Hello,

I'm trying to oxidize sterling silver to black (not just a light patina), which solution would you recommend?  I used liver of sulfur (both the dry and liquid forms), but I'm beginning to suspect that it isn't suitable because after a while, the oxidized coating begins to chip off.

 Is there a way to oxidize silver to a very very dark black?  If so, which solution?  And how do you finish the silver piece after you oxidize it?  I've heard of dipping the piece in a solution of cold water + baking soda.  Is that correct, or is there a better way?

 Thanks in advance!!  I always learn so much from this very knowledgeable forum.

 

Hi! You might want to consider using Rio Grande's "Black Max" oxdizer.  I have used it on brass, bronze, & copper and it yields an intense, opaque black finish. I haven't used it on silver, as I prefer liver of sulfur, but I think it would work.  Also, if you're using liver of sulfur, you might want to heat up your piece, until it's warm, & dip it in your solution to accelerate the coloring.

As for finishing, rinse the piece in soapy water with diluted baking soda to remove any liver of sulfur residue that may continue to develop. With Black Max, I've only covered it with a layer of wax, after it had dried, so it wouldn't rub off.

I hope this is of help to you.

Peggy

  Normal 0 Black Max is right. But the liver of Sulfur process is specific in its step-by-step patinaing of the surface of silver. It's a slow process to build up the black, I don't have the patience for it.

You could try a hard boiled egg as well.