Silver Black and Durability

I want to turn some sterling siliver black and have read about "Silver
Black" in past threads.

How durable is this finish if used on outer surfaces (not recessed
areas) of a ring? Also, would there be any issues with skin contact
against this finish?

Regards,
Ed Ferguson

On Mon, 03 May 2004 18:54:21 -0700, in rec.crafts.jewelry (Ed)
wrote:

I want to turn some sterling siliver black and have read about "Silver
Black" in past threads.

How durable is this finish if used on outer surfaces (not recessed
areas) of a ring? Also, would there be any issues with skin contact
against this finish?

Regards,
Ed Ferguson

Silver black produces a chemical finish somewhat similar to that produced by
liver of sulphur or other sulphide chemicals, except that the color produced
tends to be really black, not the grayish to blue/black of liver of sulphur.
It's durability is about the same, meaning if subjected to abrasion or
polishing action, it will be abraded off, just like liver of sulphur finishes
do. However, with that said, such finishes are not actually fragile. Removing
them does take more than a single casual or light contact. It takes some
serious abrasion. It is, after all, a chemically altered actual metal surface,
not just a paint of something that easily flakes off. nevertheless, it will be
a lot more durable when applied to a surface that can protect it, such as a
deep texture, or recessed areas.

peter