There are some people who do not wear silver rings or silver jewelry because of the fear that their skin might turn green. Let's find out how this phenomenon occurs.
The Dazzling Metal
Sterling silver is an alloy that is made from the combination of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. As pure silver is a soft, malleable and lustrous metal, it breaks up and tarnishes very easily. Therefore, to make silver jewelry, instead of using silver, a mix is used so as to make it strong and flexible. It is recommended that one must check the stamp on the sterling jewelry before buying it to ensure that the the metal is the correct mix that allows it to be called "sterling".
Wearing silver rings or other silver jewelry is a good option as it is affordable and attractive. But, sometimes the silver tarnishes very quickly. For preserving the look of silver jewelry, a gentle detergent and water should be used for washing.
Side-effects of sterling silver
Sometimes people don't understand why after wearing certain jewelry, their skin starts to turn green. They think that it is due to some allergy. But, the fact is that the change of skin color is due to the reaction which takes place between the metal like sterling in the jewelry and the skin. It is caused when the skin comes in contact with the jewelry. As sterling silver is obtained from metals like copper and silver, copper is the main cause that reacts and turns skin color green. The skin can be harmed even with a small amount of copper.
Moreover, this takes place often when the sterling silver jewelry gets in touch with the reactive gases in the atmosphere. The soluble copper makes the skin turn green.
Methods to prevent green blemishes
These green blemishes can be removed if they are washed by using a mild soap. Here are some of the easiest methods to say goodbye to the skin problem due to sterling:
As gold and platinum are pure metals, it is advisable that they should be used although they are costly than silver.
A defensive covering can also be coated on the sterling silver that saves it from leaving any green mark on the skin.
Do not wear jewelry when the skin is wet.
The jewelry can be covered with clear nail polish insulate it from the skin.
Pros and cons of silver jewelry
Wearing silver has become a fashion these days. Women are demanding silver jewelry like silver chains, silver rings and silver earrings to enhance their style. Also, as it is affordable, it is admired by people of all ages. But, sterling has both its pros and cons. The negative points of using sterilized silver jewelry include tarnishing of the jewelry items and adverse effects on the skin. So, it is recommended that one should use the sterling silver according to one's skin type. More sensitive skin can turn green more easily.