The ultimate guide to caring for sterling silver jewellery
One of the most common concerns with sterling silver is tarnishing, but with some simple care techniques, you can keep your silver jewellery looking as good as new. In this post we'll explore various methods and tips for effectively cleaning your sterling silver pieces.
What is sterling silver?
Sterling silver is metal alloy consisting of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The reason for this combination is to improve the durability and strength of the silver, as pure silver is too soft for many practical uses. The addition of copper or other metals helps to make sterling silver more resistant to scratching and bending, while still retaining the beautiful appearance and lustre associated with silver.
Does sterling silver tarnish?
The simple answer is yes, all sterling silver can tarnish. But don’t panic, the good news is that it is easy to prevent, and simple to remove and restore shine.
Before diving into cleaning methods, let’s look at why sterling silver tarnishes. Tarnish occurs when silver reacts with sulphur compounds in the air, leading to a darkening or discolouration of the metal. Factors such as humidity, air pollutants and certain chemicals in everyday items such as sunscreen and chlorine can accelerate tarnishing. Even the chemicals present in our sweat have the potential to tarnish silver jewellery, a process influenced by our individual body chemistry.
What does silver tarnish look like?
Tarnish on sterling silver jewellery typically appears as a dull, darkened layer over the surface of the metal. It can range in colour from yellowish-brown to black, and can appear as a speckled pattern or dark spots.
Is tarnish the same as rust?
No, sterling silver does not rust! Tarnish is caused by oxidation and sits on the surface of the metal, which is easily removed through cleaning. Rust, however, is a deeper form of corrosion in metals containing iron, causing the metal to chip and weaken.
How do I stop silver jewellery from tarnishing?
All sterling silver is susceptible to tarnish over time, but here are some ways to minimise and slow it down:
Store properly: Store your silver jewellery in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and humidity. Consider using airtight container.
Avoid exposure to chemicals: Remove silver jewellery before swimming, using household cleaners, applying lotions, or any activities involving chemicals, as they can accelerate tarnishing.
Keep dry: Moisture speeds up tarnishing, so ensure your jewellery is completely dry before storing it away.
Wear often: Wearing your silver jewellery regularly can actually help prevent tarnishing, as the oils in your skin can help maintain its lustre.
Clean regularly: Gently clean your silver jewellery with a soft cloth after each wear to remove oils, dirt, and sweat that can contribute to tarnishing. You can also use a silver polishing cloth or a mild silver cleaner periodically to keep your jewellery looking its best.
Avoid direct contact: Avoid wearing silver jewellery while engaging in activities that involve contact with abrasive surfaces, as scratches can also make tarnishing more likely.
How often should I clean my sterling silver jewellery?
The frequency with which you clean your sterling silver jewellery depends on how often you wear it and the level of tarnish it develops. As a general guideline:
Regular maintenance: Clean your sterling silver jewellery with a soft cloth after each wear to remove oils, dirt, and sweat that can contribute to tarnishing. This routine maintenance helps to prevent tarnish buildup and keeps your jewellery looking its best.
Periodic deep cleaning: Depending on how frequently you wear your jewellery and the conditions it's exposed to, you may need to give it a more thorough cleaning every few weeks or months. More on our favourite cleaning methods below!
How can I make my own silver jewellery cleaner?
When it comes to cleaning sterling silver jewellery, a gentle approach is key to avoid damaging the metal or any gemstones it may contain.
One of the simplest and most effective methods is using a mild soap solution and warm water. Here's how to do it:
Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild washing up liquid.
Gently swirl the water to create suds.
Place your sterling silver jewellery in the bowl and let it soak for a few minutes.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a soft cloth to gently scrub the jewellery, paying special attention to any intricate designs or crevices. * Note - this is best for chains, avoid using bristles on flat polished areas (such as discs or pendants) to prevent fine scratches.
Rinse the jewellery thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove any soap residue.
Pat the jewellery dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
DIY tarnish removal recipe:
For stubborn tarnish or to give your jewellery an extra shine, you can try making your own nontoxic cleaning solution:
Line a glass dish with aluminium foil and fill with hot water.
Stir in 2 tsp of Bicarbonate of Soda, and 1 tsp of salt.
Add the silver jewellery pieces into the solution, so that they are resting on the foil.
After a few minutes, remove the silver and rinse with fresh water.
For more heavily tarnished items, leave in the solution for for up to 5 minutes.
Buff with a soft cloth and enjoy your clean and shiny jewellery!
Commercial Silver Cleaners:
There are also commercial silver cleaners available on the market, but it's essential to choose products specifically formulated for sterling silver jewellery. We like the town talk range of cotton polishing cloths, as they are impregnated with a formula to remove tarnish and restore shine. Always apply gentle pressure when hand polishing, so as not to damage the item.
We hope you found this guide helpful! For more info about the metals we use in our jewellery, take a look at the ‘what is gold filled jewellery?’ journal entry.