
Does 925 Sterling Silver Jewelry Tarnish?
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Sterling silver is an increasingly popular choice among our customers, who are primarily looking for durable, beautiful, and timeless jewelry. It's a common misconception that 925 sterling silver tarnishes easily. In reality, pure silver does not tarnish and, with proper care, will retain its shine for a lifetime.
Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?
925 sterling silver consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. While the added metals can react with sulfur and moisture in the air, leading to surface dullness, high-quality sterling silver is resistant to tarnishing when properly maintained.
What Causes Surface Dullness on Silver?
Certain environmental factors can affect the appearance of sterling silver, such as:
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Air Exposure: Prolonged exposure to humid conditions can cause minor oxidation.
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Chemicals: Contact with perfumes, lotions, or cleaning agents may leave a residue.
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Water & Sweat: Saltwater and chlorine can affect the outer layer of silver over time.
925 Sterling Silver Gold Plated
Gold-plated 925 sterling silver offers the best of both worlds: the durability of sterling silver and the luxurious appearance of gold. A thin layer of gold is applied over the sterling silver base, giving it a radiant finish. While gold plating can help protect against tarnishing, it may wear off over time with frequent use. To maintain gold-plated sterling silver, avoid exposing it to water, chemicals, and abrasives, and gently clean it with a soft cloth to preserve its shine. All of our jewelry from our new Sunkissed collection comes with an anti-tarnish pouch to store your findings.
How to Keep Sterling Silver Looking New
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Store Properly: Keep silver in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish pouch when not in use.
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Wear Regularly: Regular use prevents oxidation and keeps silver lustrous.
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Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Remove jewelry before applying beauty products or using cleaning agents.
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Clean Gently: Use a soft polishing cloth or mild soap solution to keep silver bright.
How to Restore Silver’s Shine
If your silver looks dull, simple care can restore its brilliance:
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Polishing Cloth: A silver polishing cloth
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easily removes minor dullness.
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Mild Soap & Water: A gentle wash can clean off residue and restore shine.
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Baking Soda and Water Paste: A natural cleaning solution for light maintenance.
925 sterling silver jewelry does not truly tarnish, but external factors may affect its appearance. With proper storage, regular wear, and simple cleaning, your silver jewelry will stay brilliant for years.
Do you have any favorite silver care tips? Share them in the comments below!