Green Crystal Corrosion on Silver

[Pronghorn]

Hey:

Ive just spent an hour looking at an EKII marked '800' under a 15X loop. Have noticed green crystaline corrosion in one area of the silver frame/rim in the groves between the 'beads'.

The corrosion is firmly attached resisting a firm sable hair paint brush.

What is this stuff?

Also, I've discovered that Rem Oil, a light oil with teflon made by Remington [rifle] and available at Walmart is EXCELLENT when painted on with a soft sable brush. It stabilizes rust, protects patina and cuts through grime....very nice.

Robert

[Frank Heukemes]

Hi Robert,

In German, this is called Grünspan. It should be removable if you really want to by gently using anything that mildly cleans silver on that spot. The damage Grünspan does to silver is not necessarily visible after removing it, it does not visibly corrode silver as rust does with iron.

Just be careful when you remove it. Before you use stuff that cleans silver, you should try with soapy luke warm water, maybe that will do the job too. Be sure to dry the cross afterwards with a hairdryer, so no water remains under the frame.

Cheers, Frank H.