Since silver is a natural metal, it interacts with sulfur and oxygen in the air and darkens (oxidizes) over time. This process causes a thin layer on the silver to change color. Sweat, perfume, chemicals and even weather conditions can also accelerate this process.

Silver is not damaged by contact with water, but prolonged exposure to water can accelerate oxidation and cause tarnishing. Exposure to salt water or chlorinated pool water in particular can cause silver to tarnish rapidly. Therefore, it is important to dry silver jewelry after contact with water.