925 Sterling Silver Care Guide

How to protect your 925 sterling silver from tarnish

92.5% pure silver + 7.5% copper (for durability) – prone to tarnish but easy to maintain with proper care.

Key Care Tips by Scenario

• Daily Wear: Remove before showering, swimming, or applying perfume/lotion (products accelerate tarnish).

• Sports: Never wear during workouts – sweat is high in sulfur, which causes rapid tarnishing; friction can scratch settings.

• Travel: Store in anti-tarnish bags (included) with silica gel packets; keep in a cool, dry part of your luggage (avoid bathroom areas). Wipe with a polishing cloth before packing to remove surface oils.

How to clean 925 sterling silver jewelry

• Light tarnish: Rub with a silver polishing cloth (do not wash the cloth – it collects tarnish).

• Heavy tarnish: Line a bowl with aluminum foil (shiny side up), mix 1 cup warm water + 1 tbsp baking soda + 1 tsp salt. Soak for 5-10 minutes, rinse, and dry immediately.

• Note: Avoid abrasive cleaners or ammonia – they scratch silver.

How to store 925 sterling silver jewelry

Keep in airtight containers (ziplock bags work!) with anti-tarnish strips. Store separately to prevent scratching; keep in a cool, dry place (away from kitchens/bathrooms). Wear often – skin oils slow tarnish!

Gemstone Setting Care

• For porous gems (opal, turquoise): Never soak – wipe gently with a damp cloth to avoid tarnish buildup around settings.

• For pearl/shell jewelry: Avoid polishing cloths – wipe with a soft, dry cloth; tarnish around settings can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in mild soapy water.

• Avoid getting cleaning solutions on glued gems (e.g., resin settings) – it can weaken the bond.

Why does my sterling silver tarnish so quickly?

Tarnish is caused by sulfur (in air, sweat, foods like onions). Humidity and beauty products speed it up – regular cleaning and proper storage slow tarnishing.