If you’ve ever looked at one of my pieces and said, “Wait, this is silver?” — you’re not alone.
It’s a comment I hear often, especially when the metal has a dark, grey, or even black finish. Many people are surprised to learn that silver doesn’t have to shine bright and white. In fact, those deeper tones are part of a finish called patina, and they’re very much intentional.
So, let’s talk about what patina is, how it’s different from tarnish, and how to take care of silver jewelry that’s been given this moody, artful treatment.
What Is Patina?
Patina is a surface treatment that creates color and depth on metal. In the case of silver jewelry, it’s usually a rich black or dark grey finish applied through a controlled chemical process. Artists (like me!) often use it to bring out textures, highlight details, or give a piece a more dramatic, antique, or earthy vibe.
Think of patina as adding character. Just like a leather bag gets better with time, or an old bronze statue develops that greenish hue we associate with age and beauty, silver can be intentionally darkened to add contrast and mood.
Patina vs. Tarnish: What’s the Difference?
Both patina and tarnish involve silver reacting with sulfur compounds in the air, but the key difference is intention and control.
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Patina is a deliberate design choice. It’s carefully applied and sealed to highlight certain features of a piece.
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Tarnish is a natural, uneven discoloration that happens over time when silver is exposed to air and moisture. It’s the dull or blotchy grey film you sometimes find on old silverware.
While tarnish is something most people try to remove, patina is something I create on purpose — and in many cases, it’s what gives a piece its unique look.
Caring for Patinated Jewelry
If you own jewelry with a darkened silver finish, you don’t need to polish it to a high shine — in fact, please don’t! Standard silver polish will strip away the patina and reveal the bright silver underneath, which can completely change the look of the piece.
Instead, here’s how to keep your patinated jewelry looking its best:
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Avoid harsh cleaners — no silver polish, ultrasonic cleaners, or chemical dips.
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Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth if needed. For textured areas, a soft toothbrush and mild soap work great.
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Store separately in a soft pouch or box to avoid scratches and reduce exposure to air and moisture.
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Embrace the evolution. Over time, patina may wear a bit on high spots or edges — that’s normal, and part of the story your jewelry tells as you wear it.
If you ever want a piece refreshed, you can always reach out — I’m happy to reapply patina if it’s lost some of its drama over the years.
Final Thoughts
Patina gives silver jewelry a whole different personality. It’s bold. It’s mysterious. It brings texture and detail to life in a way that bright silver sometimes can’t.
So next time you see a dark, shadowy silver piece, don’t be surprised — it’s still sterling. Just a little moodier.