RFID Tags in Jewellery: How Long Do RFID Tags Last?

If you own a jewellery business, you know how important inventory tracking is. Losing a single piece can cost thousands of dollars, and manual counting is slow and full of mistakes.

That’s why many jewellery brands are now using RFID technology to track their stock.

But here’s a common question: How long do RFID tags last in jewellery?

The good news?

RFID tags can last for years—sometimes even a lifetime! But it depends on a few factors. In this blog, we’ll break it down in simple words so you know exactly what to expect.

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What Are RFID Tags & How Do They Work in Jewellery?

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags are tiny chips attached to jewellery pieces. These tags store information about the jewellery, like the item name, weight, and price.

With an RFID reader, you can scan hundreds of pieces in seconds, even if they are inside a jewellery tray or box. This makes inventory tracking faster, easier, and 100% accurate.

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How Long Do RFID Tags Last?

The lifespan of an RFID tag depends on its type. Let’s look at the two main types used in jewellery:

1.⁠ ⁠Passive RFID Tags (Most Common in Jewellery)

✅ Lifespan: 10–20 years (or more!)

✅ No battery required – Works using radio waves from the RFID reader

✅ Affordable and long-lasting

Most jewellery businesses use passive RFID tags because they last for years without needing replacement. These tags do not have a battery, so they never run out of power.

2.⁠ ⁠Active RFID Tags (Rarely Used in Jewellery)

✅ Lifespan: 3–5 years

✅ Has a battery – Works at a longer range (up to 100 meters)

✅ More expensive

Active RFID tags have a built-in battery, which helps them work over long distances. But the battery runs out after a few years, so they need replacement. That’s why jewellery stores and manufacturers rarely use them.

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Factors That Affect RFID Tag Lifespan

Even though passive RFID tags last for decades, a few things can affect their lifespan:

🔹 Material & Quality – High-quality RFID tags last longer than cheap ones.

🔹 Usage & Handling – If the tags are constantly bent, scratched, or exposed to harsh chemicals, they may wear out faster.

🔹 Storage Conditions – Keeping jewellery in a clean, dry environment helps RFID tags stay in good condition.

🔹 Frequency of Scanning – Frequent scanning does not affect lifespan, but rough handling during scanning can damage the tag.

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Do RFID Tags Need Replacement?

In most cases, RFID tags do not need replacement because passive tags last 10–20 years or more. However, you may need to replace a tag if:

✔ It gets physically damaged (scratched, broken, or removed).

✔ It stops responding to RFID readers due to wear and tear.

✔ You want to update product information, and a new tag is easier than reprogramming the old one.

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Why Top Jewellery Brands Use RFID Tags

✅ Fast inventory tracking – Scan hundreds of jewellery pieces in seconds.

✅ 100% accuracy – No stock mismatches or manual errors.

✅ Long lifespan – Passive RFID tags last decades without replacement.

✅ Better security – Reduces theft and stock loss.

✅ Saves time & money – Less manual work means lower labor costs and more profits.

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Final Thoughts: Are RFID Tags Worth It?

Absolutely! RFID tags last for years, making them a smart investment for jewellery businesses. Instead of spending hours counting stock manually, you can scan everything in seconds—with zero mistakes.

If your jewellery business isn’t using RFID yet, it’s time to make the switch. It’s a one-time investment that gives long-term benefits.

Want to learn more?

Contact Tagway today to see how RFID can help your jewellery business!