In general, sterling silver really does tarnish. Incase a sales lady tells you that sterling silver never tarnishes, its either she’s lying or she doesn’t really know what’s she’s taking about. Sometimes, jeweler would coat or plate sterling silver jewelry with other metal substance like rhodium and the likes to prevent tarnishing and discoloration. The combining of metal will only prolong the tarnishing process but it can not eradicate the tarnishing itself unless the coating of another substance is so thick that it can protect the sterling silver material of the jewelry.
Sterling silver nowadays is widely used as jewelry, ornaments, decorations and etc. The brightness of sterling silver is uniquely different. It is far from the shine of gold, white gold and other minerals and metals. Sterling silver is not cheap in terms of price. It is only less expensive compared to stainless and white gold. Some sterling silver pieces even comes in a costly price depending on the brand, manufacturer and craftsmanship.
Other people prefer the corroded look for a gothic appeal. This look has been continuously growing its popularity. But, no matter how you like your sterling silver, you have to know that you must only purchase sterling silver that has 925 markings on them. 925 means 92.5% pure sterling silver. This amount or rate does not vary or change. It is a general rule affixed by the government. A sterling silver should be 92.5% pure before it is even considered as sterling silver.
There are the so called high end sterling silver which is commonly done or manufactured by designers such as Tiffany Co. and the likes. Some of these jewelers even offer a free cleaning to their loyal customers. That way cleaning is no longer an issue. But when it comes to daily routine in terms of cleaning and storing, it is essential that you clean your sterling silver every after use. Take time in cleaning before storing your sterling silver and always be reminded to store your sterling silver in an air tight container or zip locks to prevent air from contacting with your jewelry. It is strongly believe that air and light advances the tarnishing either it is a natural light or artificial light.
Toothpaste is said to be the best substance used for cleaning sterling silver but that is not true. Never use toothpaste to clean this kind of jewelry because toothpaste is too harsh and since sterling silver is known as a delicate metal it is not really recommended to use this kind of substance or the likes to clean sterling silver. You can purchase a silver cloth to properly clean and polish your sterling silver at home. Silver cloth can be purchase in supermarkets or hardware.
It is also said that wearing your sterling silver regularly will enhance the glossiness of your sterling silver because the oil in our skin enhances the color of the sterling silver. However, this statement is not applicable if the person has a high acidity level in his/her skin because acidity in the skin may be the actual cause of tarnishing.
