What is Sterling Silver vs Silver-Plated?
925 sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. We plate our silver jewellery in rhodium, which gives it extra shine and durability. Rhodium is one of the costliest precious metals due to its rarity. All of our sterling silver pieces are stamped with ‘925’ to certify their authenticity.
Our sterling-silver plated pieces are plated with sterling silver on brass with a layer of anti-tarnish on top. These pieces are still incredibly durable and plated with exactly the same process as our sterling silver, however they are not marked with a '925' stamp as they are not 92.5% pure silver.
Whether you own silver plated or 925 silver pieces, this guiade will help you keep your silver looking as good as new.
1. Understanding Why Silver Tarnishes
Sterling silver can in fact tarnish – it’s a natural reaction of silver when exposed to elements like oxygen and sulphur compounds in the air, forming a dark layer on the surface and diminishing its shine. It’s never permanent though, and sterling silver jewellery can be easily restored to its original incredible-ness. Our sterling silver jewellery is rhodium-plated which protects it and helps reduce long-term tarnishing.
Sterling silver can also tarnish when exposed to chemicals present in perfume, hairspray, make-up, nail polish remover, body oils, sun tan lotion and deodorant. Our number one rule is to keep away the chemicals.
Regular cleaning and proper storage can help prevent tarnish from occurring. Additionally, wearing your sterling silver jewellery frequently can also help minimise tarnishing as the natural oils in your skin can act as a protective barrier.
2. How to Clean Silver Jewelry
A. Daily & Gentle Cleaning
For light tarnish and maintenance:
- Microfiber Cloth Method: Gently buff with a silver polishing cloth (no chemicals needed).
-
Mild Soap & Water:
- Mix lukewarm water + a drop of mild dish soap.
- Soak for 5–10 minutes, scrub softly with a toothbrush, rinse, and dry thoroughly.
B. Deep Cleaning for Heavy Tarnish
If your silver is dark or dull, try these safe methods:
- Baking Soda & Aluminum Foil (for stubborn tarnish):
-
- Line a bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up.
- Add 1 tbsp baking soda + 1 cup boiling water.
- Soak jewelry for 5–10 seconds, then rinse and dry. (Avoid gemstones!)
-
Commercial Silver Dip (quick but strong):
- Use a brand-name silver cleaner (e.g., Hagerty, Connoisseurs).
- Dip for seconds only, then rinse well.
Don't Use:
- Toothpaste (too abrasive)
- Bleach or ammonia (damages metal)
- Harsh scrubbing (scratches silver)
In addition, clean gemstone silver jewelry carefully—some stones (opal, pearl, turquoise) are porous and should never be soaked.
3. Proper Storage to Prevent Tarnish
Do:
- Anti-Tarnish pouches – Store in felt-lined boxes or zip-lock bags with anti-tarnish strips.
- Airtight containers – Reduces exposure to air and humidity.
- Separate pieces – Prevents scratches (silver is soft!).
Don’t:
- Bathroom storage – Humidity speeds up tarnishing.
- Pile jewelry together – chains tangle, and friction causes wear.
4. How to Wear Silver Jewelry to Minimize Damage
Put jewelry on last – after makeup, perfume, and hairspray. Remove Before:
- Swimming (chlorine damages silver)
- Showering (soap residue dulls shine)
- Gym (sweat accelerates tarnishing)
Don't:
- Sleeping in silver jewelry (bends chains, weakens clasps).
- Wearing silver in hot tubs or saltwater (corrodes metal).
5. Special Care for Different Silver Jewelry Types
Chains & Necklaces
- Untangle gently with a needle or baby oil.
- Lay flat or hang to prevent kinks.
Rings & Bracelets
- Polish frequently (high-contact areas tarnish faster).
- Remove when washing hands (soap buildup dulls shine).
Earrings (Especially Studs)
- Clean backs regularly (prevents irritation).
- Store with stoppers to keep posts straight.