Caring for Plated Metal Dice: Avoid Chipping and Tarnish
By DND Dice, Dressed for the Quest | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to care for plated metal dice like Avalore sets to prevent chipping and tarnish. Simple diagnosis and maintenance steps keep your dice rolling for years.
Quick Answer
Plated metal dice need gentle handling and dry storage to avoid chipping and tarnish. Use a soft pouch, avoid hard surfaces, and wipe after each session.
Why Plating Needs Extra Care
Plated dice have a thin metal layer over a base material. This gives them a striking look—like the dark, mythril-like finish of the Shadowlance with Gold set—but the plating can chip if knocked against hard surfaces or other dice. Tarnish occurs when moisture or oils from your hands react with the metal over time.
The good news: a few simple habits can prevent both issues. You don't need special tools, just consistent care.
Diagnosis & Care Steps
- Symptom: You see small flakes or chips on the dice edges, or a dull, discolored patch on the surface. Check dice after each session for early signs.
- Likely Cause: Chipping comes from rolling on hard surfaces (stone, metal, or bare wood) or storing dice loose in a bag where they knock together. Tarnish is caused by moisture, sweat, or exposure to air over time. Switch to a soft rolling surface and a lined dice bag or pouch.
- Corrective Action: For light tarnish, gently wipe with a dry microfiber cloth. For chipping, stop using the dice immediately—once the plating lifts, it will continue to peel. Store each set in a separate soft pouch or compartment, away from humidity. If chipping has started, the dice are best retired from regular use.
- When to Stop or Choose Another Option: If you frequently play on rough surfaces or prefer a more durable finish, consider unplated metal dice or polymer sets. Plated dice are best for display or occasional light rolling. Match the dice to your play style to avoid disappointment.
Product Facts
- 7pc RPG Set - Shadowlance with Gold: These black dice look like a fantastical and mythical alloy but are light as a sunbeam dancing on the leaves. The gold ink provides a striking contrast. The lightweight feel means the plating is thin, so gentle handling is essential to avoid chipping the finish.
7pc RPG Set - Shadowlance with Gold - 7pc RPG Set - Voidreaver with Silver: These purple dice look like a fantastical and mythical alloy but are light as a sunbeam dancing on the leaves. The purple ink provides a rich, deep color. The delicate plating and vivid ink require dry storage and careful rolling to keep the color from fading or chipping.
7pc RPG Set - Voidreaver with Silver
