About Tarnish
Over time, exposure to moisture and air can cause a dark coating called tarnish to form on the surface of silver, copper and brass. Some people like the coating and believe it gives the metal, especially brass, character, but others want the original color and shine back. Removing tarnish should be done carefully to avoid damaging the metal. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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Tarnish is a layer of corrosion that forms over some metals when they undergo a chemical reaction, usually oxidation. The chemical reaction takes place between metals such as silver, copper, brass, and aluminum, and chemicals in the air such as sulfur. This reaction causes a film or coating to form on the metal.
Prevention/Solution
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The best way to prevent metal from tarnishing is to prevent oxygen, humidity and sulfide gases from coming in contact with the metal. Store metals in a dry cabinet as far from air as possible, or coat with a lacquer or spray that prevents air and moisture from contacting the metal. Test sprays in an inconspicuous area first to be sure they don't dull the metal surface. Anti-tarnish strips can be placed with silver or you can store your silver in acid-free plastic bags with the air removed.
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Effect
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When metal objects tarnish, they become covered with a dark gray or black oxidized coating. Many products are designed to remove tarnish from metal, including a nonabrasive, nonacid paste called Flitz, fine steel wool, emery paper, Barkeeper's Friend, Brasso, Twinkle, or Copper Glo, found in grocery stores. Jeweler's rouge, available at jeweler supply stores or hobby shops, removes tarnish and is cheaper than regular polish.
Remedies
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There are many chemical-free ways to remove tarnish. Boil a kettle of water. Line the bottom of a pan with aluminum foil. Place tarnished metal in the pan so it touches the foil. Cover the metal with the boiling water and add a tablespoon of baking soda. When the tarnish is gone, rinse and dry the metal. You can also apply a paste of flour, salt, and vinegar to tarnished metal and let it set for an hour. Rinse the paste off with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
Considerations
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Many items in your kitchen can be used to remove tarnish from metal. Soaking metal in Coca Cola for 2 days fades and loosens tarnish. Lactic acid is a good tarnish remover: soak metal in 2 cups of milk mixed with 2 cups of warm water. Mix a cup of lemon juice with 3 tablespoons of cream of tarter and 5 drops of orange oil to form a paste. Gently rub the paste into the metal, let it dry, then remove with warm water and dry with a soft cloth. Rub a thin coating of olive oil into the metal with a soft cloth using a circular motion to prevent more tarnish from forming.
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