Introduction
Since ancient times, silver has been used to make jewelry
and decorative items. However, since the 18th century, more silver
has been mined and used than in all prior centuries combined. Silver alone is a
soft metal and therefore too soft to be used for jewelry and other items. To
make it more durable, it is mixed with other metals, known as alloy, to create
sterling silver. To be considered sterling silver, a product must contain at
least 92.5 percent pure silver
Instructions:
Difficulty: Moderate
Steps
Step One
To keep sterling silver in pristine condition and to ensure
longevity, think of caring for your sterling silver as preventative
maintenance. Sterling silver contains copper, which adds hardness to silver. It
also creates a tendency for silver jewelry to tarnish. Tarnish is a darkening
that occurs when sterling silver reacts with every day substances. Therefore,
avoid exposing sterling silver to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, cosmetics,
hair spray, and perfume.
Step Two
When cleaning sterling silver, choose a phosphate-free
detergent. Also, choose a low abrasive cleaner, designed for cleaning silver
which can aid in removing tarnish. Jewelry experts advise against using
toothpaste to clean sterling silver as it can be too abrasive and leave dulling
scratches. Body oils help prevent tarnishing so sterling silver jewelry that is
worn often won't have to be cleaned as often.
Step Three
For a quick cleaning, wash your jewelry periodically with mild
dish soap and warm water to prevent tarnishing. Make sure to rinse sterling
silver jewelry well and dry completely with a soft cloth before storing. Or try
the following homemade remedy for silver pieces without gemstones:
- Line the bottom of a
glass or stoneware bowl with a piece of aluminum foil. Place the tarnished
silver on the aluminum foil.
- Add 2 Tbsp baking soda
and 2 cups warm water. The solution should be sufficient to cover the
items. Soak for a few minutes.
- Pour out the items into
a colander or strainer. Rinse, dry thoroughly and shine with a polishing
cloth.
Step Four
Much beloved sterling silver pieces that are worn
continually will probably develop a patina that adds to the jewelry's beauty.
This patina may also include some darkened areas. Some prefer this look for
their jewelry. Others may prefer a brighter look for their sterling silver. If
so, use polish to restore your sterling silver jewelry to its original shiny
look. An occasional polishing will also protect sterling silver from tarnishing.
Step Five
Store sterling silver jewelry in tarnish prevention cloths
or bags. These items are made with treated cloth that slows down the tarnishing
process. It is also important to separate jewelry when being stored so it does
not rub against harder jewelry that could scratch it. If you are not going to wear the piece for a long time, use
small zip lock bags to keep it sealed and dry. Do
not store the silver jewelry directly in contact with wood surfaces as wood
usually contains acids that can damage the finish of the jewelry. Never wrap
your jewelry in newspaper or aluminum foil.
Tips and Warnings
If you want to maintain the life of your jewelry do not wear
while swimming, bathing, doing dishes or cleaning. Do not expose your bracelet or
other jewelry to bleach, chlorine or extended time in water, as this can weaken
the strength of your bracelet or jewelry.
Sterling silver jewelry that has
tarnished will turn brown and eventually black. This type of tarnishing is
difficult to remove and requires professional cleaning.
A good rule for all jewelry:
Jewelry should be the last thing put on when getting dressed in the morning and
the first thing taken off when preparing for bed.
Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry
the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and
Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more
information, contact Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor,
Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit http://www.pandorabraceletsusa.com.
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