How to clean silver jewelry? Effective ways to care for silver!

Date: 28/04/2024 | Reading time: 9 minutes | Views: 14017

Silver jewelry is a perfect option when you want to surprise someone with a special gift or when you want to treat yourself to a unique accessory. However, what should you know about silver and how to maintain it, and how can you protect your silver jewelry for as long as possible? Find the answers to these questions in the following guide we've prepared for you.

Why Does Silver Jewelry Tarnish?

If you've ever closely examined silver jewelry, you've likely noticed a stamp or a number on it, certifying the quality of the alloy. The number "925" represents the purity level of silver, meaning that 92.5% of the material is pure silver, while the rest of the alloy is composed of other materials.

Because it's not 100% pure silver, you'll notice that silver jewelry tends to tarnish when exposed to air, comes into contact with the body's pH, or when touched by seawater or various creams and lotions used for skincare.

Are There Silver Jewelry Pieces That Don't Tarnish?

Silver jewelry typically tarnishes over time, but certain types of silver jewelry, made through electroplating, are protected from oxidation. This means that the jewelry is plated or coated with a material that doesn't react in the presence of moisture.

Are New Silver Jewelry Pieces Already Tarnished?

Some types of jewelry are made from blackened silver, a material with the appearance of oxidized silver, which is particularly beautiful and special. Such jewelry seems to carry the patina of time and pairs perfectly with both contemporary and classic or vintage styles.

If you want to create a stylistic combination, you can choose a blackened silver chain to match a light-colored blazer and a dark top with a medium neckline. You can also opt for a chain with an Onyx or Howlite stone if you want to enjoy a more distinctive look for your jewelry.

Of course, you can choose any type of pre-oxidized jewelry, as there are new rings, earrings, and even bracelets that are already oxidized.

Methods to Prevent Silver Tarnishing

If you want to prevent your silver jewelry from tarnishing, it's essential to keep a few key points in mind. The most important thing is to ensure that your jewelry is kept away from factors that could damage it, so here are the measures you should take:

Reduce Ambient Humidity

Humidity plays a significant role in the oxidation process, so instead of letting your jewelry be directly exposed to moisture, you should store it in special pouches or dedicated jewelry boxes.

Remove Jewelry When Showering or Doing Household Chores

Substances used during cleaning or showering can affect silver jewelry, causing it to darken. It's recommended to remove them during such activities, protecting them from harsh chemicals. It's also important to remove rings when cooking, as substances you handle can affect the metal, and dirt and bacteria can accumulate on the jewelry's surface.

Apply Lotions and Creams Before Wearing Jewelry

Daily skincare products, including perfumes, contain substances that can quickly activate silver tarnishing. Although you might be tempted to put on your jewelry before applying creams or perfume, it's advisable to hydrate your skin first and then put on the jewelry.

Wear Your Jewelry

Just as a house tends to deteriorate faster when uninhabited, jewelry tends to tarnish more quickly when not worn. This is because, when used, they gradually clean themselves through wear, whereas when left unworn, they simply tarnish due to exposure to air.

Therefore, it's recommended to wear your jewelry without forgetting about them for too long, as this offers partial protection against deterioration.

When and How Often Should You Clean Silver Jewelry?

Jewelry should be cleaned whenever you notice they begin to tarnish. Black spots on the surface are a clear indicator that they need cleaning.

Additionally, it's advisable to clean your jewelry with soap and water at least once a week to remove bacteria and germs from their surface.

Methods and Solutions for Cleaning Silver Jewelry

There are several methods you can use to clean silver jewelry, each offering truly beneficial results. Here are some of them:

1. Soap and Water
   Both soap and water are gentle on the alloy, helping to protect your jewelry. Just add soap to a bowl of lukewarm water and let the jewelry soak for about 30 minutes. Afterward, wash and dry them gently.
2. Vinegar and Water
   Similarly, you can clean silver jewelry with vinegar diluted in warm water, as vinegar eliminates bacteria and dissolves dirt.
3. Toothpaste
   One of the most well-known methods for cleaning silver involves using toothpaste. It gently cleans and removes black spots caused by oxidation. You can use a soft brush or cloth to gently rub the jewelry's surface, and you'll see the black spots come off easily. Afterward, rinse with lukewarm water and dry with a towel.
4. Other cleaning methods include using lemon for its acidity, aluminum foil, starch, and ammonia. You can also mix ingredients, such as in the case of a chemical reaction formed by combining aluminum foil, baking soda, and salt. Simply line a bowl with aluminum foil, place the jewelry inside, and pour boiling water over them. Add two teaspoons of salt and two of baking soda. Stir gently for a few minutes, then remove the jewelry, which will look as good as new.

Are Homemade Solutions Recommended for Cleaning Silver Jewelry?

Homemade solutions such as olive oil, lemon, or aluminum foil can be safely used for cleaning silver jewelry. The key is to be careful with how you clean them and the quantities you use. Always use a soft brush for cleaning to avoid scratching the jewelry’s surface.

Solutions You Should NOT Use to Clean Silver Jewelry

While some household products are safe, you should know that not all are suitable for cleaning silver. For example, chlorine and alcohol should not be used on silver jewelry, as they can irreversibly damage the metal by staining it.

Cleaning Silver Jewelry with Black Spots

If your jewelry already has black spots, you can either take it to a jeweler for professional cleaning or ensure that the jewelry indeed has the purity level indicated by the stamp.

If you prefer to clean them at home, here are a few options:

• Soak them in warm vinegar for a few minutes and then wipe them with a cloth.
• Wrap the jewelry in aluminum foil and soak it in hot water for about 10 minutes.
• Clean with a homemade ammonia paste.

Recommended Methods for Cleaning Silver Jewelry

It's important to note that cleaning silver jewelry at home can sometimes cause damage, especially if the process isn't done correctly. Jewelry can contain stones or have different reactions depending on the material.

To preserve the longevity of your jewelry, consider using recommended cleaning methods, such as soaking, gentle brushing, and rinsing with soap and water, using special silver cleaning cloths, or opting for professional cleaning.

Useful Tips for Maintaining Silver Jewelry

If you want to protect your jewelry, keep these maintenance tips in mind:

• Wear your jewelry carefully and let them complement your personality.
• Don’t expose your jewelry to work processes (food preparation, cleaning with harsh chemicals, etc.), as this speeds up deterioration. Remove them when cooking, showering, or applying lotions and creams.
• Regularly clean your jewelry to remove dirt and oxidation spots. Use a silver cleaning solution to extend their lifespan.

Silver, like gold, is highly valued in jewelry making today. Its durability and resistance, combined with the beauty of finished products, ensure that silver will continue to be a popular material for jewelry in the future.

If you have cherished jewelry or are thinking of buying new pieces for yourself or loved ones, remember that proper cleaning can significantly extend their lifespan.