Silver is one of the most durable metals available, and if well taken care of, can last a lifetime. It is also hypoallergenic and great for those with sensitive skin. One question we get a lot here at Istanbul Jewelry Silver is how to care for sterling silver jewelry. Let’s answer some common questions about silver!
How long will silver last?
High-quality sterling silver can last for decades if well taken care of. It’s important to clean it and store it properly when not being worn. Silver will also last longer if kept away from harsh chemicals such as lotions, perfumes, hand sanitizers, and many soaps.
Does sterling silver tarnish?
The short answer is yes - all silver will tarnish. Silver can tarnish when exposed to harsh chemicals, as well as swimming in pools and the ocean. Some climates can cause tarnishing too - those with high humidity or if you live close to the ocean.
Why does silver tarnish?
If we want to get technical here, pure silver doesn’t tarnish. But pure silver isn’t strong enough to make jewelry out of, so it is mixed with copper to strengthen it. If you look at the back of your silver Tiny Tags, you will see a “925” engraved. This means there is 92.5% silver (the minimum allowed for silver jewelry) and 7.5% copper. It is actually the copper that tarnishes in silver.
How to prevent sterling silver from tarnishing?
Silver is one of the most durable metals available, and if well taken care of, can last a lifetime. It is also hypoallergenic and great for those with sensitive skin. One question we get a lot here at Istanbul Jewelry Silver is how to care for sterling silver jewelry. Let’s answer some common questions about silver!
How long will silver last?
High-quality sterling silver can last for decades if well taken care of. It’s important to clean it and store it properly when not being worn. Silver will also last longer if kept away from harsh chemicals such as lotions, perfumes, hand sanitizers, and many soaps.
Does sterling silver tarnish?
The short answer is yes - all silver will tarnish. Silver can tarnish when exposed to harsh chemicals, as well as swimming in pools and the ocean. Some climates can cause tarnishing too - those with high humidity or if you live close to the ocean.
Why does silver tarnish?
If we want to get technical here, pure silver doesn’t tarnish. But pure silver isn’t strong enough to make jewelry out of, so it is mixed with copper to strengthen it. If you look at the back of your silver Tiny Tags, you will see a “925” engraved. This means there is 92.5% silver (the minimum allowed for silver jewelry) and 7.5% copper. It is actually the copper that tarnishes in silver.
How to prevent sterling silver from tarnishing?