Sterling Silver Care & Wear Instructions
Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and common chemicals. Proper care will help maintain the luster of your silver beads and findings for years.
1. Daily Wear Guidelines (The "Last On, First Off" Rule)
To minimize tarnish and damage, treat your sterling silver as the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.
AVOID Contact With:
Chemicals: Perfumes, hairsprays, cosmetics, lotions, hand sanitizers, and household cleaning products (bleach, ammonia, etc.).
Water: Remove jewelry before showering, swimming (especially in chlorine or salt water), or entering hot tubs/saunas.
Sweat: Remove jewelry before exercising or performing strenuous physical activities, as the salt in perspiration accelerates tarnish.
Encouraged Wear: Wearing silver jewelry often is actually one of the best ways to keep it shiny, as the natural oils from your skin help clean the metal.
2. Proper Cleaning
Clean your silver regularly to remove oils and dirt before tarnish sets in.
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| After every wear, or at the first sign of dullness. | Gently rub with a soft, non-abrasive silver polishing cloth (specifically made for silver). Wipe, do not scrub. |
| When dirt or grime accumulates. | Soak the item in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of mild, phosphate-free dish soap. Gently rub with a soft cloth or a very soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly with clean, warm water and dry immediately with a soft, clean towel. |
Important Note for Oxidized Silver (like the Bali Spacers): | When cleaning the Bali spacers (which have an intentional dark, oxidized finish), do not use silver polish or dip cleaners. These products will strip the dark oxidation. Use a dry, soft cloth or mild soap and water only. | |
3. Storage is Key
Proper storage is the best defense against tarnish when you are not wearing your silver.
Keep it Dry and Airtight: Store your silver in a cool, dark, and dry place.9 An airtight plastic zip-lock bag or a soft, anti-tarnish pouch is ideal to limit exposure to air and humidity.
Prevent Scratches: Store each piece separately to prevent beads and findings from rubbing against each other and causing scratches.
Absorb Moisture: Place anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets (found in shoe boxes or packaging) inside your jewelry box or storage bags to absorb moisture and sulfur in the air.
Avoid Tarnish Accelerants: Do not store silver near rubber bands, newspaper, or painted surfaces, as the sulfur compounds can cause severe tarnishing.
