Why Black Gold May Fade
Is black gold a real gold?
Black gold isn’t a naturally occurring metal. it’s created through plating (black rhodium), oxidation, or laser treatments. Unlike white or rose gold, which are alloys, black gold's color is a surface treatment that can fade over time. If buying black gold jewelry, be aware that it may need replating with wear.
Most black gold is white gold or another alloy that's been plated with black rhodium or ruthenium to achieve its dark finish. This thin coating naturally wears away with friction, exposure to lotions, perfumes, and everyday use — causing the underlying gold color to show through over time.
At PenFine:
Black gold is White gold that is rhodium plated, i.e. covered with a thin layer of metal to give it its charcoal grey colour. To put it simply: black gold is white gold but with a different rhodium plating colour.
Its longevity can vary based on care and environmental factors.Black gold is a rhodium-plated metal and will therefore lose its colour over time. Black gold rings will accelerate oxidation when overheated or in contact with cosmetics.
Normally the color can last for more 3 months if you take care it carefully.
Likewise, another source notes that both plating types require recoloring or reapplication to maintain the look.
Real-World Wear and Tear
On Reddit, users shared personal experiences where black plating faded within days or weeks:
“Black rhodium plating I’m sorry won’t last… on a style like that it will continue to essentially run off relatively fast.”
Reddit
“I … noticed like probably not even 2 weeks after I had it on the black gold started to come off.”
Reddit
So unless a piece is explicitly made from such a permanent alloy, fading over time is expected.
Why Black Gold Fades
1. It’s Usually Plated
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Most black gold jewelry isn’t naturally black — it’s made from yellow or white gold that’s plated with black rhodium or ruthenium.
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This plating layer is thin and sits on the surface, meaning it gradually wears away with friction and contact.
2. Daily Wear & Tear
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Rings and bracelets rub against surfaces constantly, so the black finish wears off fastest there.
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Lotions, perfumes, sweat, and soaps also break down the plating more quickly.
3. Thickness of the Plating
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A thin plating fades sooner. Jewelers who use a thicker or higher-quality plating can extend the life, but no plating lasts forever.
4. Not a Natural Alloy (in most cases)
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Unlike yellow, white, or rose gold, black gold isn’t a naturally occurring alloy.
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Unless made from a rare solid black gold alloy (gold mixed with metals like cobalt or palladium), the black finish is surface-only and prone to fading.
Care Tips to Minimize Fading
Avoid harsh chemicals — don’t wear your piece when swimming, showering, or applying lotions and perfumes.
Clean gently — use lukewarm water and a mild soap with a soft cloth. Abrasive cleaners can remove plating faster.
AP News
Store carefully — keep black gold jewelry separate from other pieces to prevent scratching and wear.
Final Takeaway
Most black gold jewelry fades over time because it’s a plated finish.this is a normal, expected part of wear — not a sign of poor quality.
How Often Black Gold Needs Re-Plating
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Everyday wear (rings, bracelets, watches):
Black rhodium or ruthenium plating can start fading within 3–12 months, sometimes even sooner on high-friction areas like rings. -
Occasional wear (necklaces, earrings):
May last 1–3 years before noticeable fading. -
With extra care (remove before swimming, cleaning, exercising):
You might stretch it closer to 2 years for rings and longer for low-contact pieces.
Many jewelers recommend annual touch-ups if you wear your black gold ring daily (similar to white gold rhodium plating).
Cost of Re-Plating
Prices vary by jeweler, piece size, and metal thickness, but generally:
Rings: $30–$150 per re-plating
Larger pieces (bracelets, pendants): $100–$300+
Luxury designers / custom plating: Can run $500+ if it’s done with premium ruthenium or a specialized finish.
