Sterling Silver Care: How to Properly Care For & Maintain Sterling Silver Jewelry
Sterling silver is a beautiful addition to any jewelry collection. It’s timeless, elegant, and, with proper care, long-lasting. From sterling silver earrings and necklaces to rings and bracelets, there are fewer things more precious than a beautiful piece of sterling silver jewelry.
However, proper care is critical to maintaining the condition of your sterling silver pieces. So, continue reading for must-know tips on properly caring for and maintaining the appearance and durability of your sterling silver jewelry.
Be Mindful of Storing Sterling Silver
After a long day, it may be tempting to remove your sterling silver jewelry and leave them on the bathroom counter; however, if you’re serious about protecting their condition from tarnish, opt for a safe, dry environment. It’s best to store your sterling silver in a small bag or pouch to prevent discoloration.
Avoid Moisture & Chemicals
Sterling silver is susceptible to tarnishing when exposed to water, sweat, and harsh chemicals commonly found in lotions and body soap. To mitigate the amount of tarnish on your favorite pieces, remove your sterling silver jewelry if you plan to do any of the following:
- Shower
- Exercise
- Cook or wash dishes
- Apply lotion or perfume
- Swim
Regularly Clean Sterling Silver
Cleaning sterling silver is paramount to protecting its durability and appearance. Fortunately, you can do it from home with a few simple steps.
Polishing is an excellent way to reduce tarnishing or discoloration. Apply jewelry cleaner to a soft cloth and very gently wipe it over your jewelry pieces (avoid rubbing too vigorously, as doing so may cause the silver to scratch). Next, run your jewelry under warm water and blot it dry with the same polishing cloth. Regularly cleaning your sterling silver will leave your pieces smooth and shiny, restoring them to their original condition.
Conclusion
Sterling silver jewelry is undeniably a standout in any collection; however, they require regular upkeep to maintain a timeless appearance. Remember to be mindful of how you store, clean, and wear your sterling silver jewelry. If you do, you can trust that your pieces will remain beautiful and sparkling each time you adorn them.