As a subject matter expert in the field of precious metals and their properties, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer regarding the type of silver that does not tarnish. Tarnishing is a natural process that occurs when silver reacts with sulfur and oxygen in the air, leading to the formation of silver sulfide, which gives the silver a dark, dull appearance. However, there are certain types of silver and methods to minimize or prevent tarnishing.

Sterling Silver: This is the most common type of silver used in jewelry, consisting of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The presence of copper is what causes sterling silver to tarnish over time. Despite this, sterling silver is popular due to its durability and workability.

Argentium Silver: A patented alloy that is gaining popularity is Argentium silver. It contains a higher percentage of silver (92.5% to 93.5%) and has a small amount of germanium or other elements instead of copper. The germanium acts as a catalyst to create a dense layer of silver chloride on the surface when the silver is heated, which is more resistant to tarnishing than the layer formed on traditional sterling silver.

Silver Plating: Another method to protect silver from tarnishing is through silver plating. This involves coating a core metal, often a base metal like copper or nickel, with a thin layer of silver. While the silver layer itself can still tarnish, it is often protected by a layer of lacquer or another clear coating that prevents exposure to the elements.

Silver-Clad: This term refers to a product that is made by bonding a layer of silver to another metal. The silver layer can be quite thin, and while it provides the appearance of silver, it is not as resistant to tarnishing as some other types of silver.

Anti-Tarnish Coating: Some silver items are treated with an anti-tarnish coating or lacquer. This protective layer can help prevent the silver from coming into direct contact with the air and thus slow down the tarnishing process.

Tarnish-Resistant Silver: Some manufacturers produce silver that is specifically designed to be more resistant to tarnishing. This is often achieved by altering the alloy composition or by applying a special surface treatment.

Storage and Care: Regardless of the type of silver, proper storage and care can significantly reduce the rate of tarnishing. This includes storing silver in a cool, dry place, using anti-tarnish bags or cases, and cleaning silver regularly with a soft cloth.

In conclusion, while it is challenging to find a type of silver that is completely immune to tarnishing, there are options available that offer greater resistance to this natural process. Argentium silver, in particular, has shown to be a significant improvement over traditional sterling silver in terms of tarnish resistance.

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Over time, any sterling silver jewelry piece exposed to air will tarnish. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals. It's the other metals, primarily copper, that cause sterling silver to tarnish. The copper reacts to moisture and sulfur in the air, causing the tarnishing reaction.Jan 24, 2016read more >>