How to Care for Your Silver Jewelry

Keep your cherished pieces shining for years

Sterling silver jewelry adds timeless elegance to any collection. But like all fine things, it requires a little care to preserve its brilliance. Here's your complete guide to keeping your silver jewelry beautiful for years to come.

1. What is Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver, commonly marked as 925 silver, is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like copper. This mix adds strength to silver, making it perfect for everyday wear.

2. Why Does Silver Tarnish?

Silver tarnishes when it reacts with sulfur and oxygen in the air, forming a dark coating over time. Other factors like humidity, perfumes, sweat, and cosmetics can speed up this process.

3. Daily Habits to Protect Your Jewelry

• Wear your silver regularly — natural skin oils help prevent tarnish.

• Always put on your jewelry after applying perfume, makeup, or lotion.

• Remove silver jewelry before swimming, cooking, or using cleaning products.

• Store your pieces away when doing housework, gardening, or heavy lifting.

4. How to Clean Silver at Home

Soap and Warm Water:
The simplest method. Mix mild dish soap in warm water, soak your silver jewelry for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse and pat dry.

Jewelry Polishing Cloth:
Use a microfiber or anti-tarnish cloth to gently polish your jewelry and bring back its shine.

Baking Soda Paste:
For light tarnish, make a paste with baking soda and water. Rub gently with a soft toothbrush, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth.

Avoid harsh methods like toothpaste, bleach, or ammonia—they can scratch or damage silver.

5. Storing Silver Jewelry

• Keep your silver in a dry, airtight container or zip-lock pouch.

• Use anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets to control moisture.

• Store each piece separately to prevent scratches.

• Avoid storing silver in humid places like bathrooms.

6. When to Get Professional Cleaning

For intricate or heirloom pieces, consider getting them professionally cleaned once a year. Jewelers have the tools to safely restore shine and inspect for damage.

Final Thoughts

Silver jewelry is meant to be worn, admired, and passed down. With a few simple habits, you can protect its beauty and wear it with pride every day. Your Silver Carat pieces are crafted to last—and with your care, they'll remain as stunning as ever.