How to Oxidise Silver?  

There is a trend of contemporary jewelry designs and sculpture in blackened silver. Oxidized silver is the true sterling which is intentionally darkened through chemical processes where the surface color is made from sulfides.

Oxidized refers to the tarnished look which is formed from sulphides. When the white metal is exposed to air containing a smaller amount of sulfur it forms a dark layer, which looks like blackened patches.

The jewelries of the white metal are, sometimes, purposefully oxidized to get the specific vintage look. This layer can be easily removed by using polish to get the shine.

The oxidised finish has a longer life span where the items come in minimal contact with the surroundings like earrings and necklaces. It can be applied to certain designs to create a unique version of the color.

It is advised not to use cleaning dips to remove the layer as it strips a layer of the metal, and in case, cleaning is necessary, it is advised to use mild detergents and a soft brush to rub on the surface.

The blackened color can be formed anytime through oxidized finish touch up or one can enquire with the local jewelers to find out about it.

Why people buy blackened jewelries?

The metals with the layer of oxidized sulphides do not reduce the value of silver uk. It can be cleaned anytime using mild cleansers. The process provides the jewelry with an edgy look.

It provides alternative dark colors to use. It gives the item a tarnished and old-fashioned look.

Plating vs. Oxidized

Plating is the method which creates a layer of the metallic item where the cover can respond to different types of purposes.

It can be used to restrict corrosion, increase wearability, solderability, reinforce paint adhesion and reduce frictions.On the other hand, oxidization provides a tarnished or discoloured effect where the products can get an aesthetic look.

Some items with engravings and certain holes can depict more readable letters.

Buying silver with other types of plating

There are various other methods used by jewelers like coating, silver/gold plating, black ruthenium, rhodium and ion plating, which can be used to get surface finishing that is harder and durable.

E-coating is electro coating based on the electrical current method for coating the surface with organic substances. It may create an ultra-fine transparent layer of plastic which increases the lifetime and shine of the jewelry.

Ruthenium gives the jewelry high tech grey look and the metal makes the surface hard and resistant to scratches.

Rhodiumcan be used for increasing the bright colors of crystals Zirconium stones.

One can enhance the appearance and longevity of certain items by using it as it gives it a deep grey color and the ion plating is one of the latest methods used for surface finishing, which enhances brightness that lasts for decades.

One of the unique layering methods is the rose gold plating which contains rose gold 75 percent and the rest copper. This can be used to make 18 karat gold items.