Understanding TarnishingUpdated 6 hours ago

The chemical name given to the tarnishing process is oxidation. Tarnishing is a thin layer of corrosion on metals, resulting from a reaction to moisture, air or chemical compounds with the metal in your jewellery. This will appear as a dark surface discolouration to your jewellery.

It is largely the result of hydrogen sulphide reacting with the metal, forming a sulphide. Other sulphur compounds will also attach themselves to the silver with the same result. All types of jewellery that aren’t 100% pure gold or 100% pure silver can tarnish.

This includes all fine jewellery crafted from solid 14k and 18k gold or sterling silver. While these precious metals are designed to endure, they may still develop tarnish over time if not cared for with proper love and attention.