Does surgical steel tarnish? NO. 316L surgical steel is built to last—resistant to corrosion, fading, and tarnishing, even with everyday wear.
In this guide, we will share honest truths on the properties, benefits, and maintenance procedures of surgical steel jewelry to show you that they don’t tarnish.
What Is 316L Surgical Steel Jewelry?
What is surgical steel jewelry? Also known as 316L stainless steel jewelry, it is an alloy that’s largely made of iron, 16-18% of chromium, 10-14% of nickel, and a little quantity of molybdenum (2-3%).
Is 316L stainless steel good for jewelry? Yes, the “L” in 316L signifies low carbon (typically below 0.03%), which is the major reason why this jewelry can conveniently resist tarnishing.
What Is Gold Surgical Steel Jewelry?
Gold surgical steel jewelry combines the durability of 316L stainless steel with the aesthetic appeal of gold. This is typically achieved by plating a layer of gold on the stainless steel. Explore our detailed guide on stainless steel gold jewelry to learn more about its features and benefits.
Is stainless steel gold real? Yes, the base metal is high-grade stainless steel and the gold layer applied on it is real.
Does 316L Surgical Stainless Steel Jewelry Tarnish?
If you’re looking for what types of jewelry do not tarnish, surgical stainless steel is among the top-rated and does not tarnish. Its high chromium content forms a protective oxide layer that prevents oxidation and discoloration. Unlike porous metals that absorb moisture, lotions, or oils, surgical steel’s dense structure prevents tarnish from developing over time. This makes it one of the most reliable materials for long-lasting, low-maintenance jewelry pieces.
Does Gold Surgical Steel Tarnish or Fade?
Whether gold surgical steel jewelry tarnishes or fades depends mainly on the coating method and quality. Jewelry made with high-quality PVD gold plating can maintain its shine for at least one to two years or longer. In contrast, pieces with thin or electroplated layers may lose their color more quickly. For jewelry brands, choosing PVD-coated 316L stainless steel ensures both the aesthetic appeal of gold and the structural durability of surgical steel.
Does 316L Stainless Steel Contain Nickel? Does It Necessarily Mean Harmful to People?
Yes, 316L stainless steel does contain a small amount of nickel. However, this doesn’t necessarily make it harmful to wearers. What matters is not the nickel content itself, but the nickel release rate.
316L surgical steel has an extremely low nickel release—well below the REACH regulation threshold of 0.5 μg/cm²/week. This makes it safe for most people, including those with mild sensitivities. It’s widely used in medical implants and body jewelry for this reason.
Is Stainless Steel the Same as Surgical Steel Jewelry?
Not exactly. While both belong to the stainless steel family, surgical steel—specifically 316L—is a refined, hypoallergenic version with superior resistance to tarnish and corrosion. Explore the pros and cons of stainless steel, and examine this table to see the comparison between stainless steel vs surgical steel jewelry:
| Feature | 304 Stainless Steel | 316L Surgical Steel |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Highly Sensitive |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Tarnish Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Jewelry Applications | General fashion jewelry | Body jewelry, earrings, premium jewelry |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher but worth the performance |
| Durability for Daily Wear | High | Higher |
Benefits of Surgical Steel Jewelry
Surgical steel jewelry offers numerous advantages that make it an excellent choice for people seeking durable and beautiful accessories.
- Resistance to Corrosion and Tarnishing
Does 316L stainless steel tarnish? No. The chromium content and the PVD gold coating jewelry method make it capable of withstanding corrosion and tarnishing. The jewelry becomes tough and creates a protective oxide layer to fight against rust, discoloration, and deterioration.
- Ideal for Sensitive Skin Customers
Surgical steel jewelry is one of nickel-safe options for EU/US compliance. It is hypoallergenic and biocompatible, making it safe for individuals with sensitive skin to metals. Also, the low nickel content and medical-grade purity reduce the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
- Durability
The hardness and strength of the alloyed metals (iron, chromium, nickel, and molybdenum) resist scratches, dents, and deformation. This durability makes it ideal for everyday wear without losing its shape or appearance.
As Jewelry Brands: What Types of Jewelry Are Highly Recommended for Surgical Steel?
Surgical steel’s unique properties make it particularly well-suited for specific types of jewelry, especially in cases where other metals cannot be used, such as:
Body Jewelry and Piercings
Surgical steels are medical-grade certified and the best metal for piercing jewelry. They are safe for fresh piercings and long-term wear in sensitive parts of the body. Their non-porous surfaces prevent bacterial growth and improve proper healing.
Jewelry for Kids and Babies
Kids and babies are more prone to metal sensitivities, but surgical steel’s hypoallergenic properties ensure there is no reaction. The metal’s toughness makes it resistant to damage from rough play or exposure to water.
Permanent Jewelry
Surgical steel is also applicable in jewelry pieces where the parts are welded or soldered to eliminate the need for clasps. The metal’s strength prevents breaking or weakening at connection points, while its hypoallergenic properties allow for comfortable long-term wear.
Earrings
Earrings made from 316L stainless steel are best for sensitive ears or new piercings. The metal’s smooth surface and biocompatibility reduce irritation and promote healing. One common question people ask is, “do surgical steel earrings tarnish?” — the answer is no. Thanks to the chromium layer, surgical steel earrings resist tarnishing even with daily wear, making them ideal for long-term use.
How to Clean Surgical Steel Jewelry?
Surgical steel jewelry is low maintenance, but occasional cleaning keeps it looking its best. Here’s a quick 5-step process:
- Step 1: Prepare Soapy Water
Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of non-abrasive soap.
- Step 2: Soak the Jewelry
Deep the jewelry into the soapy water and leave it for 10-15 minutes.
- Step 3: Gently Brush
Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the jewelry to remove stubborn stains.
- Step 4: Rinse and Dry
Thoroughly rinse the jewelry under clean, running water, and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Step 5: Polish and Store
For extra shine, polish the jewelry with a microfiber cloth using circular motions, and store in a clean, dry jewelry box.
Tip: If you’re also wearing gold-plated stainless steel pieces, consider learning the best practices for brands and consumers to keep gold plated ss from tarnishing so your entire collection stays looking fresh and polished.
Conclusion
Does surgical steel jewelry tarnish? NO. It’s made of a strong base metal (stainless steel) and a durable layer of PVD gold, which makes it a great choice for people who want durable and eye-catching jewelry. However, it may tarnish if it’s not properly manufactured or the coating quality is low. Thus, it’s advisable you buy from a professional custom jewelry manufacturer with verifiable experience in producing quality.
FAQs
Yes, stainless steel jewelry is tarnish-free. Its chromium content forms a protective layer that prevents oxidation, keeping the surface shiny and untarnished even with daily wear and minimal maintenance.
Yes, it is specifically recommended by professionals because of its smooth, non-porous surface that prevents bacterial growth and promotes proper healing.
Yes, it contains nickel. However, the content is too little to cause an allergy. It is a medical grade of stainless steel, making it safe.
Yes, you can wear surgical steel jewelry in the shower. It is also one of the best jewelry to wear in the pool and ocean. The metal’s corrosion resistance enables it to withstand water and shower products. However, avoid immersing in soapy water for a long time.
For 316L stainless steel without coating, it can last a lifetime. For PVD coated 316L steel, it can last at least 2 years without tarnishing or fading as long as it’s properly maintained.
Both of them have distinct advantages depending on individual needs, but generally, surgical steel is more affordable, offers better durability, tarnish resistance, and hypoallergenic properties.
