There’s something undeniably special about owning handmade jewelry. Each piece tells a story, crafted with care and artistic intent, making it more than just an accessory—it’s an extension of your personal style. If you’ve ever added a unique sterling silver piece from Dazed and Topazed to your collection, you know the feeling of wearing something that blends high-end quality with a rebellious, nature-inspired spirit.
But how do you keep these one-of-a-kind treasures looking their best for years to come? Sterling silver is a durable and timeless metal, but it requires some love to keep it from tarnishing or dulling. Don’t worry—caring for your handcrafted sterling silver jewelry is easier than you might think. In this post, I'll dive into some tips and tricks to ensure your pieces stay as fresh as the day you first picked them out.
What Causes Sterling Silver to Tarnish?
First, let’s understand why sterling silver tarnishes. Sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (often copper), which gives it strength for jewelry making. Over time, these other metals can react with oxygen, moisture, and sulfur in the air, causing the piece to tarnish or develop a darkened surface.
But don’t worry! Tarnish is a natural process and can be easily cleaned off, restoring your jewelry to its original luster.
Simple Steps for Everyday Jewelry Care
Here are a few quick and easy habits to adopt that will help keep your sterling silver looking its best:
1. Wear It Often
Believe it or not, wearing your jewelry is one of the best ways to keep it looking fresh. The natural oils in your skin help prevent tarnishing by coating the metal, keeping it shiny. So, don’t save your pieces for special occasions—make them a part of your daily look!
2. Store It Properly
When you’re not wearing your jewelry, store it in an airtight container or a soft jewelry pouch to minimize its exposure to air and moisture. You can also place a small piece of anti-tarnish paper or a silica gel packet inside to help absorb any moisture.
3. Avoid Exposure to Chemicals
Keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals like perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and cleaning products. These can speed up the tarnishing process. Make it a habit to put on your jewelry after applying these products to protect your pieces from unnecessary exposure.
How to Clean Your Sterling Silver Jewelry at Home
Even with the best care, your jewelry will likely need a little cleaning from time to time. Luckily, there are several eco-friendly and easy methods to restore your sterling silver’s shine:
1. Soap and Water
For light tarnishing, a simple soap and water solution can do wonders. Use a mild, phosphate-free soap and warm water, and gently rub your jewelry with a soft cloth or your fingers. Rinse with clean water and dry completely before storing or wearing.
2. Baking Soda and Water Paste
For heavier tarnish, mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste. Using a soft cloth or toothbrush, gently rub the paste onto your jewelry, focusing on any tarnished areas. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
3. White Vinegar and Baking Soda
If your sterling silver jewelry is deeply tarnished, try this natural solution. Soak your pieces in a mixture of 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 2 tablespoons of baking soda for about 2-3 hours. Rinse under cold water, then dry with a soft cloth. This method works especially well on intricate pieces with lots of details.
4. Polishing Cloths
Invest in a high-quality jewelry polishing cloth. These cloths are designed to remove tarnish and restore shine without scratching the surface of your jewelry. Keep one on hand for quick touch-ups, and avoid using tissue paper or paper towels, as these can scratch the silver.
Long-Term Care Tips for Your Sterling Silver
If you want your jewelry to look stunning for years to come, there are a few extra steps you can take:
• Polish Occasionally: Every so often, give your pieces a polish with a silver-specific polishing cloth or solution. Don’t overdo it, though! Polishing too frequently can wear down the metal over time.
• Rotate Your Jewelry: Give your favorite pieces a break every now and then to avoid over-wearing or scratching. Rotating between your jewelry collection will ensure each piece stays in pristine condition.
• Check for Damage: Before cleaning, always check for loose stones or clasps. If your jewelry is damaged get it repaired. If it is a piece I made, please reach out, I am happy to fix it or replace it.
Your D&T jewelry pieces are designed to last, but they need a little love and care to stay as bold and radiant as the day they were created. With these simple tips, you can keep your sterling silver jewelry looking fresh and ready for every adventure, whether you’re exploring the desert or dressing up for a night out.
Each piece of jewelry you own is part of your unique story. By caring for your sterling silver, you’re preserving not only the craftsmanship behind each piece but also the memories and moments they represent.
