How to Keep Sterling Silver Jewelry Looking Brand New

Alright, let's talk sterling silver – the backbone of every man’s jewelry collection. If your lineup doesn't include at least one piece, you might want to consider grabbing a couple options.

When taken care of properly, no other type of men’s jewelry gives you more 'bang for your buck' than 925 sterling silver. It isn't just jewelry; it's an investment that will last a lifetime. If you're after timeless pieces for any occasion, sterling silver should undoubtedly secure that top spot on your list.

Now, the most asked question that comes up when diving into the world of sterling silver is, "Does 925 Sterling Silver jewelry tarnish?" The short answer is yes, it does. But here's the thing – it's supposed to.

Sterling silver jewelry, at its best, develops a charming patina over time. It's not a flaw; it's a unique feature. In this article, we'll unpack why it tarnishes, why there's no need to stress, and drop some insider tips on how to keep it looking fresher for longer. Stick around as we answer some of your most frequently asked questions below, and feel free to skip ahead to the parts you need to know:

• What is 925 Sterling Silver?
• Why does Sterling Silver tarnish? 
• Why tarnishing is actually a good thing
• 3 simple ways to stop your jewelry tarnishing
• How to remove tarnish once it's already happened
• Conclusion

What is 925 Sterling Silver?

Let's simplify it – silver, in its purest form (99.9%), is far too delicate for everyday jewelry. It’s soft, prone to scratches, dents, and overall wear and tear. While it does exist, the heavy price tag attached to it might make you think twice, especially considering how easily it can be damaged.

Let’s just say it's not the most practical choice for daily wear, and you might not feel you're getting your money's worth. Now, enter 'Sterling' Silver, a solution to this problem.

Made up of 92.5% silver (hence the 925 Hallmark) and 7.5% of other, more durable metals, Sterling Silver jewelry strikes the perfect balance. These additional metals transform the silver into an alloy, boosting its strength. You get the look, feel and status of pure silver, without the heavy price tag and constant worry of damage. 

So, why does 925 Sterling Silver jewelry tarnish? 

Firstly, let's clear one thing up – tarnishing doesn't mean that your Sterling Silver jewelry lacks quality, it means it’s authentic. In reality, it's a natural, and unavoidable characteristic for this type of silver.

Remember that 7.5% blend of metals? Well, some of those metals, especially copper, plays a key role. When these types of metals come into contact with moisture in the air, it sets off a reaction leading to tarnishing. In fact, air exposure, humidity levels, and chemical contact all contribute to your sterling silver jewelry tarnishing over time.

But, tarnishing is actually a good thing:

Instead of thinking of Sterling Silver's 'worn' look as a problem, try and look at it a different way. These qualities contribute to the authenticity and uniqueness of this jewelry type, making it more than an accessory—it carries your story. As you wear it, Sterling Silver develops unique patinas and textures, creating a distinctly personal piece that evolves with you through time. 

But, if the rugged look isn’t for you, don’t worry—preventing tarnishing is no big deal and takes just a few minutes.

Here's 3 easy ways to stop Sterling Silver from tarnishing

To keep your Sterling Silver jewelry free from tarnish, it's simple – just give them a quick clean after wearing. This not only gets rid of any dirt but also wipes away natural oils. Use warm water, softly scrub with a cloth, and make sure to dry them. You can even clean them during your shower, but remember to dry afterward.

A quick heads up: Wearing your silver in the shower isn't the same as taking a dip in the pool. Chlorine, like your body's oils, can speed up oxidation and tarnishing. If wearing your favourite jewelry in the pool is non-negotiable, 316L Stainless Steel Jewelry is a great alternative.

And for an added layer of care, stash your pieces in an airtight jewelry box when you aren't wearing them. This limits exposure to air, reducing the chances of oxidation. The good news is you don't have to worry about buying these items separately. The pieces in the CRAFTD 925 collection come with a protective leather pouch, cloth, and box as standard.

Can I remove tarnishing after it’s already happened? 

Already got old tarnish spots on your sterling silver jewelry? Don’t worry, there's a simple fix for that too. For light tarnish, use a specially coated anti-tarnish cloth to gently scrub away the discolouration, but be cautious not to overdo it—this can sometimes reduce the shine of your silver jewelry. You can also try a toothbrush with a light mix of baking soda and water. 

For more severe tarnishing, over-the-counter tarnish removers, often called "silver dips," work effectively.

Conclusion:

Having 925 Sterling Silver in your jewelry collection is a must for any man. It's a timeless and classic choice. Good-quality sterling silver, when taken care of, lasts a lifetime and holds its value well.

When you’re wearing the right piece, no one will ask you, "How long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish?". Besides, many guys prefer Sterling Silver because it looks rugged and has that genuine aged look. Since silver is naturally softer than steel, its authentic, less polished appearance over time gives it character and charm.

Explore the 925 Collection below for those must-have pieces you can't skip in your lineup. And, if you're curious about more things Sterling Silver, check out more details in our other articles linked up below.

• The Men's 925 Sterling Silver Collection
• Why every man should own a Sterling Silver Cuban Chain
• Sterling Silver VS Stainless Steel: Which is better?