How to Oxidise Silver?  

There is a trend of contemporary jewellery designs and sculptures in blackened silver. Oxidized silver is the true sterling intentionally darkened through chemical processes where the surface colour 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 jewellery of white metal is sometimes purposefully oxidized to get a specific vintage look. This layer can be easily removed by using polish to get the shine.

The oxidized 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 colour.

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 colour can be formed anytime through an oxidized finish touch-up, or one can enquire with the local jewellers to find out about it.

Why do people buy blackened jewellery?

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 jewellery with an edgy look.

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

Plating vs Oxidized

Plating is the method that creates a layer of metallic items where the cover can respond to different purposes.

It can be used to restrict corrosion, increase wearability, and solderability, reinforce paint adhesion and reduce friction. 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

Jewellers use various methods like coating, silver/gold plating, black ruthenium, rhodium and ion plating, which can be used to get surface finishing that is harder and more durable.

E-coating is 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 jewellery.

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

Rhodium can increase the bright colours of crystals in Zirconium stones.

One can enhance the appearance and longevity of certain items by using them as it gives them a deep grey colour. 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 rose gold plating which contains rose gold 75 per cent and the rest copper. This can be used to make 18-karat gold items.