Does Zinc Alloy Tarnish?

Zinc alloy is a combination where they mix zinc with other materials like magnesium, copper, or aluminium, mostly to boost the durability, especially in terms of jewelry. 

Zinc alloy is a popular material used in several types of jewelry pieces, but, since the majority of the materials are prone to tarnishing, people are wondering if it’s the same case with zinc alloy. 

So, does zinc alloy tarnish? What causes tarnishing? How can you save it? To know the answer to all these questions – simply continue reading.

Does Zinc Alloy Tarnish?

Yes, unfortunately, zinc alloy can tarnish over time, but compared to other metals like copper and silver, it tarnishes slowly, but surely. 

When your jewelry piece is tarnished, you will see the appearance of white spots or it turning into a grey shade, and if it is kept in high humidity areas, then you can also see powdery white corrosion on the surface. 

Why Does It Tarnish?

The main reason why zinc alloy tarnishes is because it is reactive to moisture and oxygen, and although it will take its time – it will form a dull oxide layer or a white powdery corrosion, also called white rust, on the surface. 

Additionally, since it is mixed with other metals in the alloy – those other materials can also affect how quickly or slowly the jewelry can tarnish. 

Factors Accelerating Tarnishing 

• Exposure to saltwater, sweat, or acids can speed up tarnishing.
• If kept in high-humidity areas, the humidity can cause chemical reactions with zinc and other materials in the alloy.
• If the jewelry piece is poorly plated or does not have a protective coating, then the tarnishing can accelerate severely. 

Preventive Measures

Storage

You need to use airtight bags or containers to store the jewelry, make sure it is kept in a dry place, and if possible, rest it separately from other metal jewelry.

Usage

You must make sure to avoid contact with water while swimming or showering, do not apply perfumes and lotion directly on the skin or wear it after you apply those, and remove it before you go out to the gym or play. 

Cleaning Process

Here 3 cleaning methods to help you clean your tarnished zinc alloy jewelry:

• Use a mild soap and warm water to clean it thoroughly, and make sure to dry it immediately with a soft towel.
• You can add baking soda to water and make a paste to gently clean the jewelry, before washing it and drying immediately. 
• You could buy polishing clothes that are specifically invented for soft metals and costume jewelry. 

Final Words 

In the end, your zinc alloy jewelry will indeed tarnish, but you can slow down the process by following the preventive measures and cleaning guides mentioned in this article. 

With that, we have reached the end of this article, and we hope you now have the detailed answer to the question – Does zinc alloy tarnish? 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you wear zinc alloy in the shower?

• Yes, you are allowed to wear zinc alloy in the shower, although we don’t recommend it because exposure to water can lead to tarnishing faster. 

2. Will zinc alloy tarnish?

• Yes, zinc alloy will tarnish, and although it will not tarnish as fast as other metals like silver, exposure to water, air, etc can still accelerate its tarnishing process. 

3. Is zinc alloy jewelry waterproof?

• No, zinc alloy jewelry is not waterproof and even scratch-resistant, which means it can start tarnishing when exposed to water.