Everything You Wanted to Know About Tarnish, But Were Afraid to Ask!
Silver: Does Tarnish Mean My Jewelry Has A Fatal Disease?
Tarnish: It's that darkening effect that occurs when silver is exposed to oxygen. Yes, many view it as a nuisance, but that's all it is!! is a nuisance to silver, nothing more. Don't break up with silver! Keep wearing it! Keep enjoying it! And here are some techniques to keep your silver shiny, gorgeous and long lasting!
What is tarnish?
Tarnish is actually a chemical reaction on the outer layer of many metals (think the copper of the Statue of Liberty). Unlike rust which just spreads, tarnish will only happen to the upper layer, which is why you can polish silver, and its luster returns.Tarnish actually preserves the underlying metal in outdoor use, and in this form is called patina. The formation of patina is necessary in applications such as copper roofing, and outdoor copper, bronze, and brass statues and fittings. Patina is the name given to tarnish on copper based metals.
What is oxidization?
Oxidation is another term for TARNISH. It can happen when silver is exposed (not only to oxygen) but also sulfides. Many gorgeous pieces have been INTENTIONALLY oxidized in order to give the pieces some depth. It also helps because an oxidized silver piece of jewelry won't require as much maintenance as a highly polished silver.
How do I get rid of Tarnish?
Is that heirloom set of cutlery just sitting in your drawer because you're embarrassed of its condition! Have no fear! The end of tarnish is near! This really, really, really works: Bring one liter of water, one tablespoon of baking soda and one piece of aluminum foil to a boil. Drop silverware in the pot for 10 seconds (longer if it's very tarnished), then remove using kitchen tongs.
Does Gold Tarnish?
Tarnishing is a reaction to oxygen. Only metals which react to oxygen (copper, magnesium, silver - just to name a few) do react. As gold never reacts with oxygen it will not rust or tarnish.
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