Caring For Your Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver is the most popular alloy containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. While this small percentage of added copper does not affect the silver color, it greatly improves its durability and hardness.

Sterling silver can be identified by a "quality" or "fineness" marking stamp or engraving which is required by law. Generally you would notice the ".925" mark (denoting 92.5%) on smaller objects such as jewelry. Larger items, such as flatware, trays, and tea sets, might be stamped or engraved with "sterling" or "sterling silver," etc., as well as the manufacturer's logo or trademark.

Silver is also subject to tarnishing, a result of its molecular properties of being able to chemically combine with oxygen and sulfur in the air, other substances containing sulfur, as well as certain acids. Although this phenomenon was certainly useful in the advancement of the field of photography it is generally unwelcome, with the exception of decorative oxidation designs.

Tarnish on silver starts out as a yellowish tinge and is most easily removed at this stage. Over time silver tarnish progresses to a blackish purple coating becoming much more difficult to remove. Prolonged, unprotected storage is generally when tarnish occurs.

Usually, tarnish will not appear on jewelry that is worn on a regular basis. The gentle friction from wearing and the contact of oils on the skin will likely keep your jewelry bright and sparkling. Note though that taking certain medications can cause changes in skin acidity and may cause your jewelry to tarnish.

To exercise good silver care, keep your jewelry free of tarnish by doing frequent cleaning. Cleaning silver jewelry can be done by using a simple dilute solution of mild dishwashing liquid and water. Silver care is very important. Rinse and dry thoroughly and store in a dry container. The presence of moisture can act as a catalyst and will promote tarnish. If possible, store your jewelry in a zip-loc plastic bag with anti-tarnish paper.

Light tarnish or oxidation film can be removed with silver polishing cloths. You may them at major supermarkets, hardware stores or jewelry/silver care shops. Heavy tarnishing will require the use of commercially available polishing creams, or dip liquids. Do use care with these, limiting the exposure of gemstones to silver cleaners as they may contain chemicals that can harm certain gemstones. Always rinse and dry jewelry thoroughly with a soft cloth making sure no residual cleaner remains.

Note well that while cream and dip liquid polishes will most likely remove tarnish and oxidation from your jewelry, they will almost certainly remove any decorative oxidation designs and patinas as well. Therefore it is best to keep these items free of tarnish through proper storage and the use of cleaning cloths.

• Do not allow your silver jewelry to come in contact with items containing sulfur (matches, rubberbands, etc).
  
• Avoid your jewelry's contact with abrasive soaps, chemicals, perfumes, hair sprays, dyes, etc. Chemicals, including silver polishes, can harm certain gemstones with prolonged contact.
  
• Remove your jewelry while washing, bathing, doing dishes, household chores or cleaning with chemicals.
  
• To prevent tarnishing, wash jewelry with a dilute solution of mild dishwashing liquid & water. Rinse & dry thoroughly. If possible, store jewelry in an airtight zip-lock bag with anti-tarnish paper.
  
• Don't use dip liquid polishes on jewelry with decorative oxidation. Dips will remove tarnish as well as the decoration.
  
• Silver is a relatively soft metal and can scratch. Do not scrub with abrasive cloths or cleansers. Use a jewelry polishing cloth frequently to prevent tarnish build-up.
  
• Remove your jewelry before doing strenuous activities, exercise, sports, swimming (both ocean saltwater or chlorinated pools), to prevent scratching, denting or loss of gemstones.
  
• Remove jewelry before going to bed to avoid kinking or breakage.
  By knowing some of silver's characteristics & taking a little extra care, your silver jewelry really can give you a lifetime of enjoyment.