Forwarded messageDate: Mon, 4 Nov 1996 18:06:53 -0500
From: Bob Jones jones@perigee.net
To: Orchid Digest service@ganoksin.com
Subject: discoloration on silver
I just recently cast a ring in sterling silver. Looks great, worked out
well. The only problem is that on the inside of the shank and a little bit
on the outside, I am getting some discoloration. Whatever is causing this
discoloration is also turning my skin green. I am thinking that I didn’t
get all of the copper oxides off the surface after casting (copper turns my
skin). I am able to wear sterling silver with no discoloration whatsoever.
I have heard that you can treat this problem with what is called a bright
dip solution. I contains phosphoric acid, which reduces the copper oxides
and other copper gunk to something that will flake off with a little bit of
abrasion. Does this stuff work? Where can I get it? Any warnings or
advice?
Marshall Jones
jones@perigee.net
I have heard that you can treat this problem with what is called a bright
dip solution.
If memory servers me correctly, Bright Dip is a lethal concoction
created from roughly equal portions of nitric, hydrochloric, and
sulphuric acids, and is used for dip polishing. (triple yeach!!!)
Phosphoric acid is used as a pickling solution (must be HOT) and is
preferable to the usual sudium bisulphate solutions for silicon bearing
alloys. It makes silver ultra white. Phosphoric acid is in Coca Cola
etc… You could order some through you local drug store, or better yet,
through a chemical supply company (like Van Waters and Rogers). It’s a
bit expensive ($20 a pint?) but it’ll work for you.
As I don’t use it, I can’t tell you the proper concentration, though
someone told me 50%, I’d personally try some very small tests to
deterimine it.
Hope this all helps…
I contains phosphoric acid, which reduces the copper oxides
and other copper gunk to something that will flake off with a little bit of
abrasion. Does this stuff work? Where can I get it? Any warnings or
advice?
Marshall Jones
jones@perigee.net
Jeffrey Everett
Handmade 18K, 22K, and platinum gemstone fine jewelry.
Diamond setting, rubber/metal molds, casting, lapidary
Die and mold engraving, plastic patterns for casting.
Cad jewelry design, cad/cam milling scroll filigree…
P O Box 2057 Fairfield IA 52556 515-469-6250
Yea! I’m sure it makes a terrific drink, especially at Holloween!! . .
No ice for me thanks!
Jim
At 07:31 AM 11/5/96 -0600, you wrote: