Liver of Sulfur. I see so much mis-info on the Etsy Forums.
"Sulfurated potash (Liver of Sulfur) is a poorly defined mixture of potassium sulfide, potassium polysulfide, potassium thiosulfate, and probably potassium bisulfide. Synonyms include hepar sulfuris, Liver of sulfur, sulfurated potash, sulfurated potassa. Liver of sulfur is mainly used in metalworking to form a patina, turning copper alloys brown or black."
When you purchase Liver of Sulfur (LOS) you will receive a container of small yellow rocks. You will dissolve a small (dime size) piece in plain hot tap water, swirl or stir (I use a bamboo skewer) until dissolved and then submerge your metal piece to produce the black 'oxidized' surface finish that is seen so much on Etsy.
My jar (pic on right) is three weeks old. I made a LOS solution- and keep it tightly capped under the kitchen sink. When I need to patina a piece, I will fill the sink with the hottest tap water, place the jewelry piece in the LOS, close the lid and put the jar in the sink full of water. I check the piece of jewelry every five minutes until the desired color is achieved. If left in to long, you will have black flakes- which can be removed with a light brushing with an old toothbrush. Rinse your jewelry well and Dry thoroughly. Now you can leave completely dark, or polish the raised areas for a contrast of light and dark.
If your client is allergic to eggs, there is the potential for a reaction to a LOS patina piece.
Have a wonderful, creative day.
peace~
