Beads of Bali

Tarnish

Tarnish is the outcome of oxidation, which is largely the result of our modern, polluted air.  It has been written that tarnish was rare before the Industrial Revolution took hold, which resulted in the burning of fossil fuels.

Removing Tarnish

Tarnish can be removed through polishing, which actually removes some of the silver from your silver pieces, or by reversing the chemical process that resulted in the tarnish, thereby turning silver sulfide back into silver.  Most individuals simply buy a commercial tarnish remover.  These can usually be found in any chain drugstore.  There are many products out there.  Look for one that is non-toxic and free of ammonia, acids and abrasives.

Many tarnish removal tasks can be performed quickly with a polishing cloth. Click here to see the brand we like.

Tarnish Inhibitors

Tarnish inhibitors slow the process of inhibition typically by coating your sterling silver item with a polish  that reduces exposure of the alloy to block the oxidation process.

Encouraging Tarnish (Antiquing)

If you are going for an old, antiqued look you may want to encourage the oxidation process.  There are commercial oxidizers available for this purpose.  Perhaps the most well known is Griffith Silver Black Liquid Oxidizer, available at many online jewelry supply stores. (We do not carry this product at this time.)