Why are strings not safeguarded from environmental influences?
Environmental factors and usage can lead to changes in the quality and color of the string’s surface, for example: Silver and silver-plated copper tend to react chemically with traces of sulfur in the air, resulting in a brownish discoloration of the string; Bringing aluminum into contact with other metals under humid conditions (whether caused by air humidity or perspiration) will cause an aluminum wound string to corrode. High humidity and condensation can tarnish various metals. This normally happens when the instrument is not stored under proper conditions and is subject to variations in temperature, high humidity, maritime climates or air pollution. Unfortunately it is not possible to manufacture strings which are safeguarded from these influences without sacrificing their tonal and playing qualities.
