How To Care For Your Titanium Jewelry?

Titanium is a rather durable material and due to this, titanium jewelry has become popular among many people today. Titanium is corrosion resistant and has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal. In its unalloyed state, titanium can also be as strong as some types of steels but lighter by up to 45%. Having these very unique properties give it a special niche in the jewelry industry, most especially on the engagement ring and wedding band market.

In comparison, titanium is more affordable than gold, platinum or tungsten but can still compete when it comes to style and durability. Yet, it costs more when compared with industrial metals like stainless steel. Titanium can also be processed to produce different alloys that have various colors which do not fade like coating or paint.

But no matter how strong and durable titanium is, like any other metal, it is not completely scratch-resistant. Here are some ways on how to take care and preserve the look of your jewelry made of titanium.

Basically, titanium is very resilient. It is rather low maintenance compared to gold or silver that needs constant polishing using special chemicals. Titanium is hypoallergenic and has low reactivity to body fluids like sweat. Dirt and grime can be cleaned by wiping it using a soft cloth. For dulling stains made by fingerprints, sebum or oil, jewelry made of titanium can be washed using ordinary, non-moisturizing soap and water. Alcohol or acetone can also be used but stay away from using metal polishes or scrubbing soap because these chemicals have abrasives that can scrub away some layers of titanium, more so on jewelry with color.

Storing jewelry made of titanium must also put into consideration to help preserve its pristine condition. Using individual boxes is the most preferred though jewelry boxes with compartments is also good. Try to store jewelry in a compact space not much larger than the piece itself to prevent various parts or other things from rubbing or scratching the jewelry. Depending on the style of the jewelry, even small scratches can be noticeable so try not to keep titanium pieces on loose boxes or drawers.

Also, never wear titanium jewelry while doing manual work like gardening or working out in the gym where it can make constant contact with hard surfaces. The color of titanium is usually achieved by getting anodized to change the refractive nature of the surface crystals of the metal. Though it will not chip or fade naturally, color can fade or get removed when the surface layer of the metal gets removed either by scratching or through exposure on abrasive agents. Titanium is tough but it is no adamantium.

With a very unique niche in the industry that most likely will stay strong for more years to come, titanium jewelry is a very good investment for those looking for stylish and unique accessories. But just like everything, it cannot last forever yet with proper care and a little bit of cleaning; those who choose titanium will be rewarded with its long lasting luster.