Ultimate Guide: How to Clean Silver Jewelry?

Before cleaning your silver jewelry, it is essential to know the type of silver it is made of.

There are three types of money:

• Pure silver : Pure silver contains 99.9% silver, but silver jewelry is rarely made from it alone. Pure silver is too soft to be used alone in jewelry making.

• Sterling silver : Sterling silver is the most durable type of silver for jewelry. It is made of pure silver mixed with an alloy, usually copper. All VRAI silver jewelry is made of sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper.

• Silver plated : Silver plated jewelry is made of a base metal (copper, brass, etc.) coated with a thin layer of silver. This type of lightweight silver can easily be damaged during cleaning if not done carefully.

If you are unsure of the type of silver in your jewelry, check the hallmarks. Sterling silver jewelry typically has markings, often located on the clasp or back, that say "925" or "Sterling." If there is no marking, it is likely that your jewelry is silver plated.

If you are still unsure whether your jewelry is silver plated or sterling silver, you can consult the retailer or perform the magnet test. Since pure silver is not magnetic, sterling silver jewelry should generally not stick to a magnet, unlike silver plated jewelry.

How to Clean Silver Jewelry at Home

The best way to clean silver jewelry at home is to use the "Light Wash" method. This simple solution requires only common household items and takes very little time.

Materials and tools needed

• A shallow bowl or dish

• Microfiber cloth

• Soft towel

• 1 teaspoon mild dish soap

• 1 cup warm (not hot) water

Instructions

1. In a clean bowl or dish, mix your dish soap of choice with warm water.
2. Wait until the soap is completely dissolved, then place your jewelry in the bowl. If you are cleaning multiple pieces of silver jewelry, make sure the bowl is large enough for the jewelry to soak without rubbing against each other.
3. Soak your silver jewelry for 15 to 30 minutes.
4. Carefully remove the jewelry and rub it lightly with a soft microfiber cloth until clean. For some silver jewelry, it may be better to wipe gently rather than rub.
5. Rinse your silver jewelry in clean, room temperature water, then let it dry on a soft, clean towel.

How to Clean Silver Necklaces

Some types of silver jewelry require slightly different cleaning methods. For cleaning silver necklaces, the Light Wash method described above works best. You can leave the necklaces in the solution a little longer if necessary.

If the silver necklace is tarnished, the Medium Wash method is also suitable. Silver chains tarnish more quickly because they are exposed to various products such as lotions and perfumes. If your necklace is decorated with diamonds, be especially careful when wiping.

The Light Wash and Medium Wash methods are also suitable for cleaning silver chains. We recommend that you let your silver necklaces and chains dry completely before storing them.

How to Clean Sterling Silver Rings

The best way to clean sterling silver rings depends on whether or not there are diamonds or gemstones on the ring.

For silver rings set with diamonds, it is essential to clean them gently. You can use the Light Wash method described above, but be especially careful when wiping them. Avoid rubbing near the diamonds , even if that area is tarnished.

If your diamond ring is badly tarnished, it is best to take it to a professional to avoid any damage.

For tarnished silver rings that do not have diamonds, the Medium Wash method is recommended. Then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the tarnished areas or those that need extra cleaning after soaking in the solution.

The same instructions apply for cleaning silver earrings and bracelets.

How to care for silver jewelry

In addition to regular cleaning (at least twice a year), you can prevent tarnishing and preserve the beauty of your silver jewelry by caring for it properly.

📋 Here are some tips for effectively maintaining your silver jewelry:

• Wear them often : Wearing your silver jewelry regularly helps prevent tarnishing. The natural oils in your skin help keep the silver shiny.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and scrubbing : Remove your jewelry before any activity that exposes silver to chemicals, chlorine, sweat or water, such as swimming, cleaning, hand washing or weight training.
• Know when to remove them : Remove your jewelry before sleeping or during the activities mentioned above to avoid scratches and friction. Put on your silver jewelry last, after applying perfume, hair products or makeup, to avoid direct contact with these substances.
• Store them properly : Keep your jewelry at room temperature, away from light and air to avoid tarnishing.

How to Keep Silver from Tarnishing

Pure silver does not tarnish, but jewelry is rarely pure silver. All silver jewelry will eventually tarnish due to exposure to air, chemicals, and moisture. Proper care and regular cleaning can prevent and remove tarnish.

The best way to prevent your silver jewelry from tarnishing is to store it properly:

• Airtight storage : Store your jewelry in an airtight, dark container, such as a jewelry box, to protect it from moisture.
• Anti-tarnish accessories : If you don't have a box, consider purchasing a bag or anti-tarnish strips, especially if your jewelry isn't worn often.
• Separation of jewelry : Store each piece of jewelry separately to avoid scratches, even between silver pieces.

See this leather travel jewelry box , ideal for storing and preserving your silver jewelry when traveling.

Wearing your silver jewelry regularly can prevent tarnishing, but if your jewelry is exposed to lotions or chemicals, it may tarnish. Clean it after each exposure and polish it regularly to maintain its shine.

FAQs about cleaning silver

Use the following information to answer any questions you still have about cleaning silver jewelry.

What is the best way to clean silverware?

In general, it's best to clean your silver with a mild solution and a non-abrasive cloth. The best cleaning method depends on whether the jewelry needs simple maintenance or is tarnished. See the instructions above for how to clean each type of silver jewelry.

What is the best home remedy for cleaning silver?

The Light Wash method, described above, is the best solution for cleaning your silver jewelry at home. It is simple, quick and does not use abrasive ingredients that could damage the metal.

Is baking soda bad for silver?

Yes, avoid using baking soda to clean your silver jewelry. Baking soda is generally too abrasive and can scratch or damage the silver.

What is the natural method to clean silver?

For natural and effective cleaning, opt for a natural dish soap as part of the Light Wash method.

How to remove tarnish from silver?

Tarnished silver jewelry can usually be restored with the Medium Wash method, which is effective in restoring its original shine. If the tarnish persists, it is best to call a professional for a more thorough cleaning.

Does toothpaste clean silver?

No, toothpaste is too abrasive for silver and may damage it, even on tarnished pieces. It is best to avoid using toothpaste to clean silver jewelry.

Does vinegar tarnish silver?

No, white vinegar does not tarnish silver. When used in the Medium Wash method or diluted with water, vinegar is excellent for cleaning tarnished silver.

What should not be used to clean silverware?

Avoid all abrasive products such as toothpaste and baking soda. We recommend using only the ingredients mentioned in the previous sections. Any other product could damage your silver jewelry.

What is the best way to polish silverware?

Regular polishing is a great way to prevent tarnishing. Use a special silver polishing cloth. However, for delicate pieces like some rings or earrings, it is best not to polish them yourself to avoid damaging them.

How often should you clean silver?

Silver jewelry should be cleaned at least twice a year, depending on how often it is worn. It is recommended to polish silver regularly and to clean it after any exposure to chemicals or lotions, such as chlorine.