How to care for sterling silver jewellery

Why sterling silver needs a little care

Sterling silver is a beautiful, durable metal, but it does need a little attention to keep it looking its best. Over time, silver naturally oxidises when exposed to air, moisture and certain chemicals, which can cause it to tarnish. The good news? Tarnish isn't damage. It's completely reversible, and with a few simple habits, you can keep your silver pieces shining for years.

How to clean sterling silver

The easiest way to keep your silver bright is regular, gentle buffing with a soft polishing cloth. A microfibre or jewellery polishing cloth works perfectly. Just give your piece a gentle rub after wearing it, before putting it away.

If your jewellery has tarnished more heavily, you can use a silver polishing cloth or a specialist silver cleaner. Be gentle around any sea glass, pottery or stones, as some cleaning products can damage softer materials. When in doubt, stick to a dry cloth and avoid liquid cleaners on pieces with set stones.

How to prevent tarnish

Tarnish loves moisture and air. To slow it down:

• Put your jewellery on after applying lotions, perfumes and makeup. Let them settle into your skin first.
• Remove silver jewellery before bathing, showering or swimming.
  
• Store pieces in a dry, airtight container or jewellery box when not in use.

A quick note on recycled silver

Many of my pieces are made with recycled sterling silver, which has exactly the same properties as newly mined silver. It cares for the planet and looks beautiful. Just follow the same care steps above.

The takeaway

A little regular attention goes a long way. A quick buff with a soft cloth after each wear, proper storage, and keeping your pieces away from water and chemicals will keep your sterling silver jewellery looking as good as the day it arrived in its Ebb & Evergreen box.