Why Resin Jewellery Turns Yellow & How to Prevent It (2025 Expert Guide)

smarvaofficial24
Nov 24
5 min read

Updated: 20 hours ago

“Why resin jewellery turns yellow – clear vs yellowed resin comparison” — Blue Bloom

Resin jewellery is loved for its beauty, clarity, and ability to preserve real flowers, gold flakes, crystals, and delicate designs. But one of the most common concerns buyers have is: “Why does resin jewellery turn yellow?” If you have ever noticed your favorite resin pendant becoming slightly golden or cloudy, you are not alone.

This guide explains why resin jewellery turns yellow, the science behind it, and the exact steps to prevent yellowing so your handmade resin pieces stay bright, clear, and beautiful for years.

🌟 What Causes Resin Jewellery to Turn Yellow?

Causes of resin jewellery turning yellow – UV, oxidation, chemicals, heat

Understanding the cause is the first step to prevention. Resin can yellow over time due to UV exposure, oxidation, heat, poor-quality resin, and improper storage. Let’s look at all causes in detail.

1. UV (Sunlight) Exposure – The #1 Cause of Yellowing

This is the biggest reason why resin jewellery turns yellow.

Just like plastic becomes yellow when left in the sun, resin reacts when exposed to UV rays. Sunlight breaks molecular bonds inside the resin, leading toCommon Situations Where UV Causes Yellowing:

Wearing resin pendants during outdoor events
Leaving resin earrings near a sunny window
GlowPhool
Storing resin accessories in transparent boxes exposed to sunlight

How to prevent yellowing from UV exposure resin

Keep resin jewellery in a closed pouch or drawer
Avoid long exposure to direct sunlight
Choose brands that use UV-resistant resin

2. Oxidation Over Time

Even the best-quality resin undergoes natural oxidation. This is similar to how silver tarnishes over time.

When resin reacts with oxygen in the air, it slowly develops a warm tint. This process is slow but inevitable if the jewellery is not stored properly.

Oval earrings with pink floral patterns on a white cloth, surrounded by yellow and white flowers, set against a soft brown background.

Prevention Tips

Keep resin pieces in airtight containers
Store with anti-tarnish strips
Clean gently every few weeks with a soft cloth

3. Poor-Quality Resin or Cheap Jewellery

This is a major reason behind why resin jewellery turns yellow early.

Low-grade, craft-store resin (especially cheap epoxy resin) has:

Poor UV resistance
More impurities
Faster oxidation
Softening and clouding issues

Prevention

Buy from brands that use:

Jewellery-grade epoxy resin
UV-resistant topcoats
Non-yellowing resin formula

High-quality resin may cost more but stays clear for years.

4. Exposure to Perfumes, Chemicals & Sweat

Chemicals can speed up resin degradation.

Common everyday chemicals that cause yellowing:

Perfumes
Body lotions
Deodorants
Sunscreens
Hair sprays
Household cleaners
Hand sanitizers (contains alcohol)

Even acidic sweat can affect resin.

How to Prevent It

Wear resin jewellery after applying perfumes or lotions
Wipe the jewellery with a dry cloth after use
Avoid wearing resin pendants during workouts

5. Excessive Heat & Humidity

High temperatures can break down epoxy molecules.

Jewellery may yellow faster if:

Left in a hot car
Stored near heat sources
Kept in damp bathrooms
Exposed to kitchen steam

Prevention

Store in a cool, dry place
Use silica gel pouches in your jewellery box

6. Reactions with Metals Embedded in Resin

If real flowers, dried leaves, metal charms, or glitter are embedded, the materials inside can also cause discoloration.

Example: Cheap metal components may rust and release a yellow tint.

Prevention

Choose resin jewellery made with:

Stainless steel
Gold-plated
Non-tarnish materials

Your brand should highlight this as a premium feature.

Lavender necklaces with heart-shaped and round pendants on a white fabric adorned with purple lavender sprigs, creating a soft, elegant mood. — SHINE DROPS

🌸 How to Prevent Resin Jewellery from Turning Yellow

Now you know why resin jewellery turns yellow, let’s cover how to stop it.

Below are the 7 most effective ways to keep your resin jewellery clear and fresh:

1. Store Properly

Keep jewellery in a soft pouch
Use airtight boxes
Add silica gel to absorb moisture

2. Keep Away from Sunlight

Even indirect sunlight can cause slow yellowing. Store jewellery in a dark drawer.

3. Clean Regularly

Use:

A soft microfiber cloth
No chemicals
No water on floral resin pieces

Cleaning helps remove surface oils that speed yellowing.

4. Avoid Contact with Perfumes & Chemicals

Always:

Apply perfume before wearing
Remove jewellery before entering a pool or beach
Keep away from sanitizers

5. Choose High-Quality Resin Jewellery

If you buy from skilled handmade artists using:

UV-resistant epoxy
Non-yellowing resin
High-quality flower preservation techniques

Your jewellery will last years without yellowing.

6. Keep Resin Jewellery Dry

Moisture + heat accelerates oxidation.

Never store resin jewellery:

In bathrooms
Near steam
In humid containers

7. Use UV-Blocking Topcoats (For Makers)

If you also make resin jewellery, sealing with:

UV resin topcoat
Protective varnish

adds a protective layer that blocks yellowing.

Gold dolphin earrings and bracelet with black heart and flower shapes on a gray background, surrounded by pink cherry blossoms. — DOLPHIN DRIP

⭐ Is It Possible to Fix Yellowed Resin Jewellery?

Sometimes yes — but it depends.

What You Can Fix

Slight yellowing can be reduced with polishing
You can apply a new UV topcoat
Makers can sand the top layer and recoat

What You Cannot Fix

Deep oxidation
Yellowing caused by embedded metals
Poor-quality resin

Most customers prefer preventive care, not repair.

Gold necklace and earrings with glittery green and blue pendants on a stone surface, surrounded by lush green foliage. — Shimmer Splash

🌼 Why Buying Premium Handmade Resin Jewellery Matters

Buying high-quality resin jewellery reduces yellowing because makers typically use:

UV-stable jewellery resin
Proper flower drying techniques
Sealing methods
Anti-yellowing formulas

If your brand offers these, highlight them in your product descriptions.

Bright yellow flower-shaped earrings with red accents on a rich red fabric background, creating a bold and elegant contrast. — Turmeric Twirls

🧡 Final Thoughts

Now you understand why resin jewellery turns yellow and how simple habits can prevent it. With the right storage, proper care, and high-quality resin, your jewellery can stay clear, glossy, and beautiful for years.

Resin jewellery is not “cheap plastic”—it is handmade art that requires thoughtful care, just like silver or gold. Treat it well, and it will remain a unique, eye-catching piece in your collection.