A Guide To Jewelry Care & Maintenance - Silver Jewellery Design

Silver is known to be one of the earliest metals known to humankind since 6000 years ago. It was first used to make coins 2600 years ago and is also famous for its role in Britannia silver standard bullion coins. With so many applications, it was only natural that silver proved to be prized jewelry for its stunning shine, resilience, and ease of crafting.

However, its transformation into sterling silver, a blend with other metals, marked a significant innovation. This alloy (combination of metals) has inspired centuries of intricate jewelry craftsmanship across diverse cultures and traditions worldwide.

But what exactly is sterling silver jewellery, and what makes it so versatile? And most importantly, how to ensure the everlasting appeal of these silver jewellery designs? Let's delve into its story.

Exploring Silver Jewelry Types

Silver jewelry has been a part of many ancient cultures across the globe. Both men and women of different class sections have adorned these precious ornaments for their aesthetics. For that reason, different types of silver jewelry are made in the market for various reasons.

• To begin with, fine silver is softer and more flexible than sterling silver. Due to this reason, silver is valued by many for its purity over durability. The pliability factor in pure silver jewelry is the reason why it requires utmost care when handling.
• On the other hand, sterling silver jewelry offers durability, luster, and can be molded into intricate designs. Though sterling silver is durable, it is still susceptible to tarnishing. Therefore, you should practice jewelry care every now and then.
• Lastly, sliver-plated jewelry can have a base metal coated with a thin layer of silver. In this case, you have to be extremely careful while handling to avoid tarnishing.

Daily Care Tips

Regular cleaning of your sterling silver jewellery can save it from daily wear and tear and add more years to its usability. For that, consider following the steps below to know the how-tos of jewelry care and maintenance:

Cleaning Routines for Everyday Wear

With proper jewelry maintenance, you can retain its radiance and prevent it from tarnishing by using a soft cloth for regular cleaning. A dedicated silver polishing cloth gently wipes away dirt and oils after each wear. Similarly, a mild cleanser can also be used to clean the metal surface thoroughly. Additionally, thoroughly drying your jewelry after rinsing can prevent water spots.

Avoid harsh chemicals and solutions that can scratch or damage the silver surface. In case your jewelry is heavily tarnished, consider using a silver polish or dip recommended for silver cleaning.

Storing Silver Jewelry Properly

The manufacturers often suggest storing your sterling silver properly to prevent tarnishing and scratches. You can store each silver jewellery design separately in a cool, dry place. To boot, make sure you store them away from direct sunlight and moisture. You can use a jewelry box with compartments or a bag with separate pouches to organize your metal pieces.

Apart from that, silica gel packets offer a highly effective way to keep your silver jewellery moisture-free. It’s equally important to keep a check on your stored jewelry to ensure it remains clean and tarnish-free. All it takes is these simple jewelry maintenance tips and your silver jewelry will continue to sparkle and dazzle for years.

Special Jewelry Care & Maintenance Instructions

Silver jewelry adorned with gemstones or intricate designs deserves special care to maintain its beauty and durability. About that, you can

• use a soft cloth or brush with mild soap to gently clean your silver jewelry with gemstone settings.
• use lukewarm water to rinse and then thoroughly pat dry the sterling silver jewellery before storing it.

Professional Maintenance

Over time, silver can develop tough tarnishes and scratches that need special techniques and tools to restore its original state. This is where professional cleaning and polishing comes to the rescue. You can get your sterling silver jewelry restored by a trusted jeweler to ensure your jewelry comes back looking as good as new.

FAQ's

How to keep sterling silver shiny?

The best way to keep your sterling silver shining is through regular jewelry care and maintenance care of it. So, regular cleaning is the way to keep it shiny and durable for years.

Why is my silver turning black?

Silver turns black when exposed to air for extended hours. To avoid that, make sure to store your silver jewelry in an air-tight container.

Can I wear 925 silver daily?

You sure can. The best thing about sterling silver jewellery is that it’s durable and suitable for daily wear.