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Looking for a way to discolor nickel

2004

Hello.

I have an older (1970's vintage) electric guitar. I am updating the hardware, but I would like the hardware to retain a "vintage" appearance. The older guitars all had nickel-plated steel hardware (most newer guitars have chrome-plated hardware). I am looking for a way to prematurely age the new nickel-plated hardware I have purchased for this guitar. I have seen vintage instruments with original discolored nickel hardware, and it really adds to the appearance. I know that letting sterling silver contact cooked egg yolks will hasten the tarnishing process (by adding a disproportionate amount of sulfur to its environment); does the same hold true for nickel?

Many thanks in advance for a reply.

Daniel Klasnick
musician hobbyist - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.

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The chrome plating on top of the nickel, if present, must be stripped first. Then the nickel will tarnish and yellow by itself. I don't think eggs will speed it up, but no harm trying.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2004

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If the nickel is allowed to be exposed to the atmosphere, it will naturally tarnish. This can be enhanced by exposing it it an atmosphere rich in either hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide. Both gases will produce a dark grey/black thin coating of nickel sulfide. Eggs may well do the trick, but could take some time.

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2004