Do Sterling Silver Rings Turn Your Finger Green?

If you're considering purchasing a sterling silver ring, you may be wondering if it will turn your finger green. While it is possible for sterling silver rings to cause discolouration on the skin, it is not a common occurrence and can usually be prevented with proper care and maintenance.

What Causes Sterling Silver Rings to Turn Green?

Sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. The presence of copper in the alloy is what can cause a reaction on the skin, resulting in a green discolouration. This reaction is called silver sulphide tarnish and occurs when the copper in the sterling silver comes into contact with substances like sulphur or hydrogen sulphide in the air or on the skin. The combination of these substances with the copper creates a chemical reaction that can cause the silver to tarnish and turn green.

How to Prevent Sterling Silver Rings from Turning Your Finger Green

There are a few steps you can take to prevent your sterling silver ring from turning your finger green:

  • Keep your sterling silver jewellery clean and dry. Regular cleaning and drying can help prevent tarnish and discolouration.
  • Avoid exposing your sterling silver jewellery to harsh chemicals or substances. These can cause tarnish and discolouration to occur more quickly.
  • Store your sterling silver jewellery in a dry, airtight container when not in use. This can help protect it from the elements and prevent tarnish.
  • Wear your sterling silver jewellery regularly. The oils in your skin can help prevent tarnish and discolouration from occurring.

Removing Tarnish from Sterling Silver Rings

If your sterling silver ring does happen to tarnish and turn your finger green, there are a few steps you can take to remove the tarnish and restore the shine to your ring:

  • Use a mild soap and water to clean the ring, then dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
  • Try using a commercial silver polish or a homemade paste made from baking soda and water to remove tarnish.
  • If the tarnish is particularly stubborn, you can try using a silver dip solution or taking the ring to a professional jeweller for cleaning.

Conclusion

While it is possible for sterling silver rings to turn your finger green, it is not a common occurrence and can usually be prevented with proper care and maintenance. By keeping your sterling silver jewellery clean and dry, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals or substances, storing it in a dry, airtight container, and wearing it regularly, you can help prevent tarnish and discolouration from occurring. If tarnish does occur, there are steps you can take to remove it and restore the shine to your ring.

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