Silver tarnish is a dark coating on the surface of silver that forms when the metal reacts with sulfur and oxygen in the air, creating a chemical compound called silver sulfide. This is a natural occurrence. The rate of tarnishing is influenced by environmental factors like humidity, exposure to chemicals, and moisture, and is a normal characteristic of the metal.

Because tarnish is a result of oxidation, excessive tarnish can cause degrading of the silver or silver plated finish.

Replace your anti-tarnish strip every 3 months for best results, as opening your flute case constantly exposes the flute and strip to oxidants.