Why does silver turn yellow?

Silver is a heavy metal that is relatively well known to everyone. It is a relatively expensive metal. If silver turns yellow, it means that the silver has oxidized. Especially many people have some silver decorations in their homes. If oxidation occurs, it can be solved by certain methods, such as wiping. When wearing silver jewelry, you should also pay attention to some matters. Let’s learn about it.

Why does silver turn yellow?

Silver turns yellow because it oxidizes. Silver jewelry is very easy to oxidize. Under chemical action, pure silver will undergo oxidation reaction and turn yellow or black. However, these are actually only the situations on the surface of pure silver. The inside of pure silver is still the same as before, and not much oxidation reaction has occurred. Therefore, in daily life, try to reduce the contact between pure silver and water and keep the environment dry.

Solution to silver turning yellow:

As for silver that has turned yellow, you can take it to a jewelry store and use silver cleaning water to clean the yellowed areas of the sterling silver, but this will damage the quality of the sterling silver, so try to avoid using it. You can also simply use toothpaste or detergent and other household products containing acid and alkali to clean the yellowed areas of sterling silver at home. Clean it carefully and don't clean it too quickly. If it has oxidized and changed color, you can also use a soft-bristled brush dipped in toothpaste to scrub it, and then wipe it dry with cotton cloth after washing.

1. Wipe clean before putting away

If sterling silver jewelry is not worn for a long time, be sure to wipe it clean with a soft cloth to prevent sweat from remaining on the jewelry and causing corrosion, and then put it in a sealed bag or packaging box to isolate the air and prevent the silver jewelry from oxidizing and turning yellow or black.

2. Don’t touch these things

Never wear sterling silver jewelry when you are soaking in a hot spring or playing in the water at the beach. Also avoid contact with chemical solutions, otherwise a chemical reaction will occur and your sterling silver jewelry will turn black.

3. Restore bright color

You can use a silver-polishing cloth to wipe the smooth surface, carved or irregular surface of silver jewelry. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a little toothpaste to gently scrub. Let the foam adhere to the silver jewelry for about one minute, then rinse it with clean water and wipe it dry with a soft cloth. You will find that your beloved silver jewelry has regained its bright original color.

4. Do not use silver cleaning water

Try not to use silver cleaning water to clean sterling silver jewelry, because it will corrode the surface of sterling silver. Although it will quickly restore its luster, it will also quickly turn yellow and black again. Moreover, every time you use silver cleaning water, it corrodes the silver jewelry again. For the sake of your beloved silver jewelry, you should take the time to use the silver cleaning cloth.