounds harder than the jewellery itself, which wear or rub off very tiny particles of the precious metals. Very finely divided metal always appears black, rather than metallic, so it looks like a jet-black dust. When this dust comes in contact with absorbant surfaces such as skin or clothing, it sticks, forming a black smudge.

To prevent gold from discolouring, try switching cosmetics. If this is not possible, remove rings and other jewellery while applying make-up, then clean the areas of skin in contact with the jewellery with soap and water.

Another cause of discolouration is the actual corrosion of the metals. Gold itself does not corrode, or oxidize, but its primary alloy materials of copper and silver will do so by forming very dark chemical compounds under moist or wet conditions.

When you perspire, fats and fatty acids released in perspiration can cause corrosion of 14K gold, especially when exposed to warmth and air.  This problem can be worse in seacoastal or semitropical areas, where chlorides combine with the perspiration to form a corrosive element that discolours the skin. Even smog fumes will gradually attack jewellery, and are evident as a tarnish that rubs off the skin.

Under these conditions, remove your jewllery often, and use an absorbent powder, free of abrasive compounds, on skin that comes into contact with the jewellery.

Sometimes, medications can play a role in turning your skin black.  One solution could be to Rhodium plate the inside of your rings. Rhodium is a member of the Platinum family, an inert metal.

The actual design of your jewellery can be a contributing factor. Wide shanks have more surface area to contact abrasives or corrosives. Concave surfaces inside a shank form natural collection points that trap moisture and contaminants, also causing a type of dermititis. Leaving your rings off overnight will help - promoting air circulation on your skin.

Remove all rings before using soaps, anti-bacterial soaps, cleaning compounds, or detergents, and clean your rings frequently. Gemport provides free ring cleaning and claw checks. As well as solving the problem, you will be amazed at how much better and sparkly your rings will look!