Why do some rings turn your skin green?

Some jewellery made from silver, brass or bronze may leave a slight greenish mark on the skin. Although it can look surprising, it is usually not harmful to your health. In most cases, it is caused by a natural reaction between the metal, the skin and external factors.

Below, we explain why it happens and how you can help prevent it.

Why does it happen?

Silver, brass and bronze are metal alloys, which means they are made from a combination of different metals. For example, sterling silver 925 is made of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, which often include copper.

Copper is also present in brass and bronze. This metal can react with sweat, humidity, the skin’s pH, or products such as creams, perfumes, soaps and hand sanitiser.

When this reaction occurs, small greenish marks may appear on the skin, especially in areas where the jewellery has been in direct contact with the skin for several hours, such as with rings.

Every skin type is different. Some people may have a more acidic skin pH or may sweat more, which can make this effect more noticeable.

Is it dangerous?

No. In most cases, this greenish mark is not dangerous and does not mean that the jewellery is poor quality. It is a superficial and temporary reaction that can usually be cleaned easily.

However, if you notice irritation, itching, redness or discomfort, we recommend taking the piece off for a few days. If the reaction continues, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.

How can I remove the green mark from my skin?

The mark can usually be removed easily by washing the area with warm water and soap.

You can also use a makeup remover pad or a soft cloth to remove any residue from the skin. Avoid rubbing too hard, especially if you have sensitive skin.

We do not recommend using acetone, alcohol or harsh products on the skin, as they may dry it out or cause irritation.

How can I prevent a ring from turning my skin green?

To reduce the appearance of greenish marks, we recommend the following:

Store your jewellery in a dry place, separated from other pieces.

Avoid getting rings wet or wearing them in the shower, pool, sea, while exercising or while sleeping.

Do not apply creams, perfumes, hand sanitiser or cosmetics directly onto the jewellery.

Dry your hands well before putting on your rings.

Clean your pieces from time to time with a soft, dry cloth to remove traces of sweat, moisture or cosmetic products.

In some cases, a specific protective lacquer for metals, such as Zapón lacquer, can be applied. You can also apply a thin layer of clear nail polish to the inside of the ring. This creates a barrier between the metal and the skin, although it may wear off with use and will need to be renewed from time to time.

Take care of your jewellery so it lasts longer

Continuous contact with water, sweat, chemical products or humidity can accelerate the natural oxidation of some metals. For this reason, we recommend removing your jewellery before showering, exercising, going to the pool or bathing in the sea.

To learn how to clean and care for each material, you can read our guide: “Care and Maintenance of Silver, Brass, Bronze and Anodized Aluminium Jewellery”.