Is there anyway to safely clean the “oxidation” for a bright, polished look?
Answer Hello Kelly, Thanks for this question about the oxidation or patina on the sterling ring. First of all, yes, oxidation finishes may be removed. Depending on the kind of finish used, the methods will vary a little. Here is a quick rundown of common methods used to put a dark patina on silver. OXIDIZED OR PATINA FINISH METHODS. Natural Oxidation. The old term oxidation refers to the natural darkening of silver, as see in silver tea sets and jewelry. Chemicals present cause darkening where the silver is stored or just in the air. Sulfur is a primary culprit, along with chlorine as in swimming pools. Brown paper bags are notorious for emitting just enough chemical (sulfur type) fumes to really age silver in a hurry. This kind of darkening is most easily removed with a good silver polishing cloth sometimes combined with a small soft brush and silver cleaner. Elbow grease is needed! Applied Oxidation Patinas. The old standby for chemical darkening of silver is a stuff called liver of
