How to Care for Your Sterling Silver Jewelry

Home
How to Care for Your Sterling Silver Jewelry

How to Care for Your Sterling Silver

In order to keep your new sterling silver in pristine condition and to ensure longevity, we want you to think of two words; preventative maintenance. Think of it like changing the oil in your car. If you do it on a regular basis, the car will last longer and run better. Caring for you new sterling silver jewelry is no different.

Sterling silver contains copper, which adds hardness to silver. This also creates a tendency for silver jewelry to tarnish. Tarnish is a darkening that occurs when sterling silver reacts with every day substances. Therefore, avoid exposing sterling silver to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, cosmetics, hair spray, and perfume.

Step 1 – Proper Cleaning

When cleaning sterling silver, choose a phosphate-free detergent. Also, choose a low abrasive cleaner, designed for cleaning silver which can aid in removing tarnish. Jewelry experts advise against using toothpaste to clean sterling silver as it can be too abrasive and leave dulling scratches. Body oils help prevent tarnishing so sterling silver jewelry that is worn often won't have to be cleaned as often.

Step 2 – Quick Clean

For a quick cleaning, wash your jewelry periodically with mild dish soap and warm water to prevent tarnishing. Make sure to rinse sterling silver jewelry well and dry completely with a soft cloth before storing.

Step 3 - Polishing

Much beloved sterling silver pieces that are worn continually will probably develop a patina that adds to the jewelry's beauty. This patina may also include some darkened areas. Some prefer this look for their jewelry. Others may prefer a brighter look for their sterling silver. If so, use polish to restore your sterling silver jewelry to its original shiny look. An occasional polishing will also protect sterling silver from tarnishing.

Step 4 - Storing

Store sterling silver jewelry in tarnish prevention cloths or bags, like the one you received with your purchase. These items are made with treated cloth that slows down the tarnishing process. It is also important to separate jewelry when being stored so it does not rub against harder jewelry that could scratch it. If you are not going to wear the piece for a long time, use small zip lock bags to keep it sealed and dry. Do not store the silver jewelry directly in contact with wood surfaces as wood usually contains acids that can damage the finish of the jewelry. Never wrap your jewelry in newspaper or aluminum foil.

If you follow these simple rules for your new silver jewelry it will maintain its beauty and shine for the lifetime of the piece.

Shop the Full Line Of Sterling Silver Jewelry at Celebrity Silver.