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Sterling silver causing finger discoloration

I recently purchased a wide band, sterling silver ring that has decorative brass grommets all around it. For some reason, this ring has caused discoloration to my finger. I have worn lots of sterling silver jewerly before, but never had this problem. Why now? Also, how can I make this discoloration go away?

Many thanks for your advice..

Kate W [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
- Manassas, VA, U.S.A.
2003

Sounds like the sterling silver has worn through and you are picking up copper from the brass. Skin secretions are quite acidic and can dissolve metal to form minute amounts of metal salts that deposit on the skin. Some metals, such as nickel can cause allergic responses, excema and even dermatitis.

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2003

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