Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish & How To Stop It?

Sterling silver has been a valuable metal since many centuries because of its luster, brilliance, shine, and durability. It is a fantastic metal to make jewelry, which is why it is a favorite of millions of people all around the world. It is a precious metal along with gold & platinum. However, sterling silver can tarnish if not taken care of. But, when we see our favorite jewelry discoloring, we all get a little sad because it is not a pretty sight. This blog will tell you how cleaning jewelry at home& some DIY preventive tips can keep your silver jewelry always shining. If one takes proper care of their silver jewelry, it can turn into a family heirloom.

WHY SILVER TURNS GREEN OR GETS TARNISHED?

Before this question, you surely want to know how sterling silver is made? Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, zinc, or nickel, etc. With time, sterling silver exposed to air and humidity will get tarnished. When these metals are exposed to the sulfur, humidity, or pollution in the air, a dark layer of tarnishing is formed on the surface. Cosmetics, perfumes, deodorants, body lotion, bleach, etc can also harm your jewelry. This is why sterling silver jewelry requires continuous cleaning to maintain its original shine and luster.

CAN STERLING SILVER TARNISHING BE PREVENTED?

Keep Away From Chlorine

Do not let your silver jewelry come in contact with chlorine or salt water. It can cause severe damage and tarnishing.

Keep Away From Water

Do not go for a shower, swimming, a hot tub bath, wash your hands with soap, or clean your home while wearing sterling silver jewelry.

Dry It Completely

If it comes in contact with water, dry it off completely before storing it in an airtight box because humidity can offset tarnishing.

How To Store Jewelry

Store the sterling silver jewelry in an airtight container or a zip-pouch and keep it away from moisture, air pollution, heat, sunlight, etc.

Chalk In Jewelry Box

You can store a piece of chalk in your jewelry box. It will absorb the moisture in the air and prevent tarnishing.

HOWTO REMOVE TARNISH FROM STERLING SILVER?

Polishing Cloths For Jewelry

Wash your silver jewelry with a mild dishwashing soap solution and wipe it clean with cotton swabs or a clean, dry cloth. Use a polishing cloth for silver to buff the surface after cleaning.

Jewelry Cleaning With Baking Soda

You can also wash silver in warm water and baking powder solution. Use a soft toothbrush to clean the difficult areas. Wipe off the jewelry after cleaning because any water residue can offset tarnishing.

Easy Silver Jewelry Cleaner

Toothpaste is used to clean and provide shine to our teeth. The same way, it can make your silver jewelry sparkle. Rub any white toothpaste on your jewelry with a soft cloth and then rinse it with warm water. Wipe it well with a soft, clean and dry cloth.

Tarnish Remover

Dip the silver jewelry in ketchup and leave it overnight. Rub it with a soft toothbrush and rinse off the ketchup with warm water. Wipe them clean with a soft, dry cloth.

Milk: A Tarnish Remover For Silver

Dip the sterling silver jewelry in milk. Let it soak for 15–20 minutes and rinse it with warm water. Buff to shine it with a soft buffing cloth.

In short, take good care of your silver jewelry and save it from water or any chemicals. After wearing the jewelry, store it in an airtight jewelry box. Keep this box away from moisture and all the other things mention above. Clean regularly with the above-mentioned jewelry cleaning DIY methods to maintain your jewelry and keep its shine intact for years.