EDUCATION CENTER

Why Does Sterling Silver Turn My Finger Green or Black? – The Real Answer!

Why Does Sterling Silver Turn My Finger Green?

Sterling silver is a popular material used in making jewelry due to its durability, luster, and affordability.

Some people however may notice their skin turning green and this can be a frustrating experience and may even discourage them from wearing their favorite jewelry piece.

➡️ So, why does sterling silver turn my finger green or black?
✅ The answer lies in the composition of the metal and the reaction it has with your skin.

In this article, we will explore the science behind this phenomenon and provide tips on how to prevent it.

The Real Reasons Silver is Turning Your Finger Green

▪️Small Percentage of Copper

Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually a small percentage of that is copper to add a pleasing warm luster to the silver. Over time, it is possible for copper to react with moisture, oils, and acids produced by your skin to form copper salts, which can then leave a green or black mark on your finger.

▪️Your Skin Acidity

The pH level of your skin is crucial in determining how reactive sterling silver will be. For most people, skin pH is balanced and has little effect on the silver. However, if your skin is slightly more acidic, it can cause oxidation of the copper ions in the silver.

Skin pH can fluctuate due to various factors such as soaps, moisturizers, cleaning products, as well as medicine, diet, sleep, and environmental conditions. As a result, a ring that you’ve worn for years without issue might suddenly cause problems, and vice versa.

There are numerous articles and products available that can help you understand and balance your skin’s pH, which is essential for overall health. A quick search on this topic will yield many useful resources.

▪️Natural Sweat and Moisture

When you sweat, that moisture can be held in place between the shank of the ring and the finger which can then react with the copper and cause it to oxidize faster. The moisture build up can be exacerbated by several factors such as, wearing your sterling silver jewelry in humid environments, in the pool or hot tub or even while doing physical activities that may cause you to sweat.

▪️Allergic Reactions

In some cases, the discoloration could be an allergic reaction to one of the metals in the alloy. This is less common, but it’s still a possibility, especially if you have sensitive skin, in this case you will usually feel itchy, irritated skin and may or may not have discoloration.

Just keep in mind that not everyone will have these issue’s, and they may also come and go – it all depends on your skin chemistry.

Recommended Tips for your Skin & Silver!

▪️Take Off Your Jewelry Before Getting Wet

Water and sweat can speed up the oxidation process, so it’s best to remove your jewelry before you shower.

▪️Beware of Chemicals

A range of external chemicals can influence skin pH and contribute to silver discoloration. These include moisturizers, chlorine from hot tubs and swimming pools, and cleaning detergents, among others.

▪️Clean Your Jewelry Regularly

Dirt, oils, and other grime can build up on your jewelry and make it more likely to cause green or black fingers. Clean your jewelry regularly with a soft cloth or jewelry cleaning solution.

▪️Apply Clear Nail Polish

In extreme cases, painting a thin layer of clear nail polish on the inside of your ring can create a barrier between your skin and the metal. This will slow down the oxidation process and keep your fingers green or black-free.

▪️Switch Out Your Rings

If you have this issue, wearing the same ring every day can put your skin in contact with the same metals for prolonged periods of time, so try switching around your pieces and cleaning your finger and interior shank of each ring before wearing them.

My Finger Turned Green! What to do?

If you’ve ever noticed green or black discoloration on your fingers after wearing sterling silver jewelry, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to address the issue.

➡️ First, take off the jewelry that’s causing the problem. Then, wash your fingers with soap and warm water to remove any residue.

If there is any irritation, applying a gentle lotion or aloe vera gel can help soothe it.

Even in the worst cases, the green or black discoloration will fade on its own within a few days.

To Sum It All Up!

Green or black fingers may be a common occurrence for some people, but they are harmless and can be easily prevented with proper care and maintenance.

Don’t let the occasional green tint discourage you from wearing your favorite sterling silver rings.

➡️ By following the tips and tricks outlined earlier, such as washing your fingers, applying a pH neutral lotion, and cleaning your jewelry regularly, you can enjoy all the benefits of wearing 925 sterling silver without worrying about any discoloration.

➡️ Remember, having black or green fingers doesn’t mean your rings are cheap or low-quality – it’s just a part of wearing this beautiful metal.

So keep rocking those rings and don’t let black or green fingers cramp your style!