Generally Sterling Silver may tarnish and oxidise. It is a natural reaction to chemicals in the atmosphere, wearer’s body oils and temperature. Such discolouration can usually be removed by careful use of a good quality jewellery cleaning cloth. Contact with perfume, hairspray, chlorinated or salt water or household cleaning products should always be avoided.

Oxidized silver Care Tips: Oxidized finishes have the longest life on pieces that come into minimal contact with their surroundings, such as earrings and necklaces. Rings and bracelets tend not to hold their colour quite as long since they rub on things we touch more frequently. Blackened finishes which have been applied to the recesses of a design tend to hold their color best while the raised areas of the piece polish up over time.

It’s best to remove your oxidized silver jewelry before aggressive contact and when showering or washing your hands to prolong the oxidized finish. In general, oxidized silver jewelry should not be cleaned with jewelry cleaning dips or aggressive polishing that will strip the blackened surface. If cleaning is necessary, use soap or mild dish detergent and soft toothbrush with as little rubbing as possible.

Polishing your jewellery before it becomes too tarnished will minimize the amount of work needed, but be sure to use the right type of cleaning cloth and stroke pattern.

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