The discoloration of pores and skin, usually manifesting as a greenish hue, after contact with sure forms of jewellery is a standard prevalence. This phenomenon, whereas generally attributed to silver, is often linked to the presence of different metals within the alloy, significantly copper. Sterling silver, by definition, accommodates 92.5% silver and seven.5% of different metals, normally copper. Copper’s presence is the first issue contributing to this discoloration, because it reacts with perspiration and different substances on the pores and skin.
Understanding the reason for pores and skin discoloration is important for customers and jewellery producers alike. The tarnishing of knickknack, together with sterling silver, happens on account of chemical reactions with environmental parts. Components equivalent to humidity, publicity to chemical substances in lotions or cleansing merchandise, and particular person physique chemistry can speed up this course of. Whereas silver itself is comparatively inert, the copper part in sterling silver readily oxidizes, forming copper oxides. These oxides are inexperienced and may switch to the pores and skin upon contact, leading to seen staining.
