The antioxidant treatment, invented by the Research Laboratory of Calegaro S.p.A. and that can be applied to any product, constitutes a great step forward in the protection of silver, which is subject to the oxidation caused by the aggression of atmospheric agents.
The procedure is by no means based on the palliative solutions already launched on the market in the past and, because inefficient, very short-lived indeed. It deviates completely from the standard techniques of mattocking (a kind of varnishing which makes it impossible to do maintenance or repair work on the piece and which turns yellow as time goes by) and from those of rhodium-plating, an expensive method with only limited results.

A procedure of galvanic nature by the deposit of noble metals eliminates oxidation and has numerous advantages.
Shop-keepers derive a double benefit from this as they do not have to incur the high expenses of silver maintenance and often increase sales considerably.
The end-user, especially the young, will no longer be psychologically conditioned by the problem of maintenance and will perhaps let themselves be more easily tempted to buy articles in solid silver.

Neo Argentum leaves the appearance of our silver unchanged, giving it a covering which preserves the pieces over time. Even the traditional “silver colour” is kept, without damaging the product in the least.
To make communication with the sales points and the sell-out easier, Calegaro has made notices to be stuck on shop-windows with a message particularly aimed at the young clientele.
After performing tests in extreme conditions in order to check the actual efficacy of the treatment (silver items in warm and damp areas, in the vicinity of the sea or exposed to direct sources of heat and light) and after obtaining a Patent, Calegaro S.p.A. ensures life-long guarantee for any manufacturing faults found in the pieces treated.

“NEW TREATMENT
Calegaro’s research laboratory has patented a new antioxidant treatment called “Neo Argentum”. This treatment aims to protect the surface of silver against the oxidation caused by atmospheric agents. ”.
From ARGENTO! Lifestyle Interior Design 107 - Feb/Mar 2004

"One of the physical features of silver - not very much appreciated by the user, by the way - is that of reacting to the environment, thus generating a black patina on the surface which cause the metal to lose its perfect white colour, which was even recognised by ancient civilizations.
A treatment that avoids the formation of this patina would certainly be of invaluable interest"
Dott. Valerio Faccenda, metallurgic consultant for L'Orafo Italiano.

"Do not let yourselves be deceived by this provoking title.
Actually, it represents the natural behaviour of those who wishes to enjoy all the advantages of this noble metal but simply does not feel like cleaning it.
It seems easy now that it is there. But believe me, it has required extensive studies, time and investments."
Francesco Calegaro