Sterling Silver Jewellery Care

Why Do We Use Sterling Silver?

One of the most crucial characteristics to a long-term engagement ring or wedding band is that it needs to be resizeable. This essentially leaves only three options - Sterling Silver, White Gold and Platinum. Because White Gold and Platinum are incredibly expensive, we chose to use Sterling Silver in our rings.

How to Care for a Sterling Silver Ring

Sterling silver is a beautiful yet delicate metal that can tarnish over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and chemicals. Tarnishing occurs when silver reacts with sulfur-containing compounds, leading to a dull, dark or discoloured layer on the surface. This is normal, but can be prevented. A tarnished layer can also be removed with the right cleaning. With proper care, you can keep your sterling silver ring looking its best.

Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, including copper. Pure, 100% silver is far too soft to be used in jewellery. The copper component makes it more durable and usable in jewellery, but also more prone to tarnishing when exposed to air, humidity, and chemicals like perfumes and lotions (particularly sources of Sulphur).

How to Prevent Tarnishing

  • Wear It Often: Natural oils from your skin can help prevent tarnish. Washing your ring every day will prevent this.

  • Store Properly: Keep your ring in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish pouch when not in use.

  • Avoid Chemicals: Remove your ring before applying lotions, perfumes, or using cleaning products. Do not wash your ring with household soaps, as these contain Sulphur and will dramatically increase the rate of tarnishing. Avoid wearing your ring while swimming in salt water or chlorinated pools.

  • Keep It Dry: Moisture speeds up tarnishing, so dry your ring thoroughly after washing your hands or exposure to water.

How to Remove Tarnish

  • Polishing Cloth: Use a soft silver polishing cloth to buff away light tarnish.

  • Correct cleaning products: While polishing, use a silver polishing cream such as Silvo or Connoisseurs Silver Jewellery Cleaner. A mild, sulphur-free soap can be used, but will not be as effective.

  • Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, rub it onto the ring, then rinse and dry.

  • Aluminium Foil Method: Line a bowl with aluminium foil, add baking soda and hot water, and soak your ring for a few minutes before rinsing and drying.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your sterling silver ring looking brilliant and tarnish-free for years to come. Do not be distressed if your ring does tarnish, as this can be removed.