At Rebellious Grace, our commitment to providing you with exquisite sterling silver jewellery goes hand in hand with our dedication to ensuring that your precious pieces remain as beautiful as the day you first received them. Today, we are excited to share our expert knowledge on how to care for sterling silver jewellery, making it not only a stunning accessory but a cherished heirloom for generations to come.
Understanding Sterling Silver
Before we delve into the best care practices, let's understand what sterling silver is. Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination imparts strength and durability to the silver, making it perfect for crafting intricate jewellery pieces. Sterling silver is a base metal and is commonly covered with gold plating- see our other blog posts on guides to plated jewellery.
The Dos and Don'ts of Sterling Silver Jewellery Care
- DO: Store Your Jewellery Properly Storing your sterling silver jewellery is crucial to prevent tarnish and scratches. We recommend using anti-tarnish jewellery pouches or cases, and storing pieces in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and humidity. To prevent tangling, consider hanging necklaces on hooks or laying them flat in a jewellery box.
- DON’T: Store in Humid Environments Sterling silver is sensitive to moisture and humidity, which can accelerate tarnishing. Avoid storing your jewellery in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, and always remove it before swimming or showering.
- DO: Clean Your Jewellery Regularly Regular cleaning is key to maintaining the luster of your sterling silver pieces. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away dirt and oils after wearing. For deeper cleaning, create a mild soapy solution using warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Gently clean your jewellery with a soft brush, rinse with clean water, and pat dry with a soft cloth.
- DON’T: Use Harsh Chemicals Avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach, chlorine, or ammonia, as they can damage the silver and gemstones. Also, steer clear of abrasive materials like toothpaste or baking soda, as they can scratch the surface of your jewellery.
- DON’T: Invest in Anti-Tarnish Products Anti-tarnish products, such as tarnish-resistant cloths or strips, are excellent for preventing tarnish buildup. Place these strips in your jewellery box or pouch to create a protective environment.
- DON’T: Expose Your Jewellery to Household Chemicals Keep your jewellery away from household chemicals, such as perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays. Apply these products before putting on your jewellery to avoid direct contact, as they can lead to tarnishing and discoloration.
- DO: Schedule Professional Cleaning Consider having your sterling silver jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected by a jeweler at least once a year. They can ensure your pieces are in top condition and provide any necessary repairs. Most places will cover this under warranty and offer services in store.
- DON’T: Wear Jewellery While Doing Heavy Physical Activities Remove your jewellery before engaging in strenuous activities or sports to prevent damage or injury. Silver is relatively soft and can be broken or bent easily.
At Rebellious Grace, we take pride in offering you the finest sterling silver jewellery, and we want your investment to shine brilliantly for years to co
- By following our expert tips, you can ensure that your cherished pieces remain as beautiful and radiant as ever. Remember, caring for your sterling silver jewellery is a labor of love, and with the right knowledge and techniques, you can pass down these timeless treasures to future generations. Trust the market leaders in jewellery and retail to guide you on this exquisite journey of jewellery care.