Will 14K Gold Tarnish? Everything You Need to Know

Have you bought 14K Gold or are you thinking of buying some? Either way, you must be wondering: Will 14k gold tarnish? Let’s get this out of the way. Yes, it can, but not easily. Lower quality gold or gold-plated jewellery aren’t the most durable materials, but 14K gold? They resist tarnishing, fading and discolouration very well. 

However, if you aren’t careful and slip-up one too many times, its appearance can be affected in certain conditions. So what are the dos and don’ts? We are here to discuss that so your 14K gold jewellery stays beautiful for years to come!

What Makes 14K Gold So Popular? 

What is 14K gold? It is made of 58.3% pure gold mixed with 41.7% alloy metals like copper, silver, nickel, or zinc. This composition is the secret of its durability but also its aesthetics, which is why it’s such a perfect choice for everyday jewellery. How do other karats compare to 14K?

• 24K gold is 99.9% pure but very soft and easily scratched.
• 18K gold contains 75% gold and is slightly more luxe but still softer than 14K.
• 14K gold is tougher, more affordable, and far better suited for daily wear.

Whether it’s a name necklace, a wedding band, or everyday hoops, 14K gold jewellery can withstand the rigours of everyday life.

Curious which gold works best for your skin tone? Our guide, Which Gold Colour Matches Your Skin Tone, has you covered.

Does 14K Gold Tarnish or Fade Over Time?

Your 14K gold is durable but not invincible! 14K gold will make any outfit gorgeous, but in return, it requires your care and attention to not tarnish.

Tarnishing happens when metals like copper or silver in the alloy react with moisture, air, sweat, or chemicals. Discolouration is different and looks like a slight darkening or dullness.

Does 14k gold fade? Not in the way gold-plated jewellery does, but you may notice a gradual loss of shine over the years. So, will 14K gold turn black or dull? Only if exposed regularly to moisture, chlorine, or abrasive chemicals, but the process is slow and can often be reversed. 

How Durable Is 14K Gold?

The best thing about 14K, without a doubt, is its long-lasting nature. Give it the right type of care and love, and it will be your companion for a lifetime!

Sure, it’s not as pure as 24K or 18K, but that’s exactly why it’s so durable. You can rock it every day without stressing about it getting scratched up.

Keep it away from humidity and sweat, since constant wear can dull its sparkle a bit. Oh, and rings or bracelets? They deal with more friction, so they might show wear faster than your necklaces or earrings.

Is It Okay to Wear 14K Gold Every Day?

The reason why 14K is loved by so many in the UK is that it’s ideal for everyday wear. It is safe for daily wear and very resistant to damage.

Pros:

• Resists scratches better than softer gold types
• Less likely to warp or bend
• More affordable than 18K or 24K
• Available in a range of designs 

Cons:

• It may lose its lustre over time, but preventable
• Sensitive skin might react to certain alloys, but unlikely

Can You Shower or Wash with 14K Gold On?

Will 14k gold tarnish if you take it to the shower? While many people do, it’s not recommended to expose 14K gold to water repeatedly.

Soap residue and shampoo can make gold look dull.

Chlorine and hard water can corrode alloy metals.

Best practice: Take off your gold before swimming, showering, or applying lotions and perfumes.

If you want a full guide on everything related to gold jewellery, take a look at: Complete Gold Jewellery Handbook, where we cover everything from types and styling to long-term care tips.

Can You Prevent 14K Gold from Tarnishing

14K gold will tarnish, but prevention is your first line of defence against it.

• • Store jewellery in soft, dry pouches
  • Avoid contact with moisture, makeup, and chemicals.
  • Wipe down your gold pieces with a soft cloth after wear. 

Keeping your jewellery dry and separated prevents unwanted reactions and scratches.

Cleaning Tips

So, how to untarnish gold safely at home?

DIY Cleaning Tips:

• • Mix warm water with mild dish soap
  • Soak your jewellery for 15–20 minutes
  • Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, then dry with a lint-free cloth

What to Avoid:

• • Toothpaste or baking soda (too abrasive)
  • Harsh jewellery cleaners unless labelled safe for gold

Professional Help: For deeply tarnished or delicate pieces, a jeweller’s ultrasonic cleaner or steam treatment might be better.

Learn more in detail by reading How to Make Your Gold Jewellery Shine Like New.

Does Fake or Cheap Gold Jewellery Tarnish Faster?

Cheap gold jewellery may look the part, but it often tarnishes in weeks, and there's a good reason for that.

• • Gold-plated items have only a thin layer of gold over base metals like brass.
  • These layers rub off quickly, exposing reactive metals that tarnish and irritate skin.
  • Cheap pieces often cut corners on quality, durability, and ethical sourcing.

How to Know If Your 14K Gold Is Real

Wondering whether that necklace you got was real gold or just good plating?

Quick tests at home:

• • Look for a stamp like “14K,” or “14 KT”
  • Use a magnet, real gold won’t stick
  • Rub lightly on a cloth: black marks may suggest fake

For conclusive results, consult a jeweller and ask for a purity test or acid check.

Learn more about the investment value and quality of 14K in Is 14K Gold Worth It? Price, Purity & Popular Jewellery Choices.

Why Solid 14K Gold Is a Winner

• • It’s durable and won’t chip or flake.
  • 14K has the perfect balance: strong yet golden in colour.
  • It can resist tarnishing far better than cheaper alternatives.

Whether it’s a name necklace, dainty bracelet, or stacked rings, 14K gold jewellery holds up to real life and looks great doing it.

Conclusion

So, will 14K gold tarnish? Yes, but only under certain conditions, and it’s easily preventable with proper care. Compared to cheaper alternatives or even higher-karat golds, 14K stands out for its durability, affordability, and longevity.

Choose smart. Clean regularly. And treat your gold with love. Your jewellery will thank you.

Explore Argent & Asher’s 14K jewellery, designed to be worn daily, and priced more reasonably than many fashion brands.