If you’ve ever noticed a green mark on your skin after wearing jewellery, you’re not alone. Many people wonder, what jewellery goes green and why does it happen? At Bespoke Jewellery & Watch Repairs, we believe that knowing your materials is key to loving your jewellery for a lifetime.
Why Does Jewellery Turn Skin Green?
When certain metals come into contact with moisture and skin, a chemical reaction can occur. This is often due to copper oxidation — a harmless reaction where the copper in the alloy reacts with sweat, water, or even skincare products, leaving behind a green residue.
Common Types of Jewellery That Go Green
1. Copper-Based Jewellery
Copper is the most common culprit. Though beautiful and warm in colour, it oxidises easily and can leave green marks.
2. Brass Jewellery
Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, behaves in much the same way as pure copper. It is often used in costume jewellery and vintage pieces.
3. Low-Quality Gold-Plated Items
Gold-plated jewellery can sometimes contain a copper base. Once the thin layer of gold wears away, the underlying metal may react with your skin.
4. Nickel Alloys
Nickel is another reactive metal used in some inexpensive or costume jewellery. It doesn’t always turn skin green, but it can cause irritation or discolouration in some wearers.
How to Prevent Your Jewellery from Going Green
At Bespoke Jewellery & Watch Repairs, we recommend the following simple steps to keep your skin mark-free:
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Keep jewellery dry – Remove it before swimming, showering or exercising.
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Avoid lotions and sprays – Let perfumes or moisturisers absorb fully before putting on jewellery.
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Clean regularly – Gently cleaning your pieces can help remove buildup and reduce oxidation.
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Consider a clear barrier – A thin coat of clear nail polish inside the ring or on the back of earrings can offer temporary protection.
Choose High-Quality, Personal Pieces
We understand that jewellery isn’t just about sparkle — it’s sentimental, symbolic, and often tells your story. That’s why we create and repair pieces using high-quality materials designed to last, without unwanted reactions. Whether it’s remodelling your grandmother’s ring or designing something truly bespoke, we’re here to make sure your jewellery is as kind to your skin as it is special to your heart.
Thinking About a Custom Piece?
If you’ve been let down by mass-produced jewellery, let’s change that. With over 30 years of hands-on experience and a family heritage in the jewellery trade, we’re proud to offer one-on-one consultations from our home-based workshop. Whether it’s gold, platinum, or a sentimental heirloom, we’ll guide you to a perfect piece that won’t leave a green trace.
Get in Touch
Have questions about jewellery materials or looking to design something truly personal? Reach out today. At Bespoke Jewellery & Watch Repairs, you’re not just a customer — you’re part of our story.
Visit our website to learn more or book your consultation.
