Sterling Silver

How to care for Sterling Silver As with every product its life span will depend on the care you give it. These are some helpful hints on how to look after your silver pieces.

1. To maintain the original condition of your silver jewelry, polish your pieces regularly using a non-abrasive cleaning cloth.

2. Soap and water will also help keep your silver looking good. Remember do not dry silver off with paper towels or tissues, always use a soft cloth.

3. When you are NOT wearing your silver jewellery, store them in a cool, dry place. Zip-lock bag and individual cloth pouches are ideal for this and will help prevent both tarnishing and scratching by other pieces. What causes silver to tarnish is air, and when it is not in use, the more you can keep it sealed the less it will tarnish.

4. Never immerse your silver jewelry in chlorine, salt water, mineral springs, and suntan lotion. Remember, some household cleaners contain chlorine bleach; these will cause discoloration and also loosen the gemstones.

5. Avoid abrasive cleaners, detergents and commercial jewelry cleaners "dips" especially if the pieces have an oxidized finish. Using harsh polishing cleaners will alter the antique look of your jewellery.

6. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner, ammonia or any chemical solution to clean opaque gemstones, such as turquoise, malachite, onyx, lapis lazuli and opals. They are a porous stone and may absorb chemicals, which build up inside the stone and cause discoloration. Simply wipe them gently with a moist cloth until clean.

7. If your jewelry contains gemstones or pearls, do not immerse in water, as this can loosen some settings. Never use dips or abrasives cleaners on gemstones.

8. If your silver jewelry does tarnish, we recommend using a product called Tarni-Shield silver polish (or another good gentle cleaner) and a soft, smooth cloth. It cleans and polishes very well. However, we do not recommend this on silver with antiquing; as it may remove this finish, or silver that contain gemstones. Note, we are in no way affiliated with, and are not responsible for mishandling of this product. Recommended for plain silver only.