Keeping Silver Shiny: How to Prevent Tarnishing of Silver

How to Prevent Tarnishing of Silver

In the term "sterling silver," the word "sterling" refers to the quality or standard of the silver. Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This specific composition is what gives it the designation of "sterling" silver.

The use of the term "sterling" to describe this type of silver can be traced back to medieval England. The word "sterling" originally denoted "little star" in Old Norman French, and it was used to describe a silver penny that was minted in England around the 12th century. Over time, the term "sterling" became associated with high-quality silver, and it has since been used to describe the 92.5% silver alloy that is commonly used for jewelry and various other silver items.

The phenomenon of silver turning black or tarnishing is primarily caused by a chemical reaction between the silver and sulfur-containing compounds in the air. The black tarnish is actually a layer of silver sulfide that forms on the surface of silver. A dark substance that gives the silver a blackish appearance. To prevent silver from tarnishing, several methods can be employed during its production and storage.

1. Sterling Silver: Choose rings made of sterling silver, which is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (often copper). Sterling silver is more durable and less prone to tarnishing than pure silver.

2. Protective Coatings: Rhodium is a precious metal that is highly resistant to tarnishing and corrosion. Some silver rings are plated with a thin layer of rhodium to protect the underlying silver from tarnishing

3. Anti-Tarnish Coatings: Some jewelry manufacturers apply anti-tarnish (Clear Lacquer) coatings to their silver pieces. These coatings create a barrier that slows down the reaction between silver and sulfur-containing compounds.

4. Proper Storage: Store your silver in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container or a ziplock bag. This helps to minimize its exposure to air and slows down the tarnishing process. When storing silver items, using anti-tarnish paper or cloth can help absorb and neutralize airborne sulfur compounds, slowing down the tarnishing process.

5. A controlled environment: Storing silver items in a controlled environment with low humidity and minimal exposure to sulfur-containing compounds can help reduce tarnishing.

6. Avoid Exposure to Harsh Chemicals: Keep your silver ring away from chemicals such as household cleaners, perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays, as they can accelerate tarnishing.

7. Regular Cleaning: Clean your silver ring regularly using mild soap and warm water. Gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush to remove any dirt or oils that can contribute to tarnishing. Regular cleaning and polishing: Cleaning silver items regularly can remove tarnish and slow down the tarnishing process. However, be gentle during cleaning to avoid scratching the surface.

8. Use Anti-Tarnish Strips: Store your silver ring with anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets, which help absorb moisture and prevent tarnishing.

9. Avoiding certain substances: Contact with substances like rubber, latex, and certain foods (e.g., eggs, mustard) can accelerate tarnishing, so it's best to avoid contact between silver and these materials. 

It's important to note that even with these precautions, silver jewelry may eventually tarnish over time, especially with exposure to air and various environmental factors. However, by following these practices, you can significantly slow down the tarnishing process and keep your silver looking beautiful for longer periods.