Why Has My Jewellery Turned My Skin Green?

One of the questions we hear time and time again across our Gold Reserves shops in Swansea, Llanelli and Cardiff is, "Why has my jewellery turned my skin green?"

If this has happened to you, don't panic. It doesn't necessarily mean your jewellery is fake or poor quality. In fact, there are several reasons why it can happen, and most of them are completely normal.

Why Does Jewellery Turn Your Skin Green?

The green colour is usually caused by a reaction between the metals in your jewellery and your skin.

Many types of jewellery contain copper as part of their alloy. When copper comes into contact with moisture, sweat, lotions or certain chemicals, it can react and leave a harmless green mark on your skin.

The important thing to remember is that this doesn't always mean there's anything wrong with your jewellery.

Does It Mean My Jewellery Isn't Real Silver?

Not necessarily.

We often meet customers who think their sterling silver jewellery must be fake because it's left a mark on their skin.

Genuine 925 sterling silver is made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, with copper being the most commonly used. This means that even genuine sterling silver can occasionally cause skin discolouration under the right conditions.

Jewellery that is only silver plated can be more likely to cause this problem over time. As the thin layer of silver wears away, the base metal underneath becomes exposed, and this may react more readily with your skin.

At Gold Reserves, we don't sell silver-plated jewellery. Our silver jewellery is genuine 925 sterling silver, and we stock a wide range of rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and pendants in a variety of styles. While sterling silver can occasionally leave a harmless mark on some people depending on skin chemistry and how the jewellery is worn, it's a precious metal designed to last with the right care.

Why Does It Only Happen Sometimes?

You may find that the same ring or necklace causes no problems one week but leaves a green mark the next.

That's because your skin chemistry changes all the time.

Things that can make a difference include:

• Hot weather.

• Sweating during exercise.

• Wearing perfume or body sprays.

• Moisturiser or hand cream.

• Sunscreen.

• Household cleaning products.

• Swimming pools and chlorine.

• Salt water.

• Humidity.

All of these can affect how your jewellery reacts with your skin.

How Can I Stop It Happening?

While it isn't always possible to prevent completely, there are several simple ways to reduce the chances.

Let Lotions and Perfumes Dry First

One of the easiest things you can do is apply moisturiser, perfume, sunscreen or hand cream before putting your jewellery on.

Allow them to fully absorb into your skin before wearing your rings, bracelets or necklaces.

Remove Jewellery Before Swimming

Swimming pools contain chlorine, which can affect many precious metals and may increase the chance of skin reactions.

Sea water can also speed up tarnishing, especially on sterling silver.

Take Jewellery Off Before Showering

Soap, shampoo and body wash can build up on your jewellery over time, making it look dull while also encouraging tarnish.

Removing your jewellery before showering helps keep it looking its best.

Avoid Wearing Jewellery During Exercise

Sweat is one of the biggest contributors to skin discolouration.

If you're going to the gym, running or playing sport, it's usually best to remove your jewellery first.

Clean Your Jewellery Regularly

Keeping your jewellery clean helps remove oils, dirt and product build-up that can contribute to tarnishing.

Sterling silver, in particular, benefits from regular cleaning to keep it looking bright.

At Gold Reserves, we also stock Town Talk jewellery care products, including cleaning dips, polishing cloths and care wallets, to help keep your jewellery looking its best between professional cleans.

Is Green Skin Harmful?

In almost every case, no.

The green mark is simply a surface reaction between your skin and the metal. It isn't dangerous and will usually wash off with soap and water.

If you experience irritation, itching or a rash rather than just a green mark, you may have a sensitivity to one of the metals in the alloy. If this happens, it's worth speaking to a jeweller about alternative metal options that may suit you better.

The Bottom Line

Seeing a green mark on your skin doesn't automatically mean your jewellery is fake.

It's something we regularly explain to customers visiting our shops, and in many cases it's simply the result of everyday wear, moisture and the natural metals used to make jewellery stronger and more durable.

By taking your jewellery off before swimming, showering and exercising, allowing lotions and perfumes to dry before wearing it, and cleaning it regularly, you can help reduce the chances of it happening and keep your jewellery looking beautiful for years to come.

If you'd like advice on caring for your jewellery or choosing the right cleaning products, visit Gold Reserves in Swansea, Llanelli or Cardiff. Whether you're looking for genuine 925 sterling silver jewellery or need help caring for a favourite piece, our experienced team is always happy to help.