A green or black discoloration on your finger when wearing a silver ring is a common issue, and it's usually due to a chemical reaction between the metal and your skin, not necessarily the quality of the ring. The green tint is primarily caused by the copper present in sterling silver (92.5% silver, 7.5% copper) reacting with moisture, acids, or oils on your skin.
Why it happens:
The copper in the silver alloy reacts with acidic substances or moisture on your skin, causing oxidation and a green or black patina to form.
Individuals with more acidic skin may experience this reaction more readily.
Even high-quality sterling silver can cause this effect if not properly cared for.
The natural oils and sweat on your skin can contribute to the reaction.
The humidity in the air and certain chemicals in products can also exacerbate the reaction.
Is it harmful?
The green residue is not harmful to your skin or health. In fact, copper has antimicrobial properties.
How to prevent it:
Remove rings when washing hands, showering, or swimming: This will help prevent the rings from reacting with water and other substances.
Avoid wearing rings while applying creams or lotions: Chemicals in these products can react with the silver.
Clean your rings regularly: Use a soft cloth or gentle silver polish to remove any buildup.