How to Care for Your Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with copper for strength. Air and skin oils slowly oxidise it, which darkens the surface. Some people like that patina. If you don't, a few habits help.

Everyday habits

Take your jewelry off before you swim, shower or work out. Chlorine and sweat speed up tarnish. Put it on after perfume and lotion, not before.

Storage

Store each piece in its own soft pouch, somewhere dry. Anti-tarnish strips in the box also help.

Cleaning

For light tarnish, a silver polishing cloth is all you need. Avoid abrasive pastes on oxidised engraving, because they remove the dark detail that makes the design stand out.