07/30/2026
This is a question that I hear a lot, and the answer is something that I personally feel strongly about. I’m always 100% transparent with my clients about what they’re purchasing, so I like to be specific about how different metals and metal mixes react to their environment. Full disclosure- I never ever take off my jewelry. I sleep with it on, I shower with it, I do dishes, I go swimming, I work out.
So when you ask, whether something is waterproof, what you really want to know is will the color tarnish or change, and if so how long will it last?
I’m so very glad you asked!!
Here’s a quick breakdown with all these metal names you keep seeing and what they actually mean.
• Solid (14k) Yellow Gold: Very resistant to tarnish. May dull slightly after many years.
• Solid (14k) Rose Gold: Very resistant, may develop a slight patina or the Copper may darken subtly after many years.
• Sterling Silver (.925): Can begin to tarnish in 2 weeks to 12 months, depending on wear and environment.
• Gold-Plated: A fine layer of gold over a base metal (usually brass). The gold itself doesn’t tarnish, but the plating can wear away in 6 months–2 years with frequent wear. The exposed base metal may tarnish quickly.
• Gold Vermeil: Thick gold plating over sterling silver. Lasts longer than standard plating—typically 2–5 years before significant wear. The sterling silver underneath can tarnish if exposed.
• Stainless Steel: Rarely tarnishes. Typically stays bright for years or indefinitely.
• Brass: Typically darkens in days to months and may discolor skin.
• Copper: Often darkens within days to weeks and commonly turns skin green.
TDLR Durability ranking (best to worst):
1. Solid platinum
2. Titanium / Palladium
3. Solid 18k–14k gold
4. Gold-filled
5. Stainless steel
6. Argentium silver
7. Fine silver
8. Sterling silver
9. Gold vermeil
10. Rhodium-plated jewelry (until plating wears)
11. Gold-plated / Silver-plated
12. Brass / Bronze / Copper.
