HOW TO TAKE CARE OF SILVER JEWELRY

Silver jewelry makes any appearance look classy, but it needs to be wiped, cleaned, and polished correctly. Here is a compilation of the best practices that will guide you on the best ways of cleaning your silver jewelry in the easiest way possible. 

 

STORE PROPERLY 

 

Did you know that silver jewelry can turn black when exposed to air and moisture? So, if you don’t want this to happen and to avoid this, it is recommended that your pieces are stored in a cool, dry place. Take into consideration the use of anti-tarnish strips of cloth in your jewelry box to help wipe out moisture or chemicals in the air. Storing each piece in an individual, airtight plastic bag can also reduce contact with the moist environment. 

 

WEAR IT REGULARLY 

 

Many people may not know this, but wearing silver items regularly helps prevent the formation of tarnishes on the jewelry. The natural oils that are present on your skin not only help prevent the silver jewelry from turning black, but they also ensure that your jewelry always appears to be new-looking. However, keep in mind that during regular use, you should take off your jewelry before you swim or start cleaning up. 

 

CLEAN WITH SOAP AND WATER

 

 Dullness is another sign that your jewelry is in dire need of cleaning and polishing. This applies mostly to pieces of jewelry made of silver. To wash your pieces, it is advised that you use a little dish soap and warm water. Submerge the jewelry in the solution for a few minutes and the next step will be to clean all the pieces individually using a soft cloth or a toothbrush with soft bristles to clean. Wash with plain water clear all the soap residues and dry it with a piece of material that is free of fuzz and hair. Once that has been completed, you can set aside your pieces for proper drying.

 

AVOID HARSH CHEMICALS

 

Silver is fragile to the chemicals used in items such as perfumes, lotion, and hairsprays. Such chemicals can react with the material and cause the silver to get a rusty color and look unhealthy. You can make it a rule to wear your jewelry after you have used cosmetics or have showers. When engaging in house cleaning activities, you need to take off your silver ornaments as they come in contact with some cleaning materials. 

 

POLISH REGULARLY

 

Cleaning your silver jewelry often can also enhance its brightness to its original state or even a much brighter look. Avoid using any general cleaning cloth or fabric and instead; make sure to use a silver polishing cloth. These cloths contain certain chemicals that clean tarnishes without harming the items’ surface in any way. For the extra shine of the jewelry, wipe the jewelry in straight up and down strokes so you can avoid creating any kind of scratches on the surface.

 

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING

 

For rather damaged silver, you may use a mixture of baking soda and water to clean it. Take a baking soda and dilute it with water, an equal ratio of 3:1 which will create a paste. Rub this paste on the jewelry using a soft cloth and then use your finger to circularly rub the tarnished part. Afterward, wash it with warm water and then pat it dry with a piece of clean, soft fabric. This method should be used less frequently because it can be harsh on silver.

 

USE BAKING SODA

 

One of the easiest natural ways to clean silver is with aluminum foil and baking soda. Place that foil in a bowl placing the shiny and blank side upwards. Take your silver jewelry and put it on the foil; then ensure that you spread baking soda on it. To add boiling water over the jewelry make sure that the jewelry is immersed in the water. 

The reaction between the foil piece and baking soda shall help in raising the tarnish from the piece of silver. Allow it to stand for a few minutes and with clean water, preferably warm water, rinse the jewelry and then pat dry with a cloth. This method is good though care should be taken, it is rather rough of the silver jewelry you get and should not be administered often. 

 

AVOID EXPOSURE TO SULFUR AND HUMIDITY

 

Silver is an element that tarnishes more due to the presence of sulfur and humidity characteristics. Do not use silver jewelry in places where there is high Sulfur for example in hot water springs or near goods made from rubber or latex for they emit Sulfur compounds. However, it is advised to not wear your jewelry near water such as in the bathroom or when engaged in intensive exercise. While the jewelry is not in use, keep it in a clean, dry environment especially if it is silver-based and it is recommended that you put anti-tarnish strips on the storage box. 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

 

 Q1. How often should I clean my silver jewelry? 

If you want to clean your silver jewelry, then make sure you clean it at least once a month. This way you will be able to maintain the shine and reduce the tarnishing and build-up on the surface. 

Q2. Can I wear silver jewelry in the shower? 

While it can be safe to wear silver in the shower, it is better for you to take it off. The chemicals in the soap and shampoo can tarnish and dull the silver jewelry with time. 

 

CONCLUSION 

 

Knowing how to take care of your silver jewelry doesn’t have to be a difficult task if you follow the right steps as they have been mentioned above. And if you’re looking for some amazing pieces then you can check out the collection that is available at Diamonds of London.