Ruby necklaces, known for their striking red hues and timeless elegance, can sometimes undergo unexpected color changes, including turning green. This phenomenon can be alarming and perplexing for those who cherish their ruby jewelry. Understanding why a ruby necklace might turn green involves exploring various factors such as the interaction between metals and gemstones, environmental conditions, and improper care. This comprehensive guide delves into these aspects to provide clarity on the issue and offer solutions to preserve the beauty of ruby jewelry.
Understanding Ruby and Its Composition
The Nature of Rubies
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, characterized by their brilliant red color. This red hue is primarily due to the presence of chromium within the corundum. Rubies are highly prized for their intense color and durability, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just below diamonds. They are often used in fine jewelry for their exceptional brilliance and resistance to scratching.
Types of Rubies
Natural Rubies: Formed in the Earth’s crust over millions of years, natural rubies are valued for their rarity and unique inclusions, which can give them a distinct character.
Synthetic Rubies: Created in laboratories, synthetic rubies have properties similar to natural rubies but may lack the natural inclusions and imperfections that characterize natural gemstones.
Treated Rubies: Many rubies undergo treatments to enhance their color or clarity. Common treatments include heat treatment to improve color and clarity and fracture filling to enhance transparency.
Why Would a Ruby Necklace Turn Green?
1. Metal Reactions and Alloy Tarnishing
Understanding Metal Tarnish
The most common reason for a ruby necklace turning green involves the metal used in the jewelry setting. Jewelry metals, particularly those that are not pure, can react with environmental factors and body chemistry, leading to tarnishing. This is often seen with base metals or lower-quality alloys, which can discolor over time.
Copper Alloy: Many jewelry pieces use copper alloys or contain copper to strengthen the metal. Copper reacts with moisture and acids, leading to tarnish. When this tarnish interacts with the acidic environment of the skin, it can leave a green residue.
Nickel: Nickel is commonly used in alloying metals for its strength and resistance to corrosion. However, it can react with sweat and body oils, leading to discoloration.
Preventive Measures
To prevent metal tarnishing:
Choose High-Quality Metals: Opt for jewelry made from high-quality metals such as 18k gold, platinum, or stainless steel, which are less prone to tarnishing.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your jewelry regularly with appropriate methods to remove tarnish and maintain its appearance.
Protective Coatings: Consider applying a protective coating to jewelry pieces to prevent tarnishing.
2. Chemical Reactions
Exposure to Chemicals
Rubies themselves are quite resilient and do not typically change color due to chemical exposure. However, the metals in the jewelry can react with chemicals in cleaning products, lotions, or perfumes. These reactions can lead to the greenish discoloration observed on the necklace.
Household Products: Cleaning agents, bleach, and other household chemicals can react with the metal, leading to tarnish and color changes.
Cosmetics and Lotions: Products containing acids or certain chemicals can react with the metal, causing a green residue.
Preventive Measures
To minimize chemical reactions:
Remove Jewelry Before Exposure: Take off your ruby necklace when using cleaning products, applying lotions, or swimming in chlorinated water.
Store Properly: Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place, preferably in anti-tarnish pouches or cloths.
3. Environmental Factors
Moisture and Humidity
Environmental factors such as moisture and humidity can contribute to the discoloration of metals in jewelry. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to corrosion and tarnish, which might appear as a greenish color.
Humidity: High humidity levels can accelerate the tarnishing process of metals, especially those containing copper or nickel.
Sweat: Sweat is acidic and can contribute to the tarnishing of metal, particularly in areas where the necklace frequently touches the skin.
See Also: What to Wear with a Ruby Necklace: What You Need to Know
Preventive Measures
To combat environmental factors:
Keep Jewelry Dry: Avoid wearing your ruby necklace during activities that expose it to moisture, such as swimming or exercising.
Use Desiccants: Store jewelry with silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
4. Inappropriate Jewelry Care
Improper Cleaning Methods
Improper cleaning methods can damage both the ruby and the metal setting. Using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials can lead to discoloration and damage.
Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using strong cleaning agents or abrasive materials that can harm the jewelry.
Incorrect Techniques: Cleaning methods that are too abrasive or improper can scratch the metal or affect the gemstone.
Preventive Measures
For proper care:
Use Mild Cleaners: Clean your ruby necklace with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth.
Professional Cleaning: Periodically have your jewelry professionally cleaned to maintain its appearance.
Assessing and Addressing the Issue
Evaluating the Source of Discoloration
To determine why your ruby necklace is turning green:
Inspect the Metal: Examine the metal setting for signs of tarnish or corrosion. If the metal appears discolored, it may be reacting with environmental factors.
Check for Chemical Exposure: Consider recent exposure to chemicals or moisture that could have contributed to the discoloration.
Consult a Professional: If the source of discoloration is unclear, consult a jeweler for a professional assessment.
Solutions and Repair
Cleaning and Restoration
Professional Cleaning: A jeweler can professionally clean and restore your ruby necklace, addressing any discoloration or tarnish issues.
Replating: For jewelry with significant tarnishing, replating with a protective layer may be necessary to prevent future issues.
Metal Replacement
If the metal setting is prone to tarnishing, consider having it replaced with a higher-quality material less susceptible to discoloration.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Regular Inspection
Regularly inspect your ruby necklace for signs of tarnish, discoloration, or damage. Early detection can prevent more significant issues and help maintain the jewelry’s appearance.
Proper Storage
Store your ruby necklace in a clean, dry place. Use anti-tarnish pouches or cloths to protect the jewelry from environmental factors that could lead to discoloration.
Gentle Cleaning
Clean your ruby necklace gently with appropriate methods to avoid damaging the gemstone or metal. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Conclusion
The issue of a ruby necklace turning green is often linked to reactions between the metal setting and environmental factors, chemical exposure, or improper care. While rubies themselves are durable and unlikely to change color, the metals used in the setting can tarnish and discolor, leading to the greenish hue observed. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing preventive measures can help preserve the beauty and integrity of your ruby jewelry.
By choosing high-quality metals, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, and practicing proper care and maintenance, you can ensure that your ruby necklace remains a stunning and cherished piece for years to come. If you encounter persistent issues or significant discoloration, consulting a professional jeweler for assessment and repair is recommended.