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Discoloration





Why does this ring or chain change color (turn my fingers/neck black or Green )?


Any discoloration is chemical... either from you, the ring, or something you have come in contact. Basically it is almost guaranteed to be a 'chemical ' problem. The metal is reacting to something, either an outside chemical or one from the persons body. Every persons body chemicals are different and certain combinations of materials react with one another. It is not a simple cut and dried explanation, but some of the reasons are listed below but in no particular order

Reasons
-Lower karat golds, ( 9k , 10k ), have more copper alloy.
-After potato chips, Doritos, and other products with lots of salt and preservatives it could be a chemical reaction from the body eliminating these wastes. Perhaps a mild nitric acid is being produced by the body.
-A trace of polishing compound is still present. Wash with hot water and dish soap.
-Sterling silver not only reacts differently on different individuals, it can react differently at different times on the same individual, depending on their body chemistry at the time.
-Some people react after having Italian food, or more specifically garlic and other spices.
-Some prescription drugs change the body chemistry and may react with metals.
-Chlorine should always be avoided ! ( swimming pools ).
-The jeweler will quench in a pickle after soldering the piece. This can lead to entrapment of acid within the metal which is not removed by water or even an alkaline bath., but can leach out after it is worn. Inside buffing is required.

Solutions
-Make sure the ring is cleaned with hot water and dish soap.
-Ask your local jeweler to buff and clean the inside of the ring.
-Coat the inside of the ring with clear nail polish, ( lacquer).
-Never wear your jewelry when using chemicals, (chlorine, paint thinners and solvents, cleaning liquids, bleach etc…)
use a bi-metal lining on rings with a high karat gold on the inner surface.
-And if worse comes to worse realize that metals and acids react and "such is the nature of silver and gold".