Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Sterling silver is a lovely and versatile metal for jewelry, making it very popular. However, between neglect and just the nature of sterling silver, it's easy for it to lose its luster and tarnish. You may be wondering how this happens. Tarnishing simply happens through exposure to oxygen and oxidative reactions that occur with sulfur making it all too easy for it to happen. High humidity levels, air pollution and contact with chemicals found in deodorant, hairspray, lotions, perfume, and bleach can also cause tarnishing.