Does Sterling Silver Tarnish and How to Prevent It

Sterling Silver has always been a classy, sophisticated metal for jewellery. But the rise of silver jewellery has risen in recent years. People in India and Andhra Pradesh have started to buy silver jewellery of all kinds, including daily wear pieces, trendy designs, temple designs and many other types. The main question that a lot of people have is whether sterling silver tarnishes or not.

In this blog, you will understand how sterling silver tarnishes and how to prevent the tarnish. I will also give you a few cleaning tips for tarnished silver jewellery.

Understanding Sterling Silver and Tarnishing

Sterling Silver or 92.5 silver is the highest quality of silver that can be used in the making of silver jewellery. This sterling silver is made up of 92% pure silver and 2.5% of other alloyed metals. Most of the time, the alloyed metal that is used is copper. 

Pure silver does not tarnish but the 7.5% of alloyed metals react to various elements like air, water, etc. which causes the tarnishing in silver jewellery.

Elements that help Silver tarnish 

If you notice your silver jewellery tarnishing, there might be a couple of reasons why that might be happening. Some of them are: 

• Sweat and moisture – One of the main reasons for silver tarnish is sweat and moisture. When you wear jewellery daily, the sweat from your body and moisture from the air causes it to react. 
• Air Pollutants – Another reason for the tarnish is because of air pollutants. Sulfur that is present in the air and in some foods can cause the metal to react and tarnish.
• Cosmetic Products – Using cosmetic products like moisturiser, perfumes and deodorants can also tarnish the metal. 
• pH levels in the human body – Everyone has a different skin pH level. Because of this, silver jewellery might tarnish faster on some people than others.
• Coastal salt air – If you live near the sea or in an industrial area, salt and pollution speed the process.
• Storage – If you don’t store the silver jewellery properly, then the moisture might help it react. 

How to Prevent Tarnishing of Sterling Silver?

Here are some ways you can prevent the tarnishing of silver jewellery.

• Store it properly – Store your silver jewellery in a dry, airtight container away from direct sunlight or water. This will keep the silver bright and safe. You can add a piece of chalk to the container so that it absorbs the additional moisture in the box. 
• Wear it daily – Wearing your silver jewellery regularly can be a good thing. The natural oils from your skin can form a protective layer over the silver jewellery. 
• Prevent exposure – Make sure to remove the silver jewellery before swimming, showering or cleaning.
• Use anti-tarnish products – Use anti-tarnish strips, these will help in absorbing the moisture. 
• Clean it properly – Clean your silver jewellery properly with a mild soap and water or baking soda and wipe it with a soft cloth. If you can’t clean it at home, you can bring your jewellery to trusted places like BMR Aabharan Jewellery in Ongole to get it professionally cleaned.

FAQs

• What is sterling silver?

Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper, which gives it strength and the tendency to tarnish.

• Why does sterling silver tarnish faster in certain climates?

Humidity, salty air and industrial pollutants all help in tarnishing of the metal. Coastal towns like those near Andhra Pradesh experience faster tarnishing.

• Is tarnished sterling silver still safe to wear?

Yes. Tarnish is cosmetic. It is not toxic. However, heavy corrosion that pits metal or loosens stones should be professionally looked at.

• Can I wear sterling silver in the shower?

It is not recommended. Chlorinated water, soaps and body products speed tarnish and can dull finishes. Remove jewelry before showering for best longevity.

Conclusion

Sterling silver is one of the most popular metals for jewelry. It is affordable, bright, and versatile. Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. That small percentage of alloying metal is essential for strength. But it also explains why sterling silver changes over time. 

If you are looking for the best quality silver jewellery or if you want to get your silver jewellery professionally clean, then visit BMR Aabharan Jewellery in Ongole, Andhra Pradesh.

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