Silver turns black due to a chemical process called oxidation. This phenomenon is mainly caused by the reaction of silver with sulfur and other chemical compounds present in the environment. Here I explain in more detail why silver oxidation occurs:
Reaction with sulfur
Sulfur is one of the main culprits in silver oxidation. It is present in the air, especially in urban areas with greater air pollution. When silver comes into contact with sulfur, silver sulfide is formed, which is black or gray in color.
Humidity and oxygen
Moisture and oxygen also play an important role in the oxidation process. Silver reacts with oxygen in the air and humidity to form silver oxides. These compounds darken the surface of the silver.
Other contaminants
In addition to sulfur, other atmospheric and chemical pollutants present in the environment can contribute to the oxidation of silver. These can include nitrogen and carbon compounds, among others.
Contact with skin and chemicals
Silver in contact with the skin and chemicals such as perfumes, lotions and makeup can also suffer oxidation, since these products may contain substances that accelerate the process.
What to do to prevent silver from turning black:
- Keep your silver objects in a dry place and away from moisture. Some people choose to store silver in bags or cloth wraps that avoid direct contact with air.
- Clean your silver items regularly to remove any layer of sulfur or rust that may have formed. Gentle cleaning with baking soda, toothpaste, or specific silver cleaning products can be effective.
- Avoid direct contact of silver with chemicals such as perfumes, lotions or cleaning products that can accelerate oxidation.
- Prevention and regular maintenance are key to keeping your silver objects in good condition and preventing them from turning black.