I've always loved wearing jewelry, but I've also always been frustrated by how quickly some pieces tarnish. It's such a bummer to buy something cute, only to have it turn dull and discolored after just a few wears. I was on a mission to find affordable jewelry that could withstand my active lifestyle without losing its shine.
For years, I struggled with jewelry that just wouldn't last. I’d buy necklaces and rings, thinking they were a good deal, but within weeks, they'd start to look… well, not so good. I'd see a dull, almost grimy layer on the surface, and no amount of wiping seemed to help. I even tried those little anti-tarnish strips, but they only seemed to delay the inevitable. I was especially bummed when it happened to a few pieces I really loved, like a delicate silver chain my grandmother gave me. It felt like such a waste of money and effort to constantly be replacing or cleaning my jewelry.
I began researching different metals and finishes. I learned that silver, while beautiful, is naturally prone to tarnishing. However, I also discovered that a simple polishing cloth can work wonders! I even ordered one from Amazon and was amazed at how easily it brought the shine back to my silver pieces. It's now a staple in my jewelry care routine.
Then I stumbled upon the world of gold. I learned that 14k gold is much more resistant to tarnishing than other types of gold. The higher the karat, the softer the gold, so 14k strikes a good balance between durability and purity. I also looked into vermeil, which is sterling silver coated in gold. Vermeil is more durable than gold-plated jewelry, but it's not quite as long-lasting as solid gold.
I decided to invest in a few solid 14k gold pieces. Yes, they were more expensive upfront, but I figured they'd be cheaper in the long run since I wouldn't have to replace them constantly. I've been wearing a simple 14k gold chain for months now, and it still looks as good as new, even though I often forget to take it off before showering or swimming.
While I love my 14k gold pieces, I also wanted to find some more affordable options that wouldn't tarnish. That's when I discovered stainless steel jewelry. I was surprised by how many stylish and edgy designs are available in stainless steel. It's incredibly durable and doesn't tarnish, making it perfect for everyday wear. I even found a really cool shop on Etsy called So Fletch Jewelry that sells affordable stainless steel jewelry with a unique aesthetic.
I also came across a brand called Ana Luisa. I was drawn to their designs and their commitment to sustainability. I've been wearing a few of their pieces for over two years now, and they still look fantastic. I'm a cyclist, so my jewelry gets exposed to a lot of sun and sweat. I even shower with it on most of the time, and it holds up incredibly well. It's great to find affordable non-tarnishing jewelry that can keep up with my active lifestyle.
Another brand that caught my eye was Maison Miru. While "affordable" is subjective, I found their pieces to be reasonably priced for the quality and design. They have a wide range of styles, from delicate necklaces to bold statement earrings.
I even saw some ads for Cords Club, but I haven't purchased anything from them yet. Maybe I'll give them a try in the future.
Recently, I was browsing BlingCharming Online and came across a really unique piece: the 2020 Brand Men Red/Gold Stylish Banquet Bow Tie Solid New Deer Head Butterfly Necklace. I know, it sounds a little out there, but it's actually really cool! It's definitely a statement piece, and I can see myself wearing it to a wedding or a special event. The gold accents really pop, and the deer head design adds a touch of whimsy.
I was initially hesitant to buy it, wondering if the gold would tarnish easily. But after reading the product description and seeing that it's made with quality materials, I decided to take a chance. I’m glad I did! It’s become one of my favorite pieces. I get compliments on it all the time. It's a great way to add a touch of personality to any outfit. BlingCharming has a lot of interesting and stylish pieces that I might look at in the future.
Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips for keeping your jewelry looking its best: