Anti-Tarnish vs Imitation vs Real Gold Jewellery: What's the Difference?
In Kerala, most of us own all three kinds of jewellery. Each has its place. Here's how they compare, so you know what to buy for which occasion.
Real gold jewellery
- Made of: 22K or 18K gold (look for the BIS hallmark).
- Best for: weddings, investment, heirlooms.
- Durability: lasts a lifetime and keeps its value.
- Price: highest; changes with the gold rate.
- Downside: costly to lose, and many people don't want to wear it daily for safety reasons.
Imitation (fashion) jewellery
- Made of: usually brass, copper or alloy, with gold plating. Includes traditional styles like palakka, nagapadam, kemp and temple jewellery.
- Best for: weddings, festivals and functions, when you want a grand traditional look.
- Durability: can darken or lose its shine with water, sweat and perfume, so it needs careful storage.
- Price: affordable.
Anti-tarnish stainless steel jewellery
- Made of: stainless steel with 18K gold plating.
- Best for: everyday wear: office, college, travel, daily outfits.
- Durability: the steel doesn't tarnish, turn black or turn green, and you can wear it in water.
- Price: affordable.
- Style: mostly modern and minimal: dainty chains, pendants, studs, hoops, bracelets and rings.
Side by side
| Real gold | Imitation | Anti-tarnish steel | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily wear | Possible, but risky | Not ideal | Made for it |
| Water & sweat | Fine | Can darken | Fine |
| Turns skin green | No | Sometimes | No |
| Traditional styles | Yes | Widest choice | Limited |
| Price | Highest | Low | Low |
Which should you choose?
- For your wedding or a big function: real gold, or imitation for the traditional look without the cost.
- For every day: anti-tarnish stainless steel. Wear it, wash your hands, go out in the rain, and it still looks good.
- For gifts: anti-tarnish pieces are a safe choice, because they won't disappoint after a few weeks of wear.
Already own anti-tarnish pieces? Here's how to care for them.
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