How to care for silver and gold plated/filled jewelry?
Sterling Silver
The universal fineness mark for sterling silver is “.925” which is stamped inside the item for identification as sterling silver. Sterling silver is a beautiful metal that will last for generations with proper care.
Why causes sterling silver to tarnish?
Tarnish is usually caused by the contact of the sterling silver to gasses in the air and content particles acids, possible oxidation reaction upon contact with skin.
How can I prevent my sterling silver from tarnishing?
Many people are concerned about their sterling silver tarnishing, but if you use it every day, it will actually tarnish less. Frequent use removes the need for polishing. Over time, your sterling items will develop a warm, rich tone called a “patina”. A slightly darker shading (oxidation) in the design will develop and enhance the definition of the pattern
Gold plated jewellery,
usually called -Gold Vermeil ,if it's gold plated over silver 925, will rub off in time. Even if you're dealing with a thick plating, the interaction of the metal with the skin and perspiration will cause it to fade in time. You can help maintain it by not wearing it while working out, swimming etc. Unfortunately, it is a bit harder to clean because any harsh cleansers, and even toothpaste will add to the tarnish process, and continue to strip the gold plating. As a rule of thumb, simply wipe with a soft cloth before storing. Make sure you always store in soft cloth bag or zip lock away from heat, air and humidity and that will also make it last longer.
How to Clean Sterling Silver?
The best jewelry cleaner in the world, including precious stones, is simply denture cleaner tablets like “Steradent”. Drop a tablet in warm water with whatever jewels and metals you want cleaned and let the tablet do the hard work.
A few minutes later (up to 30 min soaking) just rinse it all off and you won't believe how clean and sparkling it all is. One small box of tablets will last you for years and you will always them on hand whenever you want to clean your sterling silver jewelry.
!!!Sterling Silver- can be cleaned only: tools especially developed for this!!!
!!!Avoid lemon, contain acids that will stain the silver. scented detergents and those containing chloride. They can be harmful to the silver.
Do not soak your silver overnight. Prolonged immersion in water may damage the metal. Extreme temperatures may loosen hollow-handled pieces.
What is the best way to polish my sterling silver?
Polish with a soft cloth with any brand name for a silver polish, following directions. Dips are not recommended; they will remove the oxidation from intricate designs in the patterns.
Never use toothpaste!!!
How should I store my sterling silver ?
Your silver should be stored in an airtight chest,
in bags made of tarnish resistant cloth as exposure to air will accelerate tarnishing.
Keep silver away from dampness and direct sunlight. Do not wrap in plastic, newspaper or foil or bind with rubber bands.
♥I hope this will give longer life to your silver and gold-plated jewelry!♥
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