No one wants to see their treasured sterling silver jewelry lose its luster and succumb to tarnish, which can often seem inevitable over time. Sterling silver, an alloy made up of 92.5 percent pure silver and 7.5 percent other metals like copper, is a popular choice for jewelry making due to its durability, flexibility, and relatively low cost.
Caring for sterling silver is actually quite simple, but it does face the common issue of tarnishing, especially when stored improperly. Jewelry expert Blake Asaad from the renowned jeweler GOODSTONE has shared some valuable insights on the simple approach needed to keep the metal’s shine. He advises, “You can keep silver jewelry that you wear daily sparkling by regularly polishing it with a soft cloth.”
For those special pieces that are not worn every day and are kept in storage, Blake recommends a single yet highly effective technique to ensure your silver remains pristine. He recommends, “My top tip for preventing your precious sterling silver jewelry from tarnishing is to store it inside an airtight bag wherever you keep your jewelry, to protect it from air and moisture. Air moisture can quickly lead to tarnishing.” Blake suggests using zip-lock bags or any airtight container, which many of us have in our kitchens, to store each piece of silver separately to prevent scratching or tangling.
To further prevent tarnishing, Blake also suggests adding anti-tarnish strips to the airtight storage bag. He explains, “You can also include silica gel or activated charcoal to absorb moisture, or a packet of desiccant crystals.” “I also recommend wrapping your sterling silver items in dry, acid-free tissue paper before storing them in airtight containers. The acid in regular paper can cause your silver jewelry to tarnish and lose its shine,” he added. Blake concludes by saying, “Following this sterling silver anti-tarnishing tip is inexpensive and can help preserve your jewelry or other precious silver items for a long time, even turning them into priceless heirlooms for future generations. By using this method, your silver will continue to look stunning for years to come.”
Remember, taking proper care of your sterling silver jewelry by following these simple storage tips can help prevent tarnishing and keep your pieces sparkling for a long time to come. So, next time you reach for your favorite silver necklace or ring, you can be sure it will still shine brightly.