How to clean silver jewellery

Sterling silver tarnishes when exposed to humidity, Chlorine, cosmetics, household chemicals, perspiration, salty air, sulphur and other strong chemicals. 

Lotions, cosmetics, hairspray (and other hair products)  hand sanitisers all contain chemicals which you may not think are so bad but they will all accelerate tarnish on your silver jewellery.

Tarnish is inevitable over time but you can significantly slow down the process with a few easy steps.

To prevent tarnish and slow down the natural process, clean your jewellery after wearing with  a soft silver polishing cloth, (like the one you received with your order.)  Once clean, store the piece in an anti tarnish bag (like the one you received with your order) until you want to wear the piece again.

Removing your jewellery and storing in an anti tarnish bag while engaging in the following activities will significantly slow down the natural again process and prevent damage to any precious stones in your jewellery

* Household chores

* Gardening

* Swimming

* Hot tubs

* Exercising at the gym or contact sports

* Cooking and preparing meals

 

Wearing your jewellery is the best way to prevent tarnish, the natural oils in your skin will help to keep your jewellery looking lovely and shiny.

 

Cleaning silver tarnished Jewellery 

Prevention is of course better than cure but if your sterling silver jewellery has lightly tarnished you can clean the piece with a soft silver polishing cloth. This is also the best option for intentionally oxidised jewellery as it will allow you to keep the intentional oxidisation on the low spots.

Silver is a soft metal and can become scratched easily. Always use a soft cloth for polishing, never paper towels or tissues as these contain fibres that can scratch silver.

When polishing use back and forward motions that mirror the grain on the silver. Do not rub in circles as this will magnify the tiny scratches.

For stubborn dirt, a children's soft toothbrush with some dish soap will help. Dry well and then give it a rub over with a silver polishing cloth.

 

Please note that silver dips and other silver cleaning chemical solutions are not recommended for jewellery with gemstones.

If you would like your jewellery which was designed by Annemarie, professionally cleaned please use the contact me page.