Sterling silver is a fantastic material – timeless, beautiful and durable. But like all crafts, it needs a little love to maintain its shine over the years. Here I share my best tips – both classic methods and a real housewife trick.
Why does silver turn dark?
Sterling silver naturally reacts with sulfur and moisture in the air, which can cause the surface to darken or take on a dull tone. This is not a defect in your jewelry – it is a natural process that can be prevented and corrected.
5 easy steps to clean your jewelry
- Gentle wash: Mix a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent in lukewarm water. Let the jewelry sit for a few minutes.
- Soft brush: Use a soft toothbrush to gently clean details and patterns.
- Rinse & dry: Rinse in clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft cotton cloth.
- Polish: Use a polishing cloth designed for silver to restore its luster.
- Extra shine : If necessary, you can use a special silver cleaner – but avoid strong chemicals that can damage both the surface and any stones.
The housewife trick that works
This is an old trick that many swear by – perfect for lightly oxidized jewelry:
- Line a bowl with aluminum foil (shiny side up).
- Add the jewelry along with 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda.
- Pour boiling water over the jewelry until it is covered.
- After a few minutes you will see how the discoloration disappears!
- Rinse the jewelry in cold water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
What happens is a chemical reaction between the bicarbonate, water and aluminium that “pulls away” the tarnish from the silver. Simple, environmentally friendly and effective!
Store your silver jewelry correctly
- Store it dry and dark, preferably in a small cloth bag or box.
- Avoid wearing the jewelry when showering, exercising or swimming in salt water.
- Take it off when applying lotion or perfume.
A little reminder
Handmade jewelry is unique. Every scratch and every little nuance in the silver is part of its history – it only makes it more personal and beautiful. 🌸