What causes Rose Gold to fade?

[Dr.Smellody]

I wear this 116515 most of the time, including swimming (why I put it on a RubberB), and haven't seen any fade.

[peterpl]

Originally Posted by Dr.Smellody

I wear this 116515 most of the time, including swimming (why I put it on a RubberB), and haven't seen any fade.

Yours is the new Ever Rose - it wont fade or change color.

[Devildog]

When rose gold is first cast it can look more yellow (I’ve seen it first hand become more rose with a polish). I’ve also seen rose fade to more yellow gold. As said, Everose is not supposed to fade, however:

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=542824

May suggest otherwise

I also feel that my Daytona changed a little over time, becoming less coppery than it was when brand new. A light polish may have fixed that however.

Wouldn’t stop me having another one.

[ras47]

I don't believe that gold actually fades. But it can develop a patina. Easily buffed off though.

[jaySL350]

Originally Posted by AliJoi5

Hmmm I must tell you, as someone who studied at the GIA (and took courses in precious metals and alloys), I have never heard of solid rose gold fading. I also own quite a bit of it, and have never had a problem.

As with any precious metal or natural gem, do keep it away from chemicals, household cleaners, perfumes, lotions, etc. I've never heard of fading, but any of those substances can pit precious metals and their alloys over time.

Continued exposure to strong UV light can cause certain gem colors to fade, but I've never heard of that occurrence with gold, rose or otherwise. So, again, I wouldn't think that'd be a concern. Then again, I would never wear my fine jewelry to the beach for a day of frolicking in the sand and surf. But some folks do. Eek!

To create rose gold, natural yellow gold is alloyed with mostly copper and a little bit of silver. 18k RG, which is what Rolex uses exclusively, would be 75% gold, about 22% copper, and about 3% pure silver. Neither natural yellow gold nor copper is prone to fading, so, again, I'm not sure why the alloy would be any different. Copper, of course, can discolor and oxidize over time or when exposed to the elements, but not in this particular alloy, and it still wouldn't account for the fading. The only scenario I can think of would be yellow gold that has been merely PLATED with rose gold. Naturally, Rolex would never take such a short cut. But with other rose gold products, always be sure to ask if the item is SOLID rose gold and not plated yellow gold.

Interesting topic... hope this helps a bit. ��

Great insight ,,
Thanks for sharing,,,,