I have often been asked about solving the problem of tarnishing silver- especially when it does not enhance the design! I have sometimes designed pieces which look better with some tarnish, as these sterling and tahitian pearl earrings demonstrate.
Everyones skin has different "chemistry:" some peoples skin cause metals to tarnish faster than others. This is because some of the compounds in a person's skin, when combined with exposure to the air (i.e. oxygen), increases the rate of Oxidation of the metal. Many metals such as silver and copper react to oxygen, and at an increased rate when water is present, even humidity and/or sweat. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver, and 7.5% copper, thus it is an excellent Oxidizer.
Tarnish removal: my favorite way to remove unwanted oxidation is with a product called "Tarn-X" which is available in most pharmacies or hardware stores, and comes in a black bottle of clear liquid which smells a lot like sulphur. Its the fastest and simplest way to remove tarnish. It does NOT clean the metal, if there are oils on the metal it might not remove tarnish in those areas. So, first clean the piece with warm soapy water and then dip it in this Tarn-X. Then RINSE THOROUGHLY. Also note: do not submerge pearls or porous stones such as lapis or malachite into this stuff.
Remember, its a natural process, and sometimes adds character and "antiquity" to your silver.
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