subject: How To Care For Your Silver Jewellery [print this page] It is so important that jewellery is looked after in the right way. From diamond rings to gold charms each type of metal has preferable methods to keep it clean and in optimal condition. Silver is no different. Here are the top tips for keeping your silver jewellery as new.
Cleaning methods
To keep silver clean, the best method is to use a silver cloth which is specifically designed for cleaning silver jewellery. It has two parts to it. One part is for cleaning and the other for polishing. After using one, you'll find your silver jewellery will come up sparking.
Beware of other methods to clean your silver. Often people are told to use toothpaste and a toothbrush but this is abrasive and can scratch your jewellery.
Silver jewellery often develops a charming patina finish, which is a glowing appearance of light and dark areas. This can look quite striking. However if you prefer your silver to look shiny and bright, this can easy be altered by using a polishing cloth.
Care tips
Tarnish is the black or dull greyish coating you may see appear on your jewellery. This is caused by the process of oxidation. Hair products, body lotions and fragrances can cause this to happen to your silver jewellery.
The best way to prevent this from happening is to always make sure that you do not put on any jewellery until your lotion and fragrance have soaked into your skin. Similarly, only put your jewellery on once you have finished using all of the hair product you want to use as this too can have an effect on your silver.
A good habit to get into is to get a soft cloth and wipe your silver necklaces, rings and bracelets before you put them on each time. It only takes a few seconds yet it will save you time in the long run as the build up of tarnish can be stopped or heavily decreased.
Storage
Light and air can also cause tarnish to your silver jewellery so when you are storing it make sure that it is away from sunlight and the container in which your jewellery is in is air-tight. Cloth bags and even zip-lock bags are options for storing your silver jewellery. It is also important that silver jewellery is kept away from other stones and rings which may cause scratches, so if you have a jewellery box, you should have one that has a number of compartments for different jewellery pieces.
A further measure to prevent tarnish which you can do is place no-tarnish strips or chalk in the storage box which will absorb the substances in the air that will cause corrosion. If you have decided to do this make sure you change the pieces every two to three months.
Jewellery is something we all treasure and want to have for years to come. I hope our tips have explained some helpful hints on how to keep your silver jewellery in top condition.
