How to maintain shine, prevent tarnish and protect your most treasured charms
What exactly is sterling silver?
Sterling silver is a high-quality silver alloy known for its strength, beauty and versatility in fine jewellery, tableware and decorative items. It consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, most commonly copper. This specific composition is used to enhance durability, as pure silver (99.9% silver) is too soft for most practical applications.
The term “sterling” refers to this precise silver-to-alloy ratio and is often marked with a “925” stamp, indicating 925 parts of pure silver per thousand. The addition of copper improves the metal’s hardness and wear resistance without significantly compromising its natural lustre and familiar appearance.
Sterling silver is valued not only for its intrinsic material worth but also for its workability and beauty. However, the copper content makes it more prone to tarnishing when exposed to air, moisture or compounds that contain sulfur. With appropriate care, sterling silver retains its brilliance and can last for generations, making it a popular choice among collectors and artisans alike.
Tarnishing on Sterling Silver
Tarnishing is a natural chemical process that affects sterling silver, resulting in a discolouration or dulling of the metal’s surface. As detailed above, sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. Although pure silver is relatively inert, the copper component is more reactive, contributing significantly to tarnish formation.
While tarnish does not damage the silver itself, it dulls the surface and can obscure intricate details over time. Fortunately, with the right care, tarnishing can be significantly slowed or prevented.
Tarnish forms when the metal reacts with sulfur-containing compounds in the air, such as hydrogen sulfide or with moisture and oxygen. This reaction creates a thin layer of silver sulfide on the surface, which appears as a yellow, brown, grey, or black, depending on the extent of the tarnishing.
Key factors that accelerate tarnishing include:
Humidity and air pollution.
Contact with certain materials like wool, latex, cosmetics, perfumes and even some paper or storage containers can emit sulfur or acids that contribute to tarnishing.
Body chemistry: Natural oils and sweat can cause tarnish, particularly if the wearer has more acidic skin.
Tarnish can be removed by cleaning with silver polish, cloths designed for silver or mild chemical dips specifically formulated for silver care.
What you can do to prevent tarnishing of your sterling silver charms
Careful Storage
Keep sterling silver in a cool, dry place away from light and humidity. Use anti-tarnish cloths, bags, or lined jewellery boxes to reduce exposure to air and pollutants. Silica gel packs or anti-tarnish strips can also help absorb moisture and sulfur in enclosed storage.
Avoid Exposure to Chemicals
Sterling silver should be kept away from household cleaners, chlorinated water, perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics—all of which can accelerate tarnishing. Put on silver jewellery after applying beauty products and remove it before cleaning or swimming.
Wear It Often
Regular wear helps prevent tarnish because friction from skin and movement can naturally polish the surface. However, it’s still important to clean pieces gently after wearing to remove sweat and oils.
Clean Regularly
Use a soft polishing cloth designed for sterling silver to wipe away light tarnish. For deeper cleaning, mild soap and water or specialised silver cleaners are recommended—avoiding abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
Keep Away from Tarnish-Causing Materials
Avoid storing silver near items that emit sulfur or acids, such as rubber bands, newspaper, wool, or certain treated woods. These materials can release gases that speed up tarnish formation.
By combining careful storage, thoughtful handling, and routine cleaning, you can preserve the brilliance and longevity of sterling silver. These practices are especially important for collectors and those who value the aesthetic and investment quality of their silver items.
How to Clean Your Sterling Silver Charms at Home
Fortunately, cleaning sterling silver at home is safe and effective when done with the right methods. Whether you’re maintaining everyday jewellery or restoring cherished heirlooms, here are professional techniques for safely cleaning sterling silver at home.
Use a Silver Polishing Cloth
For light tarnish and regular maintenance, a specially treated silver polishing cloth is the safest and easiest option. Gently rub the silver using straight, back-and-forth motions—not circular—to avoid scratches and preserve detailed designs.
Mild Soap and Water Solution
For general cleaning:
• Mix a few drops of mild dish soap (free of ammonia or phosphates) with warm water.
• Use a soft microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge to gently clean the silver.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry immediately with a soft, lint-free towel to prevent water spots.
Baking Soda and Water Paste
To remove heavier tarnish:
• Create a paste using three parts baking soda to one part water.
• Apply the paste with a soft cloth or sponge, gently rubbing the silver.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry. Avoid using this method on silver with intentional oxidised finishes or delicate gemstones.
Aluminium Foil and Baking Soda Bath (Electrochemical Reaction Method)
For multiple pieces or deep tarnish:
• Line a glass bowl with aluminium foil, shiny side up.
• Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of salt per cup of hot water.
• Place the silver items in the solution, ensuring they touch the foil.
• Let sit for 3–5 minutes.
• Remove, rinse well, and dry.
This method safely reverses tarnish without abrasion, making it suitable for lightly textured items.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasives
Never use toothpaste, paper towels, or harsh scrubbing tools, as they can scratch the surface. Commercial silver dips can be effective but should be used with caution, particularly on antique, porous, or gem-set pieces.
Top Tip
Always test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first—especially for vintage or intricately designed items. When in doubt, or for valuable pieces, consult a professional jeweller.
By following these methods, you can maintain the beauty and the longevity of your sterling silver charms right from home, keeping your collection in brilliant condition for many years to come.