Why is my silver jewelry darkening?
Discover the causes, solutions, and how to maintain its shine longer.
Have you ever wondered why those beautiful silver jewelry you love loses its shine and turns dark or yellowish? Don't worry, you're not alone. It's a very common phenomenon that affects many people, and understanding its causes is the first step to better caring for your pieces.
In this article, we explain why this change occurs, why it's a natural process, and how you can restore its shine with practical and effective tips.
Black or yellowish silver: Why does it happen?
Silver, despite being a precious and durable metal, is susceptible to chemical processes such as oxidation and sulfurization . These reactions are the main causes of your jewelry losing its shine and taking on dark or yellow tones.
1. Oxidation
Silver reacts with the oxygen present in the air, forming silver oxide, a dark-colored compound that adheres to the surface of jewelry. This process, similar to that of iron oxide, does not cause corrosion but does cause tarnishing. Humidity and environmental pollution can accelerate this reaction.
2. Sulfurization (reaction with sulfur)
Silver also reacts with sulfur, an element found in the air, some foods, cleaning products, and cosmetics. This creates silver sulfide, a black compound that adheres to the surface of your jewelry. Hydrogen sulfide , present in pollution and certain industrial processes, is especially aggressive toward silver.
Is it normal for silver to tarnish?
Yes, it's completely normal! Silver is a reactive metal, which means it tends to interact with other substances present in the environment. Tarnishing doesn't indicate poor quality or that your jewelry is fake; it's simply a natural reaction that can be prevented or reversed with proper care.
Factors that accelerate darkening
- Humidity: Promotes oxidation.
- Pollution: Gases such as hydrogen sulfide accelerate sulfurization.
- Chemicals: Perfumes, lotions, chlorine, and cleaning products affect silver.
- Sweat: Contains compounds that react with the metal surface.
- Skin pH: More acidic skin can darken silver more quickly.
- Foods: Some foods, such as eggs or onions, contain sulfur, which can be transferred to the jewelry.
Tips to keep your silver jewelry radiant
- Regular cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth after each use to remove sweat, dirt, and chemical residue.
- Proper storage: Store your jewelry in a cool, dry, and dark place. Laurella jewelry comes with a leather pouch perfect for safekeeping.
- Avoid contact with chemicals: Do not use them when applying perfumes, lotions, or swimming in pools.
- Professional cleaning: At Laurella, we offer a free professional cleaning every year to keep your jewelry looking new.
- Home remedies: Baking soda, vinegar, or lemon can be used with caution for home cleaning. Always follow safe instructions.
- Special cloths: There are cloths designed to clean silver, with gentle products that remove oxide and sulfide without damaging it.
Conclusion
Silver tarnishing is a natural and inevitable process, but that doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to dull jewelry. With proper care and a little attention, you can preserve its shine and beauty for many years.
Follow these practical tips and don't let the passage of time dull the value of your pieces. Take care of them, pamper them, and let them continue to shine with you.
Want to learn how to clean them at home? Watch this video we prepared especially for you:
