You can test if silver is real by observing its reaction to bleach: real silver tarnishes quickly when exposed to it.
Here's a breakdown of how to test for real silver, using bleach:
Bleach Test for Silver
This test relies on the chemical reaction between silver and bleach (sodium hypochlorite).
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The Reaction: Silver reacts with bleach, causing it to tarnish rapidly. This tarnish appears as a black or dark-colored coating on the surface of the silver.
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Procedure:
- Apply a small spot of bleach to an inconspicuous area of the item you suspect is silver.
- Observe the reaction. Real silver will tarnish and darken relatively quickly (within minutes).
- Polish the tarnish away. Since silver tarnishes quickly when in contact with bleach, the tarnish can easily be polished away. When polishing, the silver item should leave the cloth slightly blackened by the tarnish being removed.
Interpreting the Results
| Result | Implication |
|---|---|
| Rapid tarnishing (darkening) with bleach | Likely real silver |
| No reaction or very slow tarnishing | Unlikely real silver |
Important Considerations
- Spot Test: Always perform this test in a small, hidden area first, as bleach can potentially damage or discolor some materials.
- Tarnish Removal: Remember that the tarnish created by the bleach test is easily polished away from real silver.
- Not Definitive: While the bleach test is a quick and easy method, it's not 100% definitive. Other metals may react similarly, although the speed and nature of the tarnish might differ. For more accurate results, consider professional testing methods.
- Safety: Handle bleach with care. Avoid contact with skin and eyes, and work in a well-ventilated area.
