Tips On How To Care For Your Sterling Silver Jewelry

Tips On How To Care For Your Sterling Silver Jewelry

At Indie Etc, we take pride in offering sterling silver options for every silver plated necklace we can create. There is a lot to consider however when upgrading to sterling silver. Though it will create a longer lasting necklace, and creates a more beautiful and one of a kind piece, the necklace will have to be worn with care. By following the tips and information below, we hope you too can have a one of a kind keepsake that you will continue to love.

Over time, any sterling silver piece exposed to air will begin to tarnish. Most sterling silver pieces are 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals such as zinc, platinum, but mostly copper. The copper is what causes most tarnish in the sterling silver. The copper causes the tarnishing process when it reacts to moisture and sulfurs in the air. Sterling silver seems to tarnish a lot faster in areas with high humidity and air pollution. Chemicals such as perfume, hairspray, and body lotions can drastically speed up the tarnishing process.

Below are some key tips on how to help prevent early tarnishing on your sterling silver jewelry and pieces:

• Storing:
  When your sterling silver jewelry is not being worn, it is best to keep it in a cool, dark place away from sources of sunlight, heat, and moisture. At Indie Etc, all of our sterling silver necklaces are shipped in a box with silica gel moisture absorbers, and placed into a ziploc bag. This makes for the perfect way to store your jewelry when not being worn. Another great item to use while storing is a small strip of anti-tarnish paper that can be placed in the bag along with the jewelry.
  
• Wearing:
  When wearing your sterling silver pieces, it is best to not wear in showers, swimming pools, hot tubs, or any place where the item may get wet. Humidity and moisture can start the tarnishing process a lot faster, than if kept dry.
  
• Cleaning:
  If tarnishing starts to appear on your necklace, it can be cleaned with a polishing cloth. If a polishing cloth can not remove all of the tarnish, start with the steps below. These steps are for a completely sterling piece, and NOT for gemstones or pearls or other objects that may be adorned on the necklace.
  Wash the necklace in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Immerse the sterling silver piece in the water and gently hand wash.
  A cotton swab can be used for corners and crevices.
  If more abrasive cleaning is needed, a very soft baby toothbrush can be used.
  Thoroughly rinse your necklace, and be sure to completely dry before storing, as moisture will cause tarnishing to return.
  
  
• A few other things to consider when cleaning your pieces:
  Do not use harsh chemicals such as bleach, acetone, etc. They will ruin the surface of your jewelry.
  Do not use toothpaste or baking soda to clean, as it can scratch your jewelry.

If you ever have any questions about sterling silver, or any jewelry related questions, please feel free to contact us at any time on through our online contact form at: 
https://www.indieetc.com/contact-us/