How to Prevent Tarnish on Sterling Silver Jewelry

 

Sterling silver beads are the popular choice for jewelry making for their durability and beauty. But these beads get tarnished over time, particularly when exposed to air. Tarnish is a layer of corrosion that forms on the surface of the metal when sterling silver reacts to substances such as oxygen, water, or sulfur-containing foods. Fortunately, this form of corrosion does not break down the meatal like rust. With the proper jewelry care techniques, tarnish can be removed and prevented. 

Wear It Daily 

Yes, wearing your sterling silver jewelry every day can prevent discoloration of the metal. The oil from your skin plays a crucial role in protecting sterling silver beads and helps them maintain their shine for a long time. 

Avoid Contact with Sulfur-Containing Products 

One of the effective ways to prevent tarnish on sterling silver jewelry is to avoid contact with products that contain sulfur. Some of the products that can accelerate tarnishing are wool, onions, eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, latex, and more. You should also avoid wearing sterling silver jewelry when you are swimming, bathing, and cleaning. 

Safe Storage 

Store your sterling silver jewelry in sealed bags to limit its exposure to air and humidity. You can also add humidity absorbing chalk, activated charcoal packets, or silica gel packs into the zippered plastic bags where you store the jewelry for added protection. Ensure that you are storing each jewelry item separately to prevent tangling and scratching. 

How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry? 

Cleaning your sterling silver jewelry gives a good start and is an effective method to remove tarnish on the sterling silver beads. 

The Electrolyte Method – For Resilient Jewelry Pieces 

The electrolyte method for cleaning is used for sterling silver jewelry pieces that are resilient. This method reverses the chemical process that causes tarnishing and prevents endless polishing and possible abrasions on ornate or engraved pieces. 

Cleaning Methods for Delicate Jewelry Pieces 

Delicate sterling silver jewelry pieces that hold clear gemstones, such as Swarovski crystal beads and pendants, require more careful cleaning. 

Soap and Water: This cleaning method is simple and safe, and it should be the first cleaning method you should attempt on your sterling silver jewelry. 

Baking Soda & Water: Apply a paste of baking soda and water on your sterling silver beads jewelry and rub it using a polishing cloth. Use a thin paste for jewelry that has silver fancy beads or corrugated beads. When done, run carefully under warm water and dry it with a clean cloth. 

White Vinegar & Baking Soda: You can use a mix of white vinegar and baking soda on jewelry pieces that are heavily tarnished. However, you should not use it on jewelry pieces with soft gemstones that can easily etch or scratch. 

The Bottom Line 

Get your sterling silver jewelry professionally cleaned if it has significant discoloration or is fragile, old, or valuable. If you are cleaning by yourself, use the proper techniques so that your sterling silver jewelry gives you many years of enjoyment. Visit https://www.crystalfindings.com/ to buy Swarovski crystal beads, jewelry-making supplies, and wholesale jewelry beads online.