Sterling silver is a great option for those with sensitive skin, offering both aesthetic appeal and hypoallergenic properties. When properly cared for, your sterling silver jewellery can last a lifetime. However, left in the wrong environmental conditions, sterling silver will naturally tarnish over time and will require cleaning to restore shine. Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish? Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. Pure silver is too soft to withstand the rigours of daily wear, so it is alloyed with copper to make it strong. Unfortunately, it's this copper content that reacts with moisture and sulphur in the air, causing the dreaded tarnish to appear. Several factors can accelerate the tarnishing process, including: High Humidity and Air Pollution: Living in a humid environment or a place with high levels of air pollution can speed up tarnish formation. Proper storage is key in such conditions. pH Balance of Your Skin: Your skin's pH balance can fluctuate due to various factors such as stress, diet, and medications. These changes can impact how quickly your jewellery tarnishes. Chemical Exposure: Certain substances like perfumes, soaps, lotions, cleaning products, bleaches, and chlorine can interact with your jewellery, leading to tarnish. Be mindful when using these products. How to Clean Your Sterling Silver Jewellery The good news is that cleaning your tarnished silver is a straightforward process. With a few simple steps, you can quickly restore its signature shine. Option 1: Use a Silver Polishing Cloth Regularly using a silver polishing cloth can quickly rejuvenate your jewellery. These cloths are treated with tarnish-fighting ingredients, making it easy to remove tarnish buildup and restore the jewellery’s shine. Gently buff your pieces with the cloth, and they'll be sparkling like new. Option 2: Commercial Silver Dip Solution For heavily tarnished items, consider a commercial silver "dip" solution. However, exercise caution - this method is not suitable for jewellery with plating, oxidized silver, or delicate gemstones. If you're uncertain, it's best to consult a professional jeweller for cleaning advice. Option 3: DIY At-Home Cleaning Method If you're looking for an at-home solution, try this DIY method: Materials: Baking soda Aluminum foil Boiling water A glass dish Soft cloth Steps: Line a glass dish with aluminium foil, ensuring the shiny side faces up. Place your tarnished silver pieces on the aluminium foil. Sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda evenly over the silver items. Pour boiling water into the dish, enough to cover the jewellery. Let the jewellery sit for a few minutes, and watch as the tarnish disappears, transferring to the aluminium foil. Carefully remove your jewellery from the water. Rinse the jewellery under cool water to remove any baking soda residue. Pat the pieces dry with a soft cloth. This at-home method is an excellent option for those looking to clean their silver without commercial products. But again, won't be suitable for jewellery with plating, oxidized silver, or delicate gemstones. Preventing Silver Tarnish Prevention is often easier than dealing with tarnish. Here are some tips to help you keep your sterling silver jewellery looking its best: Avoid Direct Contact with Harsh Substances: Steer clear of direct contact with perfumes, soaps, and lotions, as well as cleaning products and chlorine. Apply your cosmetics and scents before adding your jewellery. Remove Your Jewelry Before Certain Activities: Take off your jewellery before showering, swimming, or engaging in strenuous exercise. This prevents exposure to moisture and harsh chemicals that can cause tarnish. Proper Storage: When not regularly worn, store your jewellery in an airtight environment. You can use resealable plastic bags or special anti-tarnish pouches to keep your pieces in pristine condition. By following these tips, you can confidently protect your sterling silver jewellery from deterioration. Proper care ensures your collection retains its shine for years to come. If you'd like style specific advice on caring for your Static Jewellery, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're always happy to help! Lots of love,
