If you're unsure about preventing sterling silver from causing your finger to turn green, we've got you covered. Discover the reasons behind it and learn how to avoid it right here!
After a busy day, you finally kick back in your comfy pants and take off your jewelry, but then you spot a green stain where your favorite ring was. No worries, though—it’s not an allergic reaction or anything serious, and you don’t have to throw your ring away!
Can sterling silver cause your finger to turn green?
Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% silver, the other 7.5% is a combination of other metals. The green tint on your finger from sterling silver results from a chemical reaction between the metal and your skin, often due to the presence of copper. This reaction occurs as copper interacts with the pH levels of your skin, leading to the green discoloration where the metal touches your skin.
Furthermore, consider the hand cream located beside your bed-certain chemicals within these creams can also trigger metal oxidation, even if your skin isn't typically sensitive.
Keep scrolling for tips on how to stop your ring from turning your finger green.
Keep Your Hands Dry
One straightforward remedy is to remove your rings before activities like showering, handwashing, or swimming. While this may be easier said than done, it's a practical tip to remember.
Swimming is particularly significant to note, as the chlorine present in pool water can harm your jewelry.
Give It Clear Nail Polish Treatment
Just like duct tape is a versatile fixer, clear nail polish serves as a handy solution in the world of fashion. Apply it to the inside of your ring to create a barrier between silver and your skin. Keep in mind that this isn't a permanent solution; you'll need to reapply as necessary.
Pickle That Jewelry!
Indeed, you got it right, but hold off on raiding your refrigerator and consuming an entire jar of pickles just yet.
Instead, opt for a blend of water and ammonia, readily available at grocery stores. Prepare a 50/50 mixture of these two components and immerse your sterling silver ring in it for a full two days.
How To Get Rid Of Your Green Finger
As you glance down at your hand while reading through these recommendations, you might be wondering, "That's wonderful, but my finger is already green. How can I eliminate the discoloration of my skin?"
Initially, rest assured that this is not a permanent condition, so there's no need to fret about any lasting effects. In rare instances, failing to address the issue promptly could lead to a copper allergy.
Typically, your skin should return to its normal color within a few hours. If not, or if you simply can't bear the sight of the stain any longer, you can take steps to remove it yourself.
Begin by using warm water on a washcloth along with a few drops of liquid soap. Gently rub the cloth on your skin to eliminate the stain, then rinse your hands.
If this method proves ineffective, rubbing alcohol can be used as an alternative. Dampen a cotton ball by rubbing alcohol and applying it to remove any excess staining from your fingers.
Another issue could be the presence of green residue stuck inside your ring, known as verdigris. This substance can corrode your jewelry if left unattended.
A toothbrush is a safe way to tackle this, as its soft bristles won't harm your jewelry. For tiny spots, a toothpick can also be effective. Alternatively, a pencil eraser can work well for fresher stains.
For more stubborn stains, a mixture of white vinegar and water serves as a potent solvent. Soak your jewelry in this solution for thirty minutes, then scrub gently. Avoid using the white vinegar mix on pieces with foil backing or pearls.
After removing the green residue, consider using a metal polish to restore the shine to your piece.
This advice is relevant for all sterling silver jewelry pieces
These techniques aren't limited to rings; they can be applied to clean and prevent verdigris buildup on necklaces, bracelets, and other types of jewelry.
If all else fails, you might want to consider trying a different piece of jewelry. For rings that don't cause green discoloration, consider opting for rhodium-plated rings or those crafted from stainless steel and platinum. Explore Éclore Sterling Silver collection, all items are rhodium-plated!
Although these alternatives may come with a higher price tag than sterling silver, they offer the assurance that they won't turn your skin green, regardless of how frequently you wash your hands.
To ensure the longevity of your jewelry, it's advisable to clean your rings and other sterling silver pieces regularly and remember to remove them before exposing them to moisture.