A simple process that gives silver a more expressive character.

As you may have noticed by taking a look at my creations, I love oxidized silver jewelry. I find great elegance in that black – or, rather, dark gray – color that adds depth and character to each piece. The dark color of silver highlights the lines of many designs and enhances the tones of certain stones, which, being framed, stand out with more strength and beauty. Not all stones accept this patina: the more porous ones can be damaged or “dirty”, dulling their natural shine. Therefore, it is important to know when to apply it and in which designs, since there are pieces that directly ask for it. Sometimes, the change is simply spectacular.

Oxidized silver jewelry is created when sterling silver reacts with sulfur, forming a dark patina on the surface of the metal. Contrary to popular belief, sterling silver does not oxidize on contact with air, as it is a noble metal and does not react with oxygen. Darkening occurs when it comes into contact with sulfur-containing compounds present on our skin, in the environment or in everyday products such as perfumes and soaps.

With good care and storage – such as storing pieces separately – oxidized silver jewelry can retain its dark finish and continue to develop its unique appearance over time.

To enhance this natural oxidation process, chemical compounds such as potassium sulfide, also called liver of sulfur, are applied through a controlled reaction. In this way, the dark patina is obtained more quickly. At present, oxidizers for silver can be easily found, and their application is quite simple.

As this patina is formed only on the surface of the metal, it is protected with varnish or wax to preserve it for a longer period of time. Personally, I prefer wax: I like its texture and how it maintains the natural color of the patina itself.

With use, especially in the pieces that rub more against the skin, such as rings, the patina can change, revealing the natural tone of the silver and creating, as an alternative, an aged patina that is also very beautiful. On the other hand, in earrings, the patina tends to keep its dark color for much longer, since they suffer less wear.

With proper care and storage – such as keeping pieces separate from other jewelry – your oxidized silver jewelry will retain its darkened finish and continue to develop its distinctive look over time.