[Jewelry making - Article 00623] - Re: [Orchid] Yellow Film on Argentium Sterling Silver

[Wayne Emery]

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>     I live on Long Island Sound and used to work near an open
>     window. I left my wire spool on the window ledge for a few days
>     (not thinking) and, after just a few days, it was badly tarnished.
>     Does this mean I was sold something other than.999? 

    Even Fine silver will tarnish, albeit rather slowly. Sterling
    tarnish is a combination of sulfides, mostly, while Fine is simple
    silver oxide, mostly. Gases in the air are the culprit. If you live
    in an area with a more acidic atmosphere (most industrialized area
    or cities), it will oxidize readily. The more moist the air, the
    more rapid the process. There is no such thing as tarnish-free
    silver or silver alloy, it's just a matter of degree. Simple
    chemistry. 

    Some have found that the gases emitted in a hot showcase from the
    glues in the fabrics and preservatives in the wood accelerate silver
    and silver alloy tarnishing. Production pieces are usually treated
    with one of a number of sealants or clear coatings, readily
    available from many places like Rio or Stuller.

Best to all,

Wayne Emery
The Gemcutter

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