How to Oxidize Silver With Acid

Age your silver in a few hours.

You can oxidize (antique) your silver with acid in just a few hours. Your silver will have the aged look that is stunning and you can feel good that you did it yourself. The process takes a while but the end results are worth it.

Things You'll Need

• Hydrochloric acid
• Long sleeve shirt
• Rubber gloves
• Safety goggles
• Steel wool 0000
• Water
• Paper towels
• Glass containers
• Paint brush
• Steel brush
• Polishing flannel

Instructions

1. Wear a long sleeve shirt. Put on rubber gloves and safety goggles.

2. Pour a few drops of hydrochloric acid into a glass container. Add the same amount of drops of water to the container.

3. Use a paintbrush to brush on the mixture. Store or discard the rest of the solution when finished. Rinse the silver with a quart of water. Use a paper towel to dry the silver.

4. Use some steel wool to brush away any excess mixture left. Remove any steel wool that may get caught in the cracks of the silver with a steel brush.

5. Rinse with water again and dry with paper towels. Polish the silver with a flannel.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use caution when using hydrochloric acid! Always use the acid in a well ventilated area with proper protection.

References

• Eni Oken's Jewelry: How to Oxidize (Antique) Silver