Why does jewellery polish fades over time?

Ever pulled out your favorite ring or necklace only to find it’s lost that shiny, brand-new glow? You’re not alone—it happens to all of us. One day your jewellery is sparkling like it belongs in a showroom, and the next, it’s looking a bit…meh. So what’s going on here?

Let’s break it down in simple, everyday language.

✨ First Things First: What Is “Polish”?
Jewellery polish is basically a super-fine finish applied to give your pieces that glossy, eye-catching shine. Whether it’s gold, silver, or even imitation jewellery, that sparkle comes from a thin outer layer—sometimes it’s real gold plating, sometimes it’s a chemical polish used on non-precious metals.

It looks beautiful, but it doesn’t last forever.

🕒 Why It Fades Over Time
1. Daily Wear and Tear
Think about how often you touch your jewellery—washing hands, applying lotion, cooking, even just brushing up against clothes. All of this creates friction, and that slowly rubs off the polish.

2. Sweat and Skin Oils
Our skin naturally produces oils, and when mixed with sweat (especially in the Indian climate!), it can cause the polish to break down faster—especially on imitation or gold-plated pieces.

3. Chemicals in Products
Soap, perfume, sunscreen, sanitizer—these might be great for us, but not so great for our jewellery. They react with the metal and polish, causing it to dull or even change color.

4. Air and Moisture
Even if you’re not wearing it daily, just being exposed to air can cause oxidation, especially for silver. That’s why sometimes jewellery kept in open trays starts looking tarnished even without use.

💡 Can You Make It Last Longer?
Absolutely! Here are some simple tricks:

Store it right: Keep pieces in ziplock bags or a dry box, away from sunlight and moisture.

Keep them dry: Always remove jewellery before swimming, bathing, or working out.

Last on, first off: Put on your jewellery after applying makeup, perfume, or lotion.

Use a soft cloth: Gently wipe your pieces after wearing them to remove sweat or residue.

🔧 Is Re-Polishing an Option?
Yes! Many jewellers offer re-polishing or re-plating services—especially for gold-plated or silver jewellery. It’s a cost-effective way to bring back the shine without buying something new. It won’t make your jewellery “brand new,” but it can definitely give it a fresh look.

💬 A Real Talk Moment
If you’re someone who loves changing styles and doesn’t wear the same piece every day, fading polish might not be a huge deal. But if you’ve got a favorite pair of earrings or a family heirloom necklace, it’s worth putting in a little care to make it last.

Jewellery, like everything else we love, needs a bit of TLC. So the next time your ring looks a little less radiant, don’t panic—it just needs a little help to shine again.