CARE GUIDE
STERLING SILVER
STERLING SILVER JEWELRY CARE
Our collection is crafted from .925 Tiffany grade sterling silver, the quintessential industry benchmark in the United States and esteemed markets worldwide. This premium material boasts 92.5% pure silver, renowned for its substantial durability, which is ideal for daily wear and for pieces that are designed to last for generations. When you select from our sterling silver range, you're not just choosing high-quality jewelry; you're investing in a legacy of sustainable elegance.
DAY-TO-TO DAY WEAR
- Dryness is Key: Avoid letting your sterling silver come into contact with water for prolonged periods. Always remove it before bathing, swimming, or exercising to prevent tarnishing.
- Avoid Chemicals: Keep your jewelry away from chemicals such as perfume, hairspray, lotions, and cleaning products. Apply these products before you put on your jewelry.
- Gentle Touch: Handle your sterling silver jewelry with care to avoid any deformation or damage to intricate designs.
- Professional Care: For deep cleaning or repair, take your silver jewelry to a professional jeweler.
STORING STERLING SILVER JEWELRY
- Individual Storage: Store your sterling silver pieces individually, preferably in soft pouches or lined jewelry boxes to avoid scratches.
- Air Tight, Cool, and Dry: Keep jewelry in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag to minimize exposure to air. Place silica gel packets in the storage area to absorb excess moisture.
- Tarnish-Preventive Materials: Use anti-tarnish strips or cloths in your storage area to absorb sulfides in the air that cause tarnish.
- Limit Light Exposure: Store your silver in a dark place, away from direct sunlight, which can cause silver to tarnish more quickly.
CLEANING STERLING SILVER JEWELRY
- Gentle Polishing: Use a special silver cloth for a quick polish to maintain shine and remove light tarnish.
- Mild Soap Solution: For a deeper clean, wash with a mild dishwashing soap and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Soft Brushing: Use a soft-bristle brush, like a baby toothbrush, to gently scrub intricate details.
- Dry Completely: Ensure all jewelry pieces are completely dry before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does sterling silver tarnish?
Sterling silver can develop tarnish upon exposure to elements like salt-laden air, chlorine, sulfur compounds, high humidity, sweat, beauty products, household bleach, and various potent chemicals.
The rate at which sterling silver tarnishes can depend on several factors, including the humidity, air pollution levels, and the skin's pH of the person wearing it. Proper storage and regular cleaning can help slow down the tarnishing process and maintain the metal's lustrous appearance.
How should I store my silver jewelry?
For optimal preservation, store your silver individually in anti-tarnish cloth within airtight containers, situated in cool, dry places away from rubber and wool, which may expedite tarnishing. Including silica gel packs and anti-tarnish strips can further ward off tarnish. Remember, frequent wearing also helps keep silver polished by the oils in your skin.
Can I wear sterling silver jewelry all the time?
Yes, you can, but exposure to harsh chemicals, water, and sweat can cause it to tarnish more quickly. It's best to remove it during activities that could expose it to potentially damaging substances.
Can sterling silver get wet?
Sterling silver can get wet, but avoiding prolonged contact with water, especially chlorinated or salty water is advisable as this can accelerate tarnishing.
It's best to remove sterling silver before swimming due to the potential harm from chlorine and salt, which can cause corrosion and tarnish.
What should I do if my sterling silver jewelry has tarnished?
You can clean lightly tarnished silver with a special silver cloth or a silver cleaner. For heavily tarnished pieces, you might need professional cleaning.
Is it normal for sterling silver to scratch?
Yes, sterling silver is a relatively soft metal and can scratch. Use care when wearing and storing your jewelry to minimize this.