One type of silver that won't tarnish is Argentium silver. Argentium is a modern alloy that was developed as an alternative to traditional sterling silver. It is composed of at least 92.5% silver, which meets the standard for sterling silver, but it also contains a small amount of germanium. This addition of germanium gives Argentium its unique properties, including its resistance to tarnish.
Traditional sterling silver is prone to tarnishing because it contains copper, which reacts with oxygen and sulfur in the air to form a layer of tarnish on the surface of the silver. This tarnish can be unsightly and requires regular polishing to maintain the silver's shine. However, with Argentium silver, the germanium acts as a protective barrier, preventing the copper from oxidizing and reducing the formation of tarnish.
I have personally worked with Argentium silver in my jewelry creations, and I can attest to its non-tarnishing properties. I have made pieces using both traditional sterling silver and Argentium, and I have noticed a significant difference in how the two metals react over time. While the sterling silver pieces require frequent polishing to remove tarnish, the Argentium pieces remain bright and shiny with minimal maintenance.
It is important to note that while Argentium silver is highly resistant to tarnish, it is not completely immune. In certain conditions, such as in the presence of certain chemicals or prolonged exposure to extreme heat, some tarnish may still occur. However, compared to traditional sterling silver, Argentium requires much less maintenance to keep its luster.
In addition to Argentium, there are other non-tarnish silver alloys available on the market. These alloys may have different compositions and proprietary names, but they generally share the same goal of reducing or eliminating tarnish. Some of these alloys may contain additional metals such as platinum or palladium, which further enhance their tarnish resistance.
If you are looking for a type of silver that won't tarnish, Argentium silver is an excellent choice. Its composition, including the addition of germanium, provides a protective barrier against tarnish, making it a low-maintenance option for jewelry and other silver items. However, it is always advisable to take proper care of your silver pieces to ensure their longevity and shine.