Why does Silver Tarnish?

Why does Silver Tarnish? 

As the copper alloy present in Sterling Silver reacts with oxygen and moisture in the air, it forms the compound silver sulfide, commonly referred to as silver tarnish, an inevitable characteristic of Sterling Silver. 

It appears as a grayish/brownish discoloration on the surface of the metal; it can also make the metal appear dull, and is caused by the copper in the metal undergoing a process known as oxidation. 

Certain preventative measures however are very effective in reducing the appearance of tarnish or in slowing down the process all together.