Silver Jewelry Care and Maintenance
Whether you own a collection of silver jewelry or just a few cherished pieces, it's important to know how to maintain and clean them effectively.
Why Sterling Silver Tarnishes:
Sterling silver, typically 92.5% pure silver, tarnishes due to a chemical reaction with air. This tarnishing doesn't mean you should discard your jewelry – it's manageable with proper care.
Preventing Tarnish:
- Regular wear helps keep silver shiny.
- Remove jewelry during household chores to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Apply cosmetics and perfumes before wearing your jewelry.
Cleaning Sterling Silver:
- Soap and water: Ideal for gentle cleaning.
- Baking soda and water paste: Use instead of toothpaste for a gentle scrub.
- White vinegar and baking soda: Effective for heavy tarnish. Soak for 2-3 hours, then rinse and dry.
- Finish with a polishing cloth specifically for silver.
- Regular cleaning prevents excessive tarnish buildup.
Storing Silver Jewelry:
- Use air-tight containers, like zip-lock bags or specialty jewelry bags.
- Store in cool, dark places.
- Keep pieces separate to avoid scratches or tangling.
- Consider anti-tarnish strips or anti-tarnish bags. Silver Garden Designs provides these bags for necklaces and pendants and some larger earrings.
- Avoid paper, cardboard, or cotton-filled boxes which may speed up tarnishing.
Additional Tarnish Prevention Tips:
- Store with chalk or silica packs to absorb moisture.
- Line your jewelry box with anti-tarnish cloths.
By following these tips, you can ensure your silver jewelry remains beautiful and lustrous for years.