Sterling silver is a valuable steel alloy composed primarily of silver, sometimes 92.5% by weight, with the remaining 7.5% often consisting of copper. This alloy composition offers elevated sturdiness in comparison with pure silver, which is simply too tender for a lot of sensible functions, significantly in jewellery. The query of whether or not this materials discolors the pores and skin, particularly turning a finger inexperienced, is a typical concern amongst shoppers.
The phenomenon of pores and skin discoloration from jewellery arises because of chemical reactions between the steel and substances on the pores and skin, similar to sweat, lotions, or soaps. The added metals in sterling silver, particularly copper, are extra liable to oxidation than silver itself. Copper oxidation produces a inexperienced compound (copper carbonate), which may switch to the pores and skin. The extent to which this happens will depend on particular person physique chemistry, environmental elements, and the particular composition of the alloy.