Silver jewellery looks good but, as with all metals, silver must be maintained in order to keep it shining and gleaming. Because silver is prone to corrosion from the air and moisture, you can expect your sterling silver jewelry to last for many years without much work.
Why Does Silver Tarnish?
Silver corrodes when exposed to sulphur or other air pollutants. This forms a grayish film on the surface of the jewelry. Tinting is inevitable, and can happen to even the best pieces of furniture, but fortunately it’s easy to clean and prevent.
1. Cleaning Your Silver Jewelry
Cleaning your silver jewelry is easy, you don’t need specialized equipment or costly cleaners. Here’s what you need:
• Light Soap: Float hot water over a small amount of dish soap. Scrub the jewelry using a soft cloth or a soft bristled toothbrush.
• Silver Polish Cloth: You can also try a silver polishing cloth that will remove the tarnish and polish it. This cloth has a special chemical that is designed to remove silver without scratching it.
• Baking Soda Paste: If the tarnish is hard, you can use baking soda in addition to a little water to form a paste. Work the paste lightly over your jewelry, wash it off with warm water, and pat dry with a tissue.
2. Storing Your Silver Jewelry
You should always store your silver jewellery in the right manner to avoid tarnishing. Store your silverware in a cool dry place, away from moisture and sunlight. Your jewellery will remain protected by an airtight case, such as a soft-lined jewelry box or anti-tarnish pouch.
If you’re keeping multiples of them, keep them separate so you won’t scratch them. You can also add small packets of silica gel to remove moisture from the storage container.
3. Preventing Tarnish
In order to reduce tarnishing, do not expose your silver jewelry to harmful chemicals present in perfumes, lotions, and cleaners. Furthermore, take your silver pieces out of your pool or bath to keep it from getting tainted by chlorine and salt water.
Wearing your silver jewelry regularly can also preserve the luster. Your skin oils can also help avoid tarnish accumulation, making your art work look awesome.
Taking care of your silver jewellery doesn’t have to be difficult. Cleaning, storage, and handling will keep your silver pieces looking shiny and elegant for a lifetime.
