subject: Sterling Silver Jewellery : Affordability and Care [print this page] Sterling Silver Jewellery : Affordability and Care
Since ancient times, silver has been used to make jewellery. More silver has been mined and used since the late 1700's than in all prior centuries. Pure silver is soft to create durable jewellery, so it's mixed with other metals to enhance performance. One popular silver mixture is known as sterling silver. Sterling silver jewellery is beautiful and affordable. It is usually within the budget of most of the individuals. No wonder as Gold prices are sky-rocketing, silver is emerging as the next most desirable metal.
The Care Factor :
To ensure longevity and pristine condition, proper care is required to be taken in cleaning and maintenance of such Jewellery. Some of the instruction on how to care for Sterling Silver Jewellery, are mentioned below:
* Sterling silver jewellery contains copper, which adds hardness to silver. It also creates a tendency for silver jewellery to tarnish. Tarnish is a darkening that occurs when this metal reacts with every day substances. Therefore, all the possible efforts should be made to avoid exposing silver to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, cosmetics, hair spray and perfume.
* While cleaning it, choose a phosphate-free detergent. Also, choose a low abrasive cleaner, designed for cleaning which can aid in removing tarnish. Jewellery experts advise against using toothpaste to clean sterling silver as it can be too abrasive and leave dull scratches
* For a quick cleaning, wash your jewellery periodically with mild dish soap and warm water to prevent tarnishing. Make sure to rinse the jewellery well and dry completely with a soft cloth before storing.
*If worn continuously, such jewellery will probably develop a patina that adds to the jewellery's beauty. This patina may also include some darkened areas. Some prefer this look for their jewellery. Though there are many those who prefer a brighter look as well. One can use polish to restore one's sterling silver jewellery to its original shiny look. An occasional polishing will also protect silver from getting tarnished.
Proper Storage :
* Most of the people store their jewelley in open air and humidity for extended periods of time which can cause it to tarnish quickly. Tarnish appears as a golden hue on your sterling silver which quickly turns to black leaving it ugly and dirty.
* To keep tarnish to a minimum it is advised that you store your jewellery pieces in cotton when not wearing them.
* You can also store your sterling silver jewellery in an air-tight protective bag made of tarnish proof cloth or you can use a plastic zip lock bag made of Mylar or polyethylene.
* Never use polyvinyl plastic bags
* Store your jewellery in right place not in loose drawer or jewellery box, so that it isn't rubbing up against other articles.
* Avoid storing your sterling silver jewellery directly on wood surfaces, because wood usually contains acids that can mar the finish.
* Also, avoid storing such jewellery with other metals, like pennies, and rubber, these too cause tarnish and damage.
PS : To know more please click on Sterling Silver Jewellery
