All LiLa Design jewelry is made of Sterling silver (925), a natural property of which is the tarnishing of the surface over time. However, by using, storing, and cleaning them correctly, you ensure that the beautiful bright surface of your silver jewelry lasts longer.
Why does silver jewelry tarnish?
The tarnishing of silver jewelry is caused by a layer of silver sulfide that accumulates on the surface of the jewelry, which is formed when oxygen reacts with hydrogen sulfide in the air. The pH value of the skin also affects the tarnishing of silver, which is why the same piece of jewelry may tarnish at slightly different rates on different people. However, the tarnishing of silver can be slowed down, and tarnished silver can be cleaned!
Silver tarnishes faster if you wear it in the shower, sauna, while doing dishes, or if you expose it to perfumes, chemicals, and body lotions. Lotions, perfumes, and, for example, hairsprays can form a layer on the surface of your jewelry that prevents its sparkle. Your silver jewelry will therefore stay beautiful for longer when you avoid the aforementioned.
Cleaning silver jewelry
For an effective and easy organic method, you only need a deep bowl, aluminum foil, coarse sea salt, and warm water.
- Line the bowl with foil and add warm water and sea salt to it.
- Place the silver jewelry on the bottom of the bowl. The proportions are not that precise; a thin layer of salt is enough.
- Let the jewelry soak in the water for about 5-10 minutes, then rinse the jewelry with warm water and dry well.
If the jewelry is heavily tarnished, stronger silver cleaning agents are sold in jewelry stores, which can make the jewelry really shiny. Please note that these agents cannot be used if the jewelry contains natural stones or pearls. Silver polishing cloths also work well for larger surfaces, but they cannot clean small gaps.
So remember to use, store, and maintain your silver jewelry correctly so that they remain for as long as possible to delight you and complement your outfits!
