How to Dye Light Silver

Dye silver using egg yolk to create an antique or aged look.

Sterling silver is bright and shiny once it is polished. Over time, a patina appears on the outside, causing the silver color to dull and become black. This is caused by an oxidation of the silver with air. A chemical, known as Liver of Sulfur, darkens the surface of the silver and makes it look antique. The chemical is toxic in either its liquid or paste format. An alternative is dying the silver with a natural patina using egg yolks.

Things You'll Need

• Egg
• Plastic bag with seal
• Ammonia
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Craft sticks
• Liquid soap
• Warm water
• Glass bowl
• Silver
• Rubber or latex gloves
• Toothbrush
• Baking soda

Instructions

1. Crack and separate the egg. Place the yolk in a sealable plastic bag. Break the yolk and mix.

2. Pour 1 cup water, 1 tsp. ammonia and 1 tsp. of liquid dish soap in a glass dish. Mix the solution with a wooden craft stick. This creates a washing solution for the silver.

3. Put on the rubber or latex gloves. Place the silver piece in the washing solution. Scrub the surface of the silver with a toothbrush making sure to get the front, back and any crevasses. It's important to wear the rubber or latex gloves to keep any skin oil from the surface of the cleaned silver. All grime, oil and finger oil may leave visible marks on the silver once it is dyed.

4. Immediately place the sterling silver item in the egg yolk. Seal the container. Place the bag on a flat surface where the sterling is visible. Check after 10 minutes and notice the silver starting to change color. Keep the sterling in the bag until the desired color is reached. This may take up to 10 hours.

5. Remove the sterling silver from the egg yolk after the desired color is reached. Place the silver item under a stream of warm water to remove all egg yolk.

6. Immediately place the silver item in a solution of 1 cup water and 1/4 cup baking soda. Allow the item to bathe in the solution for 10 to 15 minutes. This is a neutralizing solution that will stop the reaction between the silver and the egg yolk and keep the item the desired color.

References

• You Tube: Liver of Sulfur Patinas on Silver, Brass, Bronze and Copper with Cool Tools Patina Gel
• Jewelry Lessons: How to Make Your Own Patina on Sterling Silver