Sterling silver is sometimes called solid silver, but that is incorrect because sterling silver are always made of only 92.5% pure silver which is an equivalent of 925 parts of pure silver and the reaming parts are mostly made from alloy, usually copper. Other metal like copper is added to sterling silver jewelry to add stiffness because pure silver would come out to be so soft that the jewelry is prone to dents and deformations.
The proportion of 925 never varies because this proportion is affixed by law. Normally you will see that the jewelry has the 925 markings along with the designer’s name or brand.
Sterling silver has this sophisticated look and charm. Sterling silver jewelry is very stylish and has been continuously growing its popularity in all parts of the world. In these present times, sterling silver is even use as engagement rings and wedding rings. Its versatility allows all age and gender to enjoy its look and feel. Some even prefers the tarnish look because it gives the bearer a more distinct gothic appeal.
It is believed that tarnish will not appear on the jewelry if it is worn on a regular basis because the gentle friction and contact of oils from the skin enhances the bright and sparkling look of the jewelry unless the person has a high body or skin acidity or the person is under some sort of medication that rises the level of acidity in his/her body or skin.
One of the methods that you can use to properly clean your sterling silver jewelry is to dilute a mild solution of dishwashing liquid into the water. Soak your jewelry for 2 to 3 seconds, rinse it and wipe it dry. Another way is to combine 2 tablespoonful of baking powder and 2 tablespoonful of salt in an aluminum pan or bowl. Make sure that you are using an aluminum pan or bowl because this will have a big impact in terms of removing the tarnish and stains on your jewelry. Add hot water onto your aluminum pan or bowl mixture. Put the tarnished jewelry inside the mixture and let it sits there for a while. You will see that the tarnish or stain is slowly disappearing. Rinse and wipe it dry. Store your sterling silver in an airtight container or Zip locks because moisture and air can actually invite tarnish.
A simpler way to remove mild cases of tarnished sterling silver jewelry is the use of silver cloth. You can purchase silver cloth in supermarkets or hardware. Normally a silver cloth comes in two parts: the cleaning cloth and the polishing cloth.
Since sterling silver is considered as a delicate metal, make sure that your sterling silver does not contact with any harsh substances such as perfumes, alcohol, soaps, and hair products like hair sprays or gel because this will advance the oxidation inviting tarnish or oxidation to start.
Prevention is better than cure. So, be sure to clean your sterling silver jewelry every after use. Take time in cleaning.
