1. Store it properly:
When not in use, store your sterling silver jewellery in a cool, dry place, preferably in a jewellery box or pouch. This will prevent tarnishing and discoloration caused by exposure to air and moisture.
Invest in a jewellery box or organizer to keep your sterling silver jewellery organized and protected when not in use. This will also make it easier to find your favourite pieces in a hurry.
Jewellery organiser by Muji. Click here to see more on their website.
Jewellery shown:
- Myeong-Ok Pearl Necklace
- Mi-Sun 18K Gold Plated Earrings
- Jia 18K Gold Plated Earrings
- Gong-ju 18K Rose Gold Plated Earrings
- Wang-Bi 18K Rose Gold Plated Earrings
2. Avoid exposure to chemicals:
Apply perfume, hairspray, and other beauty products before putting on your jewellery to avoid chemical exposure.
Avoid exposing your sterling silver jewellery to household cleaning products, such as bleach or ammonia as these can discolour your jewellery.
When performing household chores, remove any jewellery that could have direct contact with household cleaners before use or wear rubber gloves to protect them.
3. Take off your sterling silver jewellery before swimming, showering, or exercising.
Exposure to sweat, chlorine, and saltwater can cause tarnishing and discoloration.
Aside from the potential risk of losing jewellery down the drain when showering, jewellery items can get gummed up by residues from shampoos, conditioners and soaps. This can cause your jewellery to look less lustrous due to the build-up. If you must keep on pieces when showering, please make sure to regularly give them a thorough clean.
If you are a water lover and intend to go for a swim, it is best practice to remove all jewellery beforehand. Chlorine in pools can damage and discolour silver and many gemstones. Gold is not safe from chlorine either as the chemicals could potentially corrode the metals it is alloyed with. Saltwater from the sea can erode soldered parts in metal jewellery and even dull diamonds which are known to be chemically inert.
Jewellery containing pearls or opals should avoid encountering water and other chemicals as these can permanently damage the stones.
4. Handle with care:
Be gentle when handling your sterling silver jewellery, as it is a relatively soft metal that can scratch or dent easily.
Use a soft touch and avoid pulling or tugging on chains, clasps, or other components.
5. Remove your jewellery before sleeping:
This is to help prevent your jewellery from being damaged due to friction whilst sleeping.
6. Clean and polish your jewellery regularly as this will help remove any tarnish and keep sterling silver looking shiny.
Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean your jewellery as they can scratch the surface.
You can also use a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth to clean your sterling silver jewellery.
Town Talk's Silver Polishing cloth is a good option. Click here to see more.
Or another great alternative is the Connoisseurs Jewellery Wipes. Click here to see more.
7. Use a silver polishing solution if your jewellery is particularly tarnished:
Use a specialized silver polishing cloth to remove dirt and oils. Make sure to read and follow the instructions carefully.
Connoisseurs Delicate Jewellery Cleaner for jewellery. Click here to see more.
If you would like to see more ways of cleaning your jewellery, we have various methods outlined in our article 'How to Clean Your Jewellery'.
8. Apply a thin coat of protective wax or lacquer to your silver jewellery to help prevent tarnishing and discoloration.
Always purchase from reputable sellers to avoid buying wax or lacquer which may cause more damage than protection.
9. Wear it often:
Contrary to belief, wearing your sterling silver jewellery regularly can help keep it looking new as the natural oils in your skin can help prevent tarnishing.
Wear your jewellery often whenever you are not exercising, swimming, showering or undertaking any kind of activity that involves chemicals.
10. Have it professionally cleaned:
Take your jewellery to a professional jeweller for cleaning and maintenance if it becomes heavily tarnished or damaged. They have the expertise and tools needed to restore your jewellery to its original condition and remove any deep-seated tarnish.
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More Articles:
Top 10 Tips to Keeping Sterling Silver Jewellery in its Best Condition
Top 10 Tips for Safely Buying Jewellery Online
DIY Cleaning Sterling Silver Jewellery at Home
How to Clean Your Jewellery
What is Sterling Silver? The Uses of Sterling Silver in Jewellery