[/tweet_dis_img]Do you own a piece of jewelry that is darkened or blackened ?
This type of finish or patina is called Antiqued. I create it using Liver of Sulfur.
Liver of Sul
fur is that stinky stuff.. and I do mean STINKY. Just like rotten eggs. Sounds delightful doesnt it? Liver of Sulfur comes in nugget form within a small jar or tin like this one.
As long as the contents are kept dry this tin lasts a LONG time. I am on my 2nd tin in 7 years. I use it about once a month.
This potassium sulfide solution combines with the sterling silver to form a colored surface. The design turns blacker when the solution is VERY hot.(water combined with the nugget) Plus I can control the tint by how long I leave in the solution.
Why do I love this finish so much?
[tweet_box design=”default” float=”none”]While shiny sterling and copper is beautiful, it does not compare to the detail and depth I get with the blackened finish. [/tweet_box]
I can leave the recessed parts black and shine up the raised surface… Gorgeous!
This is my favorite way to use Liver of Sulfur.
I seal the finish with wax or a lacquer once I 
am happy with the tint.
I use Liver of Sulfur on copper too. This cuff design features copper and sterling antiqued finishes.
For more antiqued finish designs; alenesadornments
Beautiful color!
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Sometime in early June I purchase one of your Make a Difference Starfish necklaces…. Alene, it is so beautiful it litterally took my breath away when I first opened it. I purchased it as a gift for a long-time great friend that is going through a difficult period. I am having trouble parting with it, but I know she will treasure it. Thank you, Deborah
thanks Deborah. I really appreciate your comment on my design. I know your friend will love it!
alene
You always have such beautiful jewelry here. Your creativity is amazing!
thanks so much Candess. I do have lots of fun creating.
Loved learning about Liver of Sulfur. Cool how you can control the color.
Thanks Robin. It is fun to experiment with it and see the results
Wow, this is a super idea and interesting technique, thanks for sharing this.
Welcome?
Very interesting how you get that finish! I guess I never stopped to think about how the look was created.
Thanks Mindy. Yes there us lots that go into these processes. And possibilities are endless?
Love the copper bangle! Great tip
Thanks so much Suzii?
Wow, so many fun looks you can create. I’m starting to think this would be a very fun and relaxing hobby!
You’re right Brenda. This is very relaxing. Sometimes I even forget to eat!
This “liver of sulfur” definitely can create some magic. It is nice to know about this intricacy. As someone who wears jewelry, now I appreciate the creativity and patience of all those who makes jewelries. Beautifully crafted!
Thanks so much Lorii?
It doesn’t sound like a joy to work with, but the finish is worth it. Beautiful pieces.
This is a great tip! You are SO creative. Seriously:-) Question: I’m allergic to Sulfa. Will this technique leave me allergic to the jewelry?
Hi Tandy. I am allergic to sulfa as well and it has never been an issue. The only allergy concern I have found so far is peanut oil. At one time I was using a peanut oil mixture to create a patina on copper. Even though the finish was coated I didn’t want to take a chance on any medical issues so I discontinued that process.
Nice antique pieces. I would totally wear them!
Thanks Geniece?
I always learn something new each time I visit your page. I wasn’t aware of the “blackened finish by the Liver of Sulphur” I guess this is an eye opener to me. I love the end product and its unique beauty.
Thanks for your kind words.? When it comes to metal working there are so many processes to experiment with. Each one enhances the design
As soon as I saw Liver of Sulphur, I started singing that old song, “ooh, that smell…” I bet that really does stink. But boy, does it give a great result!
yes it SMELLS terrible. I have to plan my usage very carefully . Plus I have a great exhaust system in my studio