How to Care for Your Silver Jewellery and Keep it Shining!

Solid Silver Jewellery is a timeless, versatile and effortlessly beautiful accessory that never falls out of trend. However, to keep your silver jewellery looking its best, it’s important to know how to care for it and what can cause your jewellery to tarnish.

Every Piece of jewellery I create at Kerensa Jewellery is carefully crafted with huge attention to detail to ensure each customer receives their perfect piece that not only can be worn but cherished and handed down for years to come. For my silver jewellery, I only use solid silver as it is a very durable and strong material that is capable of lasting centuries, as seen in restored antiques.

Even without regular maintenance, solid silver has a remarkable ability to withstand the test of time, collecting memories and stories throughout its life. Silver may dull or tarnish, through time and everyday wear, especially with contact with certain perfumes and chemicals, but unlike plated or mass-produced jewellery, it is never ruined, it just needs some TLC 😊

In this Guide we will be going through the most common questions of why things happen and show you how to care for your solid silver jewellery, prevent tarnish and restore its natural shine, so your favourite pieces always look as good as the day you received them!

Why Does Silver Tarnish?

Tarnish on silver is totally natural, and it is nothing to worry about, especially after reading this blog! Tarnish is simply the result of a gentle chemical reaction between silver and the moisture and other elements within the air, especially sulphur and oxygen. Scientifically, tarnish is known as silver sulphide, with a chemical formula of Ag₂S. Over time or after contact with certain chemicals, this silver sulphide forms a thin layer over your jewellery, which appears as a dull, darkened and slightly yellow coating, which you may have noticed on older jewellery and silverware.

Things like humidity, skin oils, lotions, perfumes, sweat, and even the materials your jewellery is stored with can speed up tarnishing. You might notice it more quickly if you live near the sea (hello Cornwall!), where salty air adds to the mix, or if you keep your jewellery in the bathroom, where moisture hangs in the air.

Fortunately, tarnish does not harm your silver, and it is not permanent. With the right tools and care, tarnish can easily be cleaned away, revealing the original shine of your jewellery.

Tarnish isn’t always unwanted, in fact, many people love the natural patina that silver develops over time as it can add a different style and character. Oxidised jewellery is a finish that takes advantage of silver’s ability to tarnish, creating a darker and moodier style of silver jewellery. This style can be seen in the Cribbar Solid Silver Men’s Cuff

satin Cribbar torque cuff leaning on Oxidised Cribbar cuff
Polished (Left) - Oxidised (Right) Cribbar Cuff

How to Clean Your Silver Jewellery at Home

Use a Soft Polishing Cloth

Gently rub your silver jewellery with a special silver polishing cloth. Avoid tissues or paper towels, which can scratch the surface. I recommend using the Town Talk Silver Polishing Cloth. This 100% cotton cloth is specially treated to remove tarnish and restore silver’s natural shine with ease. It is Infused with anti-tarnish agents that helps protect your silver, keeping it bright and polished for longer.

Mild Soap and Water

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wipe your jewellery gently. Rinse in clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Specialised Silver Polish

For heavier tarnish or pieces that need a deeper clean, you can use a specialised silver polish. These products are designed to safely lift tarnish without damaging the silver. Apply a small amount with a soft cloth, following the product instructions carefully, and polish in gentle, circular motions. Always rinse or wipe thoroughly afterwards to remove any residue. Avoid using household cleaners or abrasive products, as they can damage the finish and detail of your jewellery.

How to Store Your Silver Jewellery

  • Keep it dry: Moisture speeds up tarnishing. Store your silver jewellery in a dry place.
  • Use anti-tarnish pouches or cloths: These can slow down oxidisation.
  • Store separately: Silver is soft and can scratch easily. Keep each piece in its own pouch or box to protect it from knocks and tangles.

Wearing Tips to Prevent Tarnish

  • Last on, first off: Put your jewellery on after applying perfume, hairspray, or lotions.
  • Remove before swimming or showering: Chlorine, salt water, and even tap water can accelerate tarnish.
  • Take off during exercise or cleaning: Sweat and cleaning products are harsh on silver.

Bring Back the Shine with Professional Cleaning

If your jewellery is heavily tarnished or needs a deeper clean, I am always happy to help. I offer professional cleaning and re-finishing for our pieces, just get in touch, and I’ll advise the best next step.

Made to Be Worn, Designed to Last

Every piece of Kerensa Jewellery is made to last, from our solid silver bangles and sea-inspired cuffs to our Millennium hallmarked pendants. With the right care, your silver jewellery can be enjoyed for decades and handed down through generations.

Looking for a new piece to cherish?

Browse our handmade silver jewellery collection and discover timeless designs made in Cornwall.