Caring for your sterling silver

Sterling silver is a living metal — it develops character over time. With a little care, your pieces will last generations.

everday care

Put it on last

Apply perfume, lotion, and hairspray before wearing. Chemicals dull the surface quickly.

Remove before water

Take pieces off before swimming, showering, or washing dishes. Chlorine and salt water accelerate tarnish.

Avoid direct sunlight

Prolonged sun exposure can fade natural gemstones and cause uneven oxidation on silver.

Wear it often

Natural skin oils actually help maintain silver's shine. Pieces worn regularly tarnish less than those stored away.

do's and don'ts

Do's
  • Wipe with a soft lint-free cloth after each wear
  • Store in an anti-tarnish pouch or airtight bag
  • Keep pieces separated to avoid scratching
  • Use a silver polishing cloth for routine maintenance
  • Keep gemstone pieces away from ultrasonic cleaners
Don't
  • Use abrasive cloths, paper towels, or tissues
  • Expose to bleach, chlorine, or cleaning products
  • Store in humid areas like bathrooms
  • Layer necklaces without separators — chains tangle and scratch
  • Sleep, exercise, or cook while wearing fine pieces

How to clean at home

Gentle soap method

  1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in warm (not hot) water.
  2. Soak the piece for 5–10 minutes. Skip soaking for pieces with porous gems like turquoise or pearl.
  3. Scrub gently with a soft baby toothbrush to reach into engravings and settings.
  4. Rinse under cool running water. Make sure the drain is covered.
  5. Dry thoroughly with a soft lint-free cloth. Air-dry completely before storing.

For heavy tarnish:Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply gently with a soft cloth, rub in small circular motions, then rinse and dry. Avoid this method on gemstone-set pieces — the paste can get lodged in settings.

Pouches or strips

Anti-tarnish

Anti-tarnish bags and chalk strips absorb sulfur compounds in the air — the main cause of tarnish. Place one in your jewelry box.
Ziplock or sealed box

Airtight

Minimizing air exposure dramatically slows tarnishing. Seal pieces individually in small resealable bags when storing long-term.
one piece per pouch

Separate

Silver is a soft metal. Storing pieces together causes micro-scratches over time — especially on polished surfaces and pendant backs.

about natural gemstone

Each stone has its own care needs

water-safe
Amethyst, garnet, labradorite, moonstone, and most quartz varieties can handle gentle rinsing.
keep dry
Turquoise, pearl, opal, malachite, and larimar are porous and absorb water — wipe clean only, never soak.
avoid heat
Most gemstones can crack or fade with sudden temperature changes. Keep away from direct heat and sunlight.
soft stones
Stones like fluorite and calcite scratch easily. Store these separately and avoid contact with harder gems.

Questions? Contact us — we're happy to help care for your piece.