Maintain Your Titanium Jewelry

Titanium is a remarkable material and due to this, titanium jewelry has become a hot item among many people nowadays. Corrosion resistant and has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal, titanium in its unalloyed state can also be as strong as some types of steels but lighter by up to 45%. With these very unique characteristics, titanium gets a special niche in the jewelry industry, most especially on the wedding band and engagement ring market.

Comparing it with gold, platinum or tungsten, titanium is relatively cheaper but can still compete when it comes to durability and design. Yet, it costs a little higher compared with industrial metals like stainless steel. It can also be processed to produce different alloys that have various hues which unlike coating or paint, will not fade over time.

Like any other metal, no matter how strong and durable titanium is not completely scratch-resistant. Here are some tips on how to preserve and care for the look of your titanium accessories.

Titanium is very tough. It has very low maintenance compared to gold or silver that needs to be constantly buffed up using special chemicals or services. This unique metal is also hypoallergenic and has low reactivity to body fluids like sweat. Dirt and grime can be wiped off using a soft cloth. For stains made by fingerprints, sebum or oil, jewelry made of titanium can be cleansed using ordinary, non-moisturizing soap plus water. You can also use alcohol or acetone but stay away from metal polishes or scrubbing soap due to the abrasives these types of chemicals have that can scrub away some layers of titanium that can affect the jewelry’s color.

Storing titanium accessories must also be considered to help maintain its good condition. Individual boxes can be used and actually preferred though jewelry boxes with compartments are also good. Store your jewelry in a compact space not much larger than the piece itself to prevent various parts like chains or other things from rubbing or scratching it. Depending on the style of the jewelry, even small scratches can be very obvious so try not to keep titanium pieces on loose places like big boxes or drawers.

While doing manual work like gardening or working out in the gym, it is not advisable to wear jewelry made of titanium where it can make constant contact with hard surfaces. Because the color of titanium is usually achieved by anodization which changes the refractive nature of the surface crystals of the metal it is vital not to let this surface to get scratched. Though it will not chip easily or fade naturally, color can fade 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.

Having a very unique niche in the industry that will most likely stay hot for years to come, titanium jewelry is worth every penny for people who are looking for stylish and unique accessories. Yet just like everything in this world, titanium cannot last forever but with proper care and a little bit of cleaning once in a while, those who choose titanium will be rewarded with its long lasting luster and beauty.