Will 916 Gold Tarnish?

Gold is renowned for its durability and luster, but not all gold is created equal. When we talk about gold purity, we often hear about 24k, 18k, and 14k gold, among others. But what exactly is 916 gold, and does it tarnish? Let's dive into this topic and uncover the truth about 916 gold, its properties, and whether or not it tarnishes.

Understanding 916 Gold

916 gold is a term used to describe gold with a purity level of 91.6%. This purity level is often referred to as 22k gold in many regions. The number "916" comes from the fact that 916 parts per 1,000 are pure gold, and the remaining 84 parts are made up of other metals, usually copper or silver. This specific composition gives 916 gold its unique balance of purity and durability.

Composition and Properties

To understand whether 916 gold tarnishes, we first need to explore its composition and properties:

• Gold Content: With 91.6% gold content, 916 gold is quite pure, though not as pure as 24k gold, which is 99.9% pure.
• Alloy Metals: The remaining 8.4% of the alloy typically includes copper or silver. These metals are added to increase the strength and hardness of the gold, making it more suitable for everyday wear.
• Color and Luster: The high gold content gives 916 gold a rich, yellow hue and a significant amount of luster. This makes it a popular choice for jewelry.

Does 916 Gold Tarnish?

Tarnishing occurs when metals react with sulfur or other substances in the environment, leading to discoloration or a dull appearance. Pure gold, like 24k gold, does not tarnish because it is chemically inert. However, because 916 gold is an alloy, it contains other metals that can potentially tarnish. Here’s what you need to know:

• Copper and Silver: The metals mixed with gold in 916 gold, such as copper and silver, can tarnish over time. Copper, in particular, is known for its tendency to oxidize and develop a patina, which can cause discoloration. Silver can also tarnish, but to a lesser extent.
• Protective Coatings: Many high-quality pieces of 916 gold jewelry are coated with a thin layer of protective material to help prevent tarnishing. This coating can help maintain the jewelry’s appearance over time.

Maintenance Tips for 916 Gold

To keep your 916 gold jewelry looking its best, follow these maintenance tips:

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your jewelry regularly with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or oils that might cause tarnishing. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
2. Proper Storage: Store your gold jewelry in a dry, cool place. Use anti-tarnish pouches or cloths to help prevent tarnish from forming.
3. Avoid Exposure: Minimize exposure to chemicals, such as perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products, which can react with the metals in your jewelry.
4. Professional Cleaning: Periodically, have your jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected to ensure it remains in good condition.

Comparing 916 Gold to Other Purities

Let’s compare 916 gold to other common types of gold to see how tarnishing might differ:

As shown in the table, the higher the gold content, the lower the tarnish potential. 916 gold, with its 91.6% purity, falls between pure gold and lower karat golds in terms of tarnishing.

Conclusion

In summary, while 916 gold is less likely to tarnish compared to lower karat golds, it is not completely immune to tarnishing. The presence of alloy metals like copper and silver means that 916 gold can tarnish over time, but proper care and maintenance can significantly reduce this risk. By following the recommended maintenance tips, you can keep your 916 gold jewelry looking beautiful for years to come.