Why Does Silver Turn Black?
Has your sterling silver jewelry tarnished? Or does your ring leave a black or green mark on your finger? Here are some possible explanations and some steps you can take to fix the situation.
Here's the answer to why silver turns black
Silver turns black due to hydrogen sulfide (S) on the periodic table, a substance found in the air. When silver comes into contact with it, a chemical reaction occurs and a black layer forms. Silver tarnishes faster in places with lots of light and high humidity.
In addition, contact with products such as cosmetics, hair sprays, perfumes, deodorants, body lotions, bleaches, etc. can speed up the tarnishing process.
On top of this, the natural oils your skin produces can also react with your sterling silver jewelry. The extent to which silver reacts with these skin substances depends largely on the type of foods you eat, your alcohol intake, and whether you are taking any medications.
These things affect the acidity of your skin, which can cause a reaction. In addition, sweat (which contains ammonia) increases the acidity of the skin and can tarnish silver.
It is false and a myth that sterling silver jewelry that turns black is made with less silver or no silver at all. The tarnishing of sterling silver jewelry is actually a sign that it really is silver. Other (noble) metals tarnish differently.
Some tips to care for your sterling silver jewelry
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Don't store your silver jewelry in humid places like the bathroom or kitchen.
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Put on your silver jewelry after you have applied makeup, perfume, hair spray and other beauty products.
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Take off your silver jewelry when you go swimming, cleaning (cleaning products are very harsh), washing your hands, or coming into contact with seawater (salt water).
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Take off your silver jewelry if you sweat a lot. For example, in case of fever or intense exercise.
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Store your silver jewelry in a sealed bag that is protected from air and keep it in a dark place.
