Brass for jewelry is a popular choice among jewelry lovers for its unique look and affordable price. However, many people have experienced their skin turning green after wearing brass jewelry which is a common problem that can be both frustrating and confusing.

At Dea Dia Jewelry, we understand how important it is to know why this happens and how to prevent it. Let’s explain the science behind why brass jewelry turns your skin green, explore why some people are more prone to skin irritation, and provide you with preventative tips to keep your jewelry looking beautiful. We'll also discuss whether brass jewelry tarnishes and whether it's a good material for jewelry-making.

The Science Behind Brass Turning Skin Green

Brass jewelry can turn skin green due to a chemical reaction between the metal and your sweat - think the statue of liberty or a penny. This reaction is caused by the copper in the brass oxidizing when it comes into contact with moisture and oxygen. Brass isn’t the only metal that can cause this reaction; other metals such as copper and bronze can also cause skin discoloration. There is no need to worry as the reaction is normal and not harmful to your health.

When brass comes into contact with skin, sometimes a chemical reaction can occur due to the copper content in the alloy. This reaction can be exacerbated by sweat and other factors, resulting in a green discoloration on the skin. The acidity of your skin can also trigger this type of reaction. Over time, brass jewelry can tarnish, which is a natural process that occurs due to exposure to air and moisture. However, tarnishing does not cause skin discoloration.

Why Some People Are More Prone to Skin Irritation

While the green discoloration is harmless for most people, some individuals are more prone to experiencing skin irritation from brass on the skin. This could be due to variations in skin pH or individual sensitivities. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, it's important to remove the jewelry and seek medical attention.

We have noticed that the green discoloration often goes away the more you wear brass and your skin gets used to it. The green is a harmless reaction that can be washed away, so you may want to experiment with continuously wearing your brass jewelry as long as your skin is not irritated. You might be surprised that the reaction diminishes over time and you end up loving brass jewelry!

How to Stop Brass from Turning Your Skin Green

You have a few options to help minimize the possibility of skin discoloration or skin irritation from brass jewelry. An effective method is to wear a barrier between your skin and the jewelry, such as clear nail polish or a product like Eternal Jewelry Coating. This barrier will prevent sweat and oils from reacting with the copper in brass.

Other strategies for minimizing skin irritation include wiping your jewelry clean with a soft cloth or polishing cloth after each use to remove any residue that may be present. We do recommend taking off your brass jewelry when you go to bed, this will further prevent discoloration. Additionally, you can try alternating your brass jewelry with pieces made from other precious metals, such as silver or gold.

To keep your brass jewelry looking its best, avoid exposing it to perfume, and other chemicals that can cause tarnishing. If it gets wet, dry it so no water spots form. Store your jewelry in a dry place or airtight container to prevent exposure to moisture and humidity. If your jewelry does tarnish, you can use a brass cleaner or a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda to restore its shine.

Why Brass is a Great Choice for Jewelry

Brass is a popular material for jewelry-making due to its affordability and unique golden color. For a more affordable option brass is a great choice for those who love the look of gold. Brass can be easily cast into intricate designs and can be plated with other metals like gold and silver to enhance its appearance since it is durable, lightweight, and versatile.

While brass jewelry can tarnish over time, proper care can help prevent this. Look for brass jewelry that has a protective coating or plating, such as gold plating, to help prolong its lifespan. At Dea Dia, we use high-quality brass that is free of lead and nickel, making it hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. If brass does irritate your skin or you prefer to avoid your skin turning green we offer alternative options including jewelry made from solid gold and sterling silver.

If you still prefer to avoid brass jewelry, we offer other jewelry options using precious metals such as sterling silver, solid gold, and gold plated. Every type of metal used for jewelry has its pros and cons. For example, gold plating can wear off over time, not everyone likes the color of silver, and solid gold is simply out of many people's price points. For example, the ingot ring from our fine jewelry collection is solid gold and is priced at $2000 whereas it's only $100 in brass.

People either love brass jewelry for the value it provides and its ability to collect a patina and be polished and re-polished over again, or they dislike it for those same reasons.

By understanding the science of why brass jewelry turns your skin green, you can make informed decisions about your jewelry choices. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy the unique beauty of brass jewelry without any unwanted side effects. Just remember to choose high-quality brass jewelry that is well-crafted and properly cared for.

Whether you love the vintage look of brass or its affordability, there's no reason to keep you from enjoying this beautiful metal and wondering if brass jewelry is good you're looking for high-quality brass jewelry that is both stylish and comfortable, be sure to check out our bestsellers.

We believe that wearing beautiful jewelry should be a joy, not a frustration. Following these simple tips will allow you to continue to enjoy the beauty and versatility of brass jewelry without worrying about brass turning your skin green.

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