
I’ve talked about imprints before, where there is a pattern in relief on the metal. This pattern may go unnoticed, unless you oxidise the piece to make the relief more visible.
Also with crochet or knitted metal work, the structure becomes more visible with oxidation.
The photos below show the difference between the natural light tone of the silver, and the effect of the patina when it has been oxidised.





Did you know that you don’t need any hazardous chemicals to oxidise silver? A boiled egg will do.
If you don’t believe me, watch this Hackaweek video (8 mins) that walks you through it, and also explains the chemistry behind this. You can also read these Tips on how to use boiled eggs for metal patination by The Beading Gem (the article is old, but well made).
If you have a piece of silver jewellery that you are tired of, perhaps you want to try this and see if it changes how you feel about it.

It changes the look of the piece! How fun about the egg!
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It really does change the look of a piece. So interesting. Weekends In Maine
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Yes, doesn’t it? It’s good to have different options.
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Amazing. I always think of the first soul who tried something like this. Did they try other foods, or elements, other techniques, and how did they arrive at eggs?
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Gotta live chemistry 🙂 is there a way to undo oxidation? To get back to the shiny silver colour?
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Yes, you can undo this with regular silver polishing methods, like a soft cloth or liquid made especially to remove patina and make silver shiny. With a cloth you might not be able to reach into all corners, it depends on the design. Also, if you oxidise a ring this way, it’s possible that the patina comes off while wearing it. On earrings or pendants, it’ll stay longer. I should test the difference some time…
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Now this is intriguing.
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It’s so easy to do, and it has also made me look differently at the value of eggs!
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Yes. me too. I think I did know that eggs can tarnish silver, and I am thinking of this in connection with cooking, but what or where I learned this and how it applies to anything I can’t remember. I guess life is just one big chemical reaction, we are always being reminded of this!
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