Why does silver turn black on the human body and what to do about it

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18.122020

Silver is a popular precious metal that is widely used to make jewelry such as rings, earrings and chains. It has high ductility and chemical resistance. Products made from it can gracefully and elegantly complement any outfit, be it a business suit for the office or an evening dress for a festive event. But sooner or later, silver jewelry begins to darken, losing its original shine.

Why does silver turn black?

The appearance of a dark coating (patina) on a silver product is a natural process due to the fact that copper is always present in the alloy, because Argentum (Latin for “silver”) is itself a soft metal. Copper, in turn, reacts to compounds containing sulfur, as a result of which the jewelry begins to oxidize and darken. But it often happens that a person wears jewelry for a relatively short time, but it has already become covered with a dark coating. Why silver on the body darkens is a question that may bother many owners of products made from this metal. The blackening of silver is affected by:

Stressful situations. The fact is that experiences enhance the work of the sweat glands, and with heavy sweating, an increase in the concentration of sulfates is observed. These are sulfuric acid salts that enter into a chemical reaction with the metal, which ultimately leads to blackening of the jewelry.
Physical activity. Exercise, like stress, leads to increased sweating. Therefore, if you forgot to take off your silver jewelry before training, then do not be surprised that it is covered with a dark coating.
Contacts with household chemicals and cosmetics. The abundance of components that can enter into a chemical reaction with the metal increases the likelihood of its darkening. Therefore, you need to remove all silver items before starting housework (cleaning and washing, cooking, etc.) and before starting hygiene procedures. It is also better to visit the sauna and swimming pool, massage therapist and cosmetologist without jewelry.
High humidity levels. This factor helps slow down the evaporation of sweat, resulting in the appearance of a large amount of sulfur salts on the skin, which trigger oxidation. Silver items can quickly lose their original shine and darken once you arrive in a humid climate. Since such accessories are susceptible to moisture, they must be removed before the pool, shower or sauna.

Watch yourself

If suddenly your damaged silver jewelry bothers you with the following symptoms:

Frequent colds
Fatigue
Headache
General ailments in the body, then you should give this importance and consult a doctor, and not specialists in getting rid of damage. Since this may indicate the presence of a disease in the body, either being in a state of constant stress, or the presence of a disease of excessive sweating, hyperhidrosis.

How to return silver to its previous appearance

If your silver items have darkened over time, then you should not immediately look for a replacement. The decoration can be restored to its former beauty. Of course, it is best to purchase special jewelry cleaning products that are sold in jewelry stores. But you can make do with improvised means. Popular ways to clean silver from tarnishing:

Regular lipstick. It contains titanium dioxide and a lot of fat, which clean the silver and give the jewelry a beautiful shine. It is enough to spread lipstick on the jewelry and rub it thoroughly. But keep in mind that this method is optimal only for smooth products that do not have inserts in the form of precious stones.
Toothpaste. This is another simple and affordable ingredient for brightening silver items. Its effectiveness is due to the fact that it contains abrasive microparticles that literally polish and remove patina. All you need to do is apply a little paste to your toothbrush (it should have soft bristles), polish the accessory and rinse it using cold water. Then gently wipe the product.
Soda. This is an inexpensive but very effective remedy for combating tarnish on silver, which can be found in every kitchen. The method of application is quite simple: boil water and dilute it with soda (50 g per liter), then lower the ring or other decoration into boiling water for 10-15 seconds, after wrapping it in foil. After this, all that remains is to rinse the product and dry it thoroughly.

Factors causing darkening

There are several reasons that answer the question why the silver chain on the neck turned black. One, as noted above, is associated with copper, which is part of the alloy of silver jewelry.

In addition, the higher the quality of the metal from which the product is made, the later it will begin to lose its luster and darken. Darkening on the chain occurs to a greater extent in those places where the metal comes into contact with human skin.

Another effect on silver on the neck is caused by excessively rough clothing, hydrogen sulfide in large quantities in the air and high humidity.

That is why it is necessary to ventilate the rooms in which silver is stored as often as possible, since stale air leads to the formation of hydrogen sulfide in it, which directly affects the oxidation processes of the metal.

People living in areas where there is a large concentration of various industrial facilities - heavy industry enterprises - should not wear silver items to work, since gases in the air and various harmful fumes from production can lead to darkening of the silver.

It is important for motorists to avoid contact of silver products with fuel oil and diesel fuel. In addition, when there is a large concentration of cars, particularly in densely populated cities and areas, they emit a lot of gases into the air resulting from the combustion of fuel, which contains sulfur, which oxidizes silver.

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When asked why silver turns black, medical workers answer with their own point of view, namely the possibility that a person may have certain diseases. In particular, disruptions in the endocrine system, liver and kidney problems.

The functioning of the thyroid gland is directly related to the hormonal processes occurring in the body.

This especially applies to pregnant women. Changes in hormonal levels during pregnancy lead to the fact that almost all expectant mothers notice darkening of the silver on their necks.

A sudden darkening of a silver chain may be a consequence of the gradual destruction of the rhodium film if the product was covered with it. In the case when the product turns black very quickly, we can talk about low quality silver used for its manufacture.

Superstitious people associate blackened metal with damage to a person. Witches and healers were convinced that silver took the entire blow, thereby protecting its owner. Therefore, as soon as a person noticed the darkening of silver, he had to turn to magicians to remove the damage.

Today we can say with 100% certainty that the mystical darkening of silver is just a figment of fantasy and great imagination.

Important! The higher and better the quality of the metal, the greater its anti-corrosion properties. For example, 925 grade metal will not turn black under any circumstances. While 875 silver loses its shine under the slightest unfavorable conditions.

Storage and care rules

To prevent silver jewelry from darkening for a long time, adhere to the following recommendations for storing it:

For storage, use velvet bags, cases or boxes - it is better to place them separately so that they do not scratch each other. As a last resort, you can use a plastic bag.
Do not use paper or cardboard packaging, or bags made of viscose silk to store silver accessories. They contain sulfur, which can accelerate the process of blackening of the metal.
The optimal storage location is a dry and cool place that is located away from light and heat sources.

In addition, it is necessary to properly care for your jewelry, in particular, regularly clean and polish it. Also remember to take them off before swimming, cleaning the house or playing sports. To prevent silver from darkening for a long time, jewelers recommend coating accessories with rhodium – it will help protect the metal and help it remain shiny for a long time.

Prevention

To summarize, we can highlight several points, the observance of which will make the life of the owner of precious metal easier and will extend the life of the silver itself:

It is necessary to wipe the chain with flannel after removing it.
You should not leave your jewelry on while playing sports, as sweat greatly oxidizes silver.
You should not take baths or go to the pool with a chain around your neck, because wet rooms create a favorable environment for oxidation.
Monitor the composition of your cosmetics, as sulfur also affects how quickly the chain turns black, or wear it after applying makeup.
To keep a new chain in its original condition for a longer period, when purchasing, apply a layer of colorless varnish to it.
Don’t wait for the silver to turn black; give it preventative cleaning once every two months. Don’t wait for the silver to turn black; carry out preventative cleaning once a month. This will be quite enough.
It is best to store the chain in a box, which is covered with fabric on the inside.
When traveling to the sea, take off your silver, because sea water is an even more aggressive environment than fresh water.

Where to buy silver products in Moscow

You can find a wide range of silver products in different price categories in the jewelry stores of the Golden Gross shopping center, the number of which currently exceeds a hundred. Among the jewelry presented in their showcases you will find rings and earrings with and without inserts, necklaces, bracelets, chains, pendants and much more. We approach the selection of each partner with special care and therefore we give our own guarantee for each product that you buy in the showrooms of the jewelry center.

You can try on any accessories that you spot in the YuC stores right on the spot. This way you can immediately understand how suitable this or that model is for you. If necessary, contact the salon managers for help. These are polite and responsive employees who will answer your questions, advise and select products taking into account your requests. In addition, sales and promotions are regularly held in the jewelry stores of our shopping center, during which discounts can reach 40-50%.

Why does the silver chain on the body darken?

Silver changes color to a darker color quickly. This can even happen the day after the previous cleaning. To prevent jewelry restoration from becoming a daily chore, the causes of the phenomenon of Ag blackening should be eliminated. This happens due to interaction with chemicals. However, in its pure form, silver darkens much more slowly.

Blackening is a consequence of the use of a ligature.

On the one hand, additives in the form of other metals (precious and non-precious) improve the properties of silver products, and on the other hand, they accelerate the formation of blackness. In addition, other reasons for this phenomenon are noted.

How to quickly clean a silver chain using home methods

The choice of folk methods for cleaning silver is very extensive. We have selected several of the most effective means that can be used to clean a silver chain. But be careful when cleaning silver items at home. Observe the proportions and exposure time, and, of course, safety precautions.

Paste GOI

Professional product. It must be handled very carefully, otherwise there is a chance of doing more harm to the product than helping.

GOI paste comes in three grades - coarse, medium and fine. The thin type of GOI is divided into two more options. Everyone has their own “area of responsibility”.

Coarse GOI paste helps remove severe dirt and minor scratches, but at the same time “erases” the surface, making it matte. It contains the highest amount of abrasive substances (75-85%).
GOI medium paste - effectively removes blackness, restoring the product’s former shine. Abrasive substances contain about 70-80%.
Thin paste GOI 1 and 2 types - the second type of thin paste slightly cleans off dark deposits and adds shine to jewelry. The first type of paste is used for polishing and obtaining a mirror shine.

When using GOI paste as a silver cleaner, carefully read the instructions and follow them. Do not forget about safety precautions, wear glasses and a mask when working with paste, as it tends to generate dust.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is an old method that has gained popularity among most housewives. An easy-to-follow and effective method of cleaning silver from blackness using toothpaste is an ideal solution for those who want to return the former shine to their favorite chain.

You will need some homogeneous toothpaste, that is, without abrasive particles, a soft toothbrush and a lint-free cloth. Apply a small amount of paste to the chain with a brush and massage thoroughly. Then rinse with water and wipe dry with a lint-free cloth.

Ammonia

If you can stand the smell of ammonia, try this method.

1 teaspoon of ammonia;
0.5 liters of plain water;
Flannel napkin;
30 minutes time.

Prepare all this, mix the liquids and dip the silver item into the resulting solution. Leave for half an hour and then rinse well. Polish the items using a flannel cloth.

If pollution is not alarming because of its scale, then this method can be simplified. Just lightly wet a cloth in ammonia and rub it over the decoration. The result is a shiny silver jewelry.

Powdered chalk

Surprisingly, crushed chalk is one of the working ways to clean a silver chain. There will be only one task - to crush the chalk well. The smaller it is, the better.

Mix the resulting powder with a small amount of water until a mushy substance forms.
Spread the mixture of crushed chalk in a thick layer evenly over the silver chain.
Take the chain in one hand and cover it with the other. Rub the chain with your hands.
Wash off the chalk particles with strong water pressure.

If the dirt is heavy, try using a brush with thin bristles.

Olive oil

Olive oil effectively removes whitish deposits and light stains on jewelry. To achieve the best result, you need to take unrefined olive oil with its inherent greenish tint. It effectively removes accumulated dust and dirt.

Soak a soft cloth in olive oil and wipe the chain with it. Afterwards, rinse first in soapy water, then in running water. And only then wipe it well with a dry cloth.

Baking soda and lemon juice

Baking soda and lemon juice is an old-fashioned method for cleaning a silver chain. The recipe is simple.

Make a “soda slurry.” To do this, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a thick substance.
Rub the resulting paste onto the silver item.
Rinse thoroughly under strong water pressure.
Polish until shiny with a flannel cloth.

Lemon juice also helps with blackness and thick plaque. You simply need to dip the silver chain in lemon juice and leave for 15-20 minutes. Glitter and shine are guaranteed.

Vinegar

Another great method to return your favorite jewelry to its original appearance. The algorithm of actions is simple:

Silver is placed in a solution of acetic acid (6-9%) for 60-90 minutes;
Then rinse in running water;
And then polished with flannel.

For greater effect, you can add baking soda to the vinegar (2-3 tablespoons per 0.5 cup of vinegar).

But watch the time carefully; you cannot leave jewelry in acidic solutions for more than 2 hours.

Foil

Also an effective way to remove black deposits from silver chains. You will need:

Foil;
Small container for boiling;
Baking soda - 2 teaspoons.

Place foil on the bottom of the pan and place silver chains on top. Pour all this with soda solution (2 tbsp per 1 liter of water). After boiling for 5 minutes, leave the product in the water for another 10-15 minutes. Only then take it out, rinse and wipe with a cloth to add shine.

Potato

An old folk method for cleaning silver objects is using potatoes.

Finely grate the raw potatoes and mix them with a little water to form a thick paste. Place the silver there and leave for 15 minutes. Afterwards, wipe well with a flannel cloth. There is no need to rinse with water.

You can also use potato broth to clean blackened chains. Place foil on the bottom of a small saucepan and place a silver decoration on it. Pour potato broth over everything and boil for 10 minutes. Then rinse with water and wipe with a dry cloth.

Salt

Saline solution is not suitable for all types of jewelry. For example, for products with stones it is better not to use it in order to avoid the appearance of a whitish coating. For simple, laconic chains, this method is quite suitable.

All you need to do is make a saline solution. For a glass of water 1 tbsp. l salt. An important clarification: first you need to boil the water and then add salt to it. Only after this, place the silver chain in the solution and leave until the water cools completely.

Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe with a cloth.

Washing powder

Washing powder also needs to be chosen carefully. Often modern powders contain many abrasive particles that can damage the surface of your favorite jewelry. And then no cleaning method will return it to its former appearance. Therefore, we never use dry washing powder.

At best, you can make a paste from the powder - add a little water, and apply it to the jewelry, gently massaging it with your fingers. Or you can prepare a powder solution - add a small amount of washing powder to warm water, stir until foam forms. Then put the silver in there and leave for 30-60 minutes. But this method is suitable for removing a light coating of blackness and is unlikely to cope with stubborn dirt.

Universal recipe for cleaning silver

When the first attempt fails to cope with the darkened product, you can use a more complex mixture. It helps to cope with both single stains and complete discoloration of the silver thread.

To prepare the miracle mixture, prepare:

1 tablespoon table salt;
1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid;
the same amount of table soda;
1 liter of water.

All of the above must be thoroughly mixed in a metal (preferably aluminum) container. Then put the product there and boil over low heat for 30 minutes. After this simple procedure, your silver chain will look like new.

Gold plated silver chains

With gold-plated chains, the cleaning methods will be similar, but not all will be the same. For example, ammonia and soap solution are good for removing dark plaque from gold-plated items. But using products with abrasive particles, even the smallest ones, is not recommended. The gold layer in such jewelry is very thin, and therefore it is very easy to damage it. You need to handle such products very carefully and regularly wash them in soapy water or wipe them with a cloth soaked in ammonia. It is also important to polish with a felt cloth or flannel.

Question-answer section

How to clean dirt from a silver chain at home?

Expert opinion

Pribrezhny Gennady Valentinovich

Jeweler 6th category

You can clean silver in different ways: using soda, vinegar, ammonia, etc. Any of the options will provide a good option. When choosing a suitable recipe, you should take into account the characteristics of the product: the presence of organic or artificial inserts, the type of coating (rhodium plating). Such jewelry does not tolerate abrasive agents or aggressive solutions.

How to add shine to a silver chain at home?

Expert opinion

Grishanov Mikhail Petrovich

Jeweler, director of the Grishanov and Co. workshop

The best remedy that will help give shine to jewelry that has been cleared of blackness is ammonia. It is enough to hold the chain in the solution for 10-20 minutes. This product differs from others by the manifestation of both whitening and cleansing properties. As a result, no dirt remains on the jewelry and its shine returns.

Silver is a noble metal, like gold it is low-reactive

... that is, it does not tend to react with other substances, including oxidation. It is a common misconception that silver turns black when exposed to air; it is not in danger of corrosion. However, everyone can observe that unkempt silver, when worn, greatly changes its appearance and not for the better. The culprit is sulfur from sweat, air and other sources.

Even a small amount of sulfur forms silver sulfide on the surface of jewelry. It is because of this that silver jewelry first stops shining, then turns yellow, turns brown, and turns black almost completely. How quickly silver blackens depends on the composition of the air - the dirtier it is, the faster the silver blackens. In addition to sulfur, silver reacts with copper, its presence next to the chain will also deprive it of its shine.

Attention! Some people believe that blackening of silver is a sign of a low-quality product. On the contrary, such reactions are characteristic of silver, and its further appearance depends on care.

Things to remember before cleaning your jewelry

Cleaning a chain to give it its original appearance is more difficult than caring for rings or earrings. Such jewelry consists of many elements. Dirt accumulates between the chain links, which is difficult to remove because there are not enough tools to reach hard-to-reach areas. Rules that must be followed to clean a silver chain from blackness to shine:

remove the pendants, disassemble the product if possible;
Soak the jewelry in a soap solution, then cleaning will be easier, since most of the dirt will come off the metal surface.

Why does silver darken?

According to statistics, silver jewelry darkens after six months of wear.
If your chain has changed color before, this indicates poor quality of the product. After all, all factory chains are treated with a special solution (rhodium film). The main reasons for darkening of metal include:

natural wear and tear of the protective rhodium film, after which the silver is exposed to “attacks” from the environment;
severe sweating in the neck area, containing acids - they affect the color of silver;
incorrect functioning of the kidneys or liver - there are more toxins in the body, which change the shade of the jewelry;
the impact of sulfur-containing substances on jewelry - the chain can darken even when it is lying in the closet.

About 50% of the Russian population attaches magical significance to silver. In this light, the darkening of the chain speaks of the evil eye or damage caused by an ill-wisher.