|
|
| | |
|
|
What is Sterling Silver?
Silver is a precious metal that is too fine to be made in a 100% form. To make it durable for jewelry, pure silver is often alloyed with small
quantities of copper, (7.5%), with the end result being sterling silver (92.5% or .925). Although any metal can make up the 7.5 percent
non-silver portion of sterling, centuries of experimentation have shown copper to be its best companion, improving the metal's hardness and
durability without affecting its beautiful color.
Will my sterling silver jewelry tarnish?
The answer is yes. Sterling silver jewelry tarnishes because sulfides in the air react with the metals that are in the sterling alloy. The
more pollution or humidity (or the closer you live to the beach), the more quickly the jewelry will tarnish. Certain people's body chemistry
can also react to the sterling to cause it to tarnish more quickly. Although wearing your silver jewelry is the best way to prevent tarnish
from building up, regular cleanings will prevent tarnish and keep your silver bright and sparkling.
How do I clean my sterling silver jewelry?
The best way to clean our jewelry is to GENTLY rub the silver with a jewelry polishing cloth periodically. The blacker the polishing cloth
gets, the better it cleans. We do not recommend using any type of silver polish or jewelry cleaner – even polish or cleaners formulated specifically to remove
tarnish – as they will remove all the black within the letters on our affirmation jewelry. Jewelry storage is important as well. When you are
not wearing your silver jewelry, store it in a cool, dry place. To minimize scratches and other damage, we suggest placing your jewelry in a
protective box, tarnish-resistant pouch or Ziploc bag. Also, avoid exposing your silver to household chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, and
avoid wearing your jewelry in chlorinated water, as these chemicals can damage silver and accelerate tarnishing. With proper care, your sterling
silver jewelry will last a lifetime! |
| |
| | |
|
|
|