Journal

Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with other metals for strength, which makes it durable enough for everyday wear but also naturally prone to tarnishing — a normal chemical reaction, not a sign of poor quality. A little regular care keeps it bright for years.Why silver tarnishesTarnish happens when silver reacts with sulfur compounds in the air, and it speeds up around humidity, salty air, chlorine, perfume, lotion, and household chemicals like bleach. Interestingly, silver that's worn often can actually tarnish more slowly than silver left untouched in a drawer — the natural oils on skin form a light protective barrier.How to wear itMake silver the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off. Perfume, hairspray, and lotion should go on first and be given a moment to dry or absorb before jewellery touches skin. Take rings and bracelets off before swimming, showering, cleaning, or exercising — chlorine and sweat are two of the fastest ways to dull silver.How to clean itFor light tarnish, a soft polishing cloth is usually enough — gently buff the surface until the shine returns. For a deeper clean, wash with a few drops of mild, fragrance-free dish soap in warm water and a soft-bristle brush (an old, soft toothbrush works well for detail), then rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a soft cloth before storing. Avoid toothpaste, baking soda, or anything abrasive — these can scratch the surface, especially on pieces with a polished or plated finish.How to store itStore silver somewhere cool, dry, and dark — a jewellery box or a drawer, not an open dish exposed to air. Keep pieces in individual pouches or an anti-tarnish cloth bag so they don't scratch against each other, and if you're in a humid climate, a small silica gel packet in the storage box helps absorb moisture. Ziploc-style airtight bags work well for pieces you wear rarely.Gold-plated sterling silverMany of our pieces are gold-plated over sterling silver rather than solid gold, which means the same care rules apply, with one addition: avoid abrasive cloths and polishes made for solid gold, as they can wear through the plating over time. A soft, dry cloth after each wear and the storage habits above will keep the plating looking new for far longer.When to have it professionally cleanedIf a piece has heavy tarnish that a polishing cloth won't shift, or if it has gemstones set in a way you're not confident cleaning around, a jeweller can do it safely without risking the setting. That's always a safer bet than a harsh home remedy on a piece you love.