Keyword(s): sterling silver pendants

It's no secret that looking our best can boost our mental health. However, it can also increase our performance at work.

Taking the extra time to keep your appearance outstanding goes a long way toward how well you interact with your colleagues and customers. Silver jewelry easily integrates into any workwear outfit, adding both style and professionalism.

Whether dressing up for an important meeting or a typical office day, sterling silver pendants bring a touch of elegance. Let's take a closer look at how you can do so.

Choosing the Right Pendant for Office Attire

The right pendant elevates your office look, making it chic and appropriate. Simple designs that complement professional attire work best without overwhelming the outfit.

A well-selected silver pendant subtly enhances your ensemble, offering a statement while keeping a refined appearance. Pieces that sit at the collarbone or just above create a balanced appearance, perfect for the office or important meetings.

Adding Style to Monochrome Looks

Monochrome outfits serve as the ideal backdrop for stylish silver, allowing it to stand out. The simplicity of a single color palette highlights the jewelry, making it a focal point of your outfit. A modern and elegant combination like this is perfect for a sleek workwear look.

Complementing Blazers

A well-chosen pendant necklace adds elegance to professional attire when paired with a blazer. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more intricate, silver complements both casual and formal blazers. Silver pendants also enhance your look without being too flashy, striking the right balance for the office.

Elevating Simple Dresses

Simple dresses gain an instant upgrade with the addition of a silver pendant. The right piece becomes the focal point, transforming a plain dress into something special. For those who favor understated elegance in workwear, this approach works perfectly.

Matching Sterling with Subtle Earrings

Pairing a sterling silver piece with silver earrings creates a cohesive and polished look. Choose earrings that complement the pendant's design without overwhelming your appearance. The combination adds elegance to your workwear, ensuring a well-put-together outfit.

Minimalist Jewelry for a Refined Look

Minimalist jewelry is ideal for achieving a refined and sophisticated workwear style. These pieces are subtle yet stylish, making them perfect for a professional setting. The timeless appeal of minimalist jewelry pairs well with both modern and classic office attire, so don't be afraid to leverage it.

Balancing Bold Pieces with Neutral Colors

Bold silver jewelry pairs effectively with neutral-colored outfits. The contrast between the piece and neutral tones creates a striking, professional, and stylish look. Jewelry can make a statement while keeping the outfit appropriate for the office.

Layered Necklaces

Layered necklaces add depth and interest to workwear outfits. They work particularly well with simple blouses or dresses, where the layers can truly stand out. Carefully choosing the lengths and designs of each pendant creates a cohesive look that enhances your professional wardrobe.

Verifying Authenticity When Buying Jewelry

Verifying the authenticity of silver pieces is essential to avoid purchasing fake or low-quality jewelry. Look for hallmarks or certificates of authenticity indicating the silver's purity.

When buying online, ensure the seller has a solid reputation and offers a return policy if the item doesn't meet your expectations. Otherwise, you should continue your search elsewhere.

The last thing you want is to buy jewelry from a disreputable source. This can cause you to receive low-quality products, and there's a chance you never receive your shipment at all.

Sourcing Jewelry from Ethical Jewelers

Sourcing silver jewelry from ethical jewelers ensures responsible production. Ethical jewelers prioritize fair labor practices and environmentally sustainable methods. Supporting these businesses allows you to wear your silver pendant with pride and know that it aligns with your values.

Understanding Hallmarks in Sterling Pieces

Understanding the hallmarks of sterling silver is key to ensuring the purchase of authentic, high-quality pieces. Hallmarks indicate the silver's purity and often include the maker's mark. Familiarity with these symbols helps confidently identify genuine sterling silver jewelry.

Proper Storage

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the beauty of sterling silver jewelry. Pieces should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent tarnishing. Jewelry boxes or pouches designed for silver pieces protect them from scratches and other damage.

Cleaning Methods

Regular cleaning keeps silver jewelry looking its best. A soft cloth and mild cleaning solution gently wipe away dirt and oils that can dull the silver's shine. For deeper cleaning, consider using a silver polishing cloth or taking the jewelry to a professional.

Keeping your stylish silver pendants regularly cleaned not only preserves their shine but also extends their lifespan. Consistent care allows you to enjoy your quality silver accessories without the worry of tarnish or dullness. These cleaning methods will ensure your silver pieces remain as striking as the day you bought them.

Preventing Tarnish on Necklaces

Preventing tarnish is key to preserving the appearance of silver necklaces. Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, including perfumes and lotions, as they can accelerate tarnishing.

Storing necklaces in anti-tarnish bags or using silica gel packs helps maintain their luster. Another tip is to wear your silver pendants for work regularly, as the oils on your skin can help prevent tarnish from forming.

However, you should always clean your jewelry after exposure to sweat or moisture to keep it in prime condition. From here, you can ensure your affordable silver jewelry continues to enhance your workwear with minimal upkeep.

How to Polish Sterling Jewelry

Polishing sterling silver jewelry effectively restores shine and removes tarnishing. High-quality silver polish and a soft cloth should be used to gently buff the surface. Regular polishing keeps the pieces looking new and ensures they continue to enhance workwear.

When polishing, focus on silver pendant necklaces to bring out their natural luster, especially if they are key accessories in your work wardrobe.

Consistent polishing also prevents minor scratches from becoming more noticeable over time. Keeping your jewelry polished ensures you'll maintain the elegance and sophistication that silver brings to any outfit.

Benefits of Jewelry Boxes

A quality jewelry box offers protection for silver pieces, keeping them safe from damage and tarnish. Choose a box with compartments lined in soft fabric to prevent scratches and tangling.

Look for a jewelry box that can preserve the quality and appearance of your jewelry over time. For silver pendants that you wear often, having a designated spot in your jewelry box helps keep them organized and easily accessible.

Protecting your silver pendants in this way also adds convenience to your daily routine, making it easy to select the perfect piece for any occasion. Silver jewelry can get scratched and damaged easily, but taking extra care will prevent issues like these from arising.

Incorporate Sterling Silver Pendants

The tips in our guide will help you choose the right sterling silver pendants for your aesthetic. With these insights, you can elevate your appearance and maintain a professional look.

costumeiscounters offers premium, handcrafted pieces sourced from top designers worldwide. With over one million items sold, we strive to deliver the best possible customer experience. You'll learn more about our amazing selection when you check out our catalog today.

Preventing and Removing Tarnish: How to Clean a Chain Necklace

Be honest: when was the last time you cleaned your jewelry? It's easy to forget to scrub our favorite pieces, but research suggests this may come back to bite us. One study even found that a ring, watch, and earring worn for seven days picked up 428 times more germs than a toilet seat!

Constant exposure to lotions, moisture, sweat, and other factors can be harsh on the metal finish of your favorite necklace.

That's why knowing how to clean a chain necklace is so crucial. Not only can this keep germs at bay, but it can also help maintain the beauty of your pieces. Even better, it may extend the lifespan of your treasured jewelry.

If you're a little behind on your regular cleanings and you don't know where to start, we've got you covered. Here's what you should know about basic chain jewelry care.

How to Clean a Chain Necklace by Metal Type

Different metals often need different care. It's always a smart idea to grab a specialized cleaning solution for whatever type of metal jewelry you own.

However, if you don't have the right jewelry cleaner, there are still plenty of solutions to try on your own at home. Depending on the type of metal in your chain, you should clean it using the following tactics:

Gold Chains

Gold necklaces are easy to clean with detergent and water. Grab a mild, non-abrasive detergent or dish soap and add it to some warm water. Soak your chain in the solution for a few minutes, then pull it out for cleaning.

You should use a jewelry cleaning cloth for this, but you can also grab a microfiber cloth instead. Rub the chain with gentle strokes, then rinse the soap away with clean water and pat the necklace dry.

Silver and Sterling Silver Chains

Silver and sterling silver sometimes need a bit of extra attention to prevent tarnishing. You can use the water and detergent method above a start, but silver is also durable enough for further cleaning tactics.

You can create a baking soda solution by adding a bit of warm water until the baking soda forms a paste. Grab an extra soft toothbrush for cleaning, then rinse the necklace and pat it dry.

Gold- or Silver-Plated Chains

Plated jewelry needs a delicate touch. Keep in mind that the plating on this jewelry is often thin, so abrasive solutions and harsh scrubbing can wear it away.

Instead, try soaking this jewelry in a detergent and water or vinegar and water solution without scrubbing. Use your jewelry cleaning cloth to wipe it down and remove any grime.

This strategy is also great for "fake" jewelry chains, or chains designed to look as if they're made of metal or gold. The finish on these pieces often requires gentle cleansing to keep it from wearing away.

Copper and Brass Chains

Both of these metals can take a bit more abrasion than the ones above if needed. 

Start with a gentle detergent and water solution. If that doesn't work, mix a paste using salt and vinegar for extra cleaning power.

Additional Cleaning Tactics

If you're struggling to clean your jewelry, there are a few additional strategies that may help you deal with specific problems.

Hair Removal

If you have long hair, you might struggle to get tangles of hair out of your chain necklace. This can be especially tricky if the chain is small or dainty, as it can be hard to pull the hair out without breaking or damaging the chain.

One easy way to avoid this is by using hair removal cream. Dabbing a bit of this cream onto the knot of hair in your chain for a few minutes can cause the hair to break down, making it easier to work out with your fingers or a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse the necklace afterward to remove any remaining cream.

Cuticle scissors are also a great way to get rid of knots caught in your chain. You'll need to have patience to cut the hair away with these small scissors, but it's a safe way to get the hair out without harming the necklace.

Removing Tarnishing

Silver jewelry is prone to darkening over time. Fortunately, you can revive tarnishing with the right cleaning solutions.

Soaking your jewelry in vinegar and water can sometimes help. If not, line a pan or bowl with aluminum foil, and combine equal parts salt and baking soda within it.

Place your silver chain into this solution. Next, heat a cup of water and pour it in, letting the solution bubble. The chemical reaction can help remove dirt and tarnish.

You can also consider using a specialized, ammonia-free cleaning solution like SilverMate to revive silver that has been sitting around for a while.

Chain Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

There's plenty of advice online about cleaning your jewelry, but not all of it is trustworthy! Even if you're dealing with deep-set grime and tarnishing, you'll want to avoid a few harmful cleaning tactics:

Not Knowing the Metal

As we've already mentioned, different metals need different cleaning solutions. Gold, for example, isn't durable enough to withstand some of the abrasive cleaning tactics you can try on sterling silver.

Treating all of your chain necklaces the same is a recipe for disaster and heartbreak! If you aren't careful, you may scrub away your chain's finishing or damage it beyond repair.

Using a Toothbrush

Certain types of jewelry, like sterling silver, can take a very gentle scrubbing. However, many online articles will recommend a toothbrush for any type of chain.

Don't fall for this advice. Toothbrushes are far too abrasive for cleaning most chains, especially small or delicate ones.

Boiling Your Chain

All metals can take a bit of heat, but not for extended periods. Boiling your jewelry might seem like a good idea in theory, but you won't want to expose them to hot water for long. Even worse, letting your jewelry stay in contact with the hot metal bottom of a pot can cause warping and damage.

Soaking It in Bleach

Bleach may be great for household cleaning, but it's far too harsh for your jewelry. Advocates for bleaching jewelry claim that it helps break down tarnishing or grime, which is true. However, bleach may also break down the surface of your favorite jewelry chain!

How Often to Clean Your Chain Necklace

Regular cleaning can keep your chain necklace in great condition. It can also help you avoid tarnishing and a buildup of dirt or grime. However, how do you know how often to clean your favorite pieces?

The answer depends on how often you wear them.

If you wear your chain necklace each day, a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning is a good idea. This can help you rinse away any buildup of grime or your skin's natural oils.

You should also do a bi-annual cleaning of all of your chain necklaces, including pieces you only wear every once in a while. These pieces tend to be cleaner than your daily jewelry and don't need frequent scrubbing.

How to Keep Your Chain Necklace Clean

Once you've cleaned your jewelry and you're enjoying your new, shining necklace, you might wonder how to keep the item clean. What steps can you take to avoid a buildup of grime or discoloration?

Reconsider Your Daily Habits

Showering in your jewelry may not seem like a big deal, but it means your chain necklace gets repeated exposure to moisture, soaps, shampoos, and abrasive washcloths or sponges. This can be harsh on the metal finish, so try to take off your necklace before you shower each day.

If you often apply lotion, oil, or sunscreen on your neck, be careful around your chain necklace. Buildups of these substances can wear down the metal over time. When possible, apply these substances first and give them a chance to absorb into your skin before you put your chain necklace on.

Store Your Chain Necklace Properly

Your choice for jewelry storage matters. Don't just throw your favorite statement necklaces onto the nearest shelf!

Instead, look for a place out of direct sunlight, and make sure the area is at room temperature. Low humidity is also ideal to help avoid tarnishing.

Consider getting a jewelry box with felt dividers and drawers. These storage options not only help you organize your chains, but they can also protect them from light, dust, and debris.

Invest in Your Jewelry Care

If your favorite jewelry pieces hold a special place in your heart, knowing how to clean a chain necklace is crucial. Regular but gentle cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your necklaces while maintaining their beautiful finishes. Make sure to commit to a regular cleaning schedule to see the best results!

At costumeiscounters, we love offering our clients pieces they'll love for years to come. Whether you're looking for a high-quality necklace with an adjustable chain or a stunning choker with delicate gold links, we offer it all. Be sure to check out our jewelry collections or contact us today with questions.

How to Care for a Sterling Silver Ring

Sterling silver first came to light in the 13th century, and ever since then, it has become an incredibly popular alternative to pure silver. Today, you can find sterling silver jewelry just about anywhere. After all, it looks just as good as real silver, and it is only a fraction of the price.

If you have a sterling silver ring, you might be wondering how to care for it. Do you have to care for it in the same way as pure silver, or are there certain things you need to do to make sure it stays in good shape? Keep reading and learn more about how to care for sterling silver.

Clean Your Sterling Silver Ring When Necessary

It is not necessary to clean your sterling silver jewelry all the time. In fact, cleaning sterling silver too often can end up ruining it. Instead, you will only want to clean your ring when you see that it is starting to collect debris or when it seems to be getting a bit tarnished.

If you clean it more often than necessary, you will actually end up removing a little bit of the silver each time. This can decrease some of the decorations the silver might have. Fortunately, cleaning sterling silver is quite easy.

If your sterling silver ring has a serious layer of tarnish on it, it will be a good idea to gently clean the ring with a mixture of baking soda and water. Baking soda is an abrasive substance. Even though it looks like a soft white powder, it is actually made up of many small and very hard particles.

The Details

When you mix baking soda with water, a paste will come together. Apply this paste to a soft piece of cloth and buff it on the surface of your sterling silver ring. The baking soda will scrape off the tarnished layer as well as any debris that may have gotten caught on the ring.

If the ring is not tarnished, then you won't need to go through all this trouble. Instead, all you need to do is use some soap and warm water to rinse off the ring and make sure there is no debris stuck to it. After you're done cleaning the ring, don't forget to polish it.

There are polishes you can buy that are specifically designed to treat sterling silver. These polishes will give your jewelry a particular shine that will also protect the surface of the silver.

Keep Your Ring Out of Direct Sunlight

The sun's UV rays are known to be quite potent and harmful to a variety of things. The sun can do everything from strip the clear coat off of a vehicle to give you a sunburn and more. The sun can also damage your sterling silver jewelry if you're not careful.

The way the sun damages silver is by breaking it apart on a molecular level. Of course, leaving your ring in the sun once in a while and for short periods of time won't really do anything. However, if you happen to leave your ring out where it is exposed to the sun most of the time, you will eventually start to notice signs of damage.

In particular, excessive sun exposure will make your ring tarnish at a faster rate. Silver tarnishing happens when sterling silver is exposed to excess oxygen and sunlight. While there isn't much you can do about its exposure to oxygen, you can keep your jewelry out of the sunlight.

What You Need to Know

Make sure that you don't store your ring in sunny locations such as on a windowsill. Also, if you plan on spending a day out in the sun or going to the beach, it is best to leave your sterling silver ring at home. While you can clean the tarnish off if it happens to develop, it is always best to try and prevent it from tarnishing in the first place.

This is because repeated tarnishing and cleaning can eventually wear down the surface of your ring. This will cause your ring to look faded and old, and it will wear down whatever decorations it may have on its surface.

Take Off Your Ring When Doing Chores

Wearing your ring often is actually good for it since your natural skin oils will keep the silver shiny. However, there are certain things you should take your ring off for. For example, if you have a lot of household chores ahead of you, you'll want to take off your ring.

This is because many different cleaning chemicals can damage the sterling silver. For example, if you happen to have cleaners that contain a lot of sulfur, you should keep your sterling silver away from them, as these particular cleaners will cause your silver to tarnish at an alarmingly fast rate. This is also true of chlorinated water.

Even your own sweat can cause your sterling silver ring to tarnish faster than usual. So, if you care about making sure your ring stays in good condition for as long as possible, you'll want to remove your ring before cleaning anything.

Caring for Your Sterling Silver Ring

Caring for a sterling silver ring doesn't have to be difficult, but there are certain things you should consider. For one, you should clean your ring with soap and water or baking soda if it's tarnished. Also, protecting your ring from the sun and cleaning chemicals will also help.

To learn more about sterling silver, check out the products we have here.

5 Benefits of Sterling Silver Jewelry You Should Know About

The earliest piece of jewelry dates back between 142,000 and 150,000 years ago. 33 beads made from snail shells were found in a cave in Morocco proving that jewelry has always been an integral part of society.

Having the right jewelry can accentuate your outfits. Whether you're going out for a night on the town or just adding to your everyday styles, you want to look and feel your best. But sometimes, finding the right piece of jewelry that's both functional and affordable can be a challenge if you don't know what to look for.

That's where Sterling Silver jewelry comes in. This beautiful metal can offer you the versatility you need for enhancing your jewelry collection. If you want to know more, keep reading below for 5 wonderful benefits you need to know.

1. Sterling Silver Jewelry is Long-Lasting

On average, Sterling Silver jewelry can last between 20-30 years. But with the proper care, you can actually rely on your Sterling Silver pieces can last a lifetime and even become heirlooms you pass down to the next generation of wearers.

Always store your Sterling Silver jewelry items properly. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from sources of moisture which can cause it to tarnish. Polish it with a soft, dry jeweler's cloth and silver polish regularly.

You can also make your own Sterling Silver cleaner with a solution of baking soda and white distilled vinegar. Watered-down toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush will also help to keep your Sterling Silver looking good. Mild dish soap is also an option to remove tarnish safely.

Avoid spraying perfumes and deodorants directly onto the surface of the Sterling Silver jewelry. All of these tips will allow you to get the most wear out of your Sterling Silver and extend its longevity.

2. Sterling Silver is an Alloy

Pure silver on its own is too soft, so it isn't strong enough to make durable jewelry from. But Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% other metal alloys mixed in to make it stronger and more durable. It relies on this 7.5% alloy content to give it its strength and shape.

You're still getting beautifully crafted silver pieces with the added benefit of alloys for strength. This means that your Sterling Silver pieces won't dent or scratch like pure silver can. Your jewelry pieces will be strong and beautiful meaning you can wear them as an accent for your everyday wardrobe without worrying about damage.

Sterling silver jewelry provides the same strength and silver sheen for jewelry pieces compared to platinum and white gold, but for a fraction of the price. You are receiving the most silver for your money while also obtaining the functionality of attractive jewelry.

3. Sterling Silver is More Affordable

Gold and platinum jewelry are highly sought after, but the high cost can make it difficult to accumulate multiple pieces to expand your jewelry accessories collection. Sterling Silver is also an easier type of metal to produce because silver is a more abundant metal source than gold. This leads to Sterling Silver having a low cost associated with its production.

Since Sterling Silver is a more cost-effective way to buy jewelry, you will be able to buy more jewelry for the same price as one gold or platinum piece. You can afford to have a wider repertoire of Sterling Silver pieces in your jewelry wardrobe. You can find everything from Sterling Silver necklaces to bracelets, earrings, and rings.

This makes it a much more fun and easy process for finding the right piece to complement your outfits. Your jewelry will look and feel high quality without worrying about needing a high budget. You'll also be able to build up your personal brand.

4. Sterling Silver Can Be Gold Plated

Silver is one of the most conductive types of metal. It has even more conductivity than copper. Because Sterling Silver is 92.5% pure silver with only 7.5% consisting of alloys, this makes Sterling Silver ideal to use for gold plating.

The process of gold plating, also known as electroplating, involves running an electrical current through a solution of liquefied gold. The positive ions in the gold solution are drawn to another piece of metal like Sterling Silver. These gold ions adhere to the surface of the Sterling Silver metal.

What you get in return is a gorgeous piece of jewelry that has all of the best qualities of gold and silver in one. You'll have the durability of Sterling Silver with the added luster of gold. This gives you more options for finding the right piece of jewelry to add to your collection.

Gold-plated jewelry pieces over Sterling Silver metal are also a more affordable jewelry option for those who want the look and feel of real gold without the hefty price tag attached.

5. Sterling Silver is Versatile

Sterling Silver lets you play around with your looks effortlessly. You can find the styles that make your outfits pop. Sterling Silver also allows you to express your personal style brand with the designs, styles, and accent stones that appeal most to you.

You can wear multiple Sterling Silver chains together for an elegantly layered look. Sterling Silver also goes from daytime wear to nighttime wear in a snap. So, you'll always look like your style is on point.

Sterling Silver gives you just the right amount of bling for whatever occasion you need. Stack multiple Sterling Silver rings on one finger or choose a stunning cocktail ring as a focal piece of jewelry.

Wearing Sterling Silver complements every outfit. You can look professional and stylish or sophisticated and tasteful. Whether you want to go big and bold or small and delicate, Sterling Silver jewelry comes in all sizes and designs for every taste preference.

Find More Sterling Silver Jewelry Designs at costumeiscounters

Women everywhere are embracing the power that comes with wearing good jewelry. Jewelry can boost your mood and make you feel unstoppable. If you're having trouble finding the right piece of jewelry, look no further than costumeiscounters.

costumeiscounters believes in providing every woman with the affordable luxury they deserve to look their best every day. You can find beautiful and affordable Sterling Silver jewelry necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets, and jewelry gift sets. You can build your personal brand and express yourself in style.

Browse our newest collections of Sterling Silver jewelry designs on our website today.

7 Things You Should Know About Silver Jewelry

Are you interested in learning about silver jewelry? Then check out some things you should consider before making your next purchase.

Keyword(s): silver jewelry

Silver has always been a popular choice for jewelry, decor, and more. However, sterling silver jewelry is making a comeback in a big way. More and more people are choosing silver jewelry over gold to stay up to date with the latest beauty trends.

If you're looking to add more jewelry to your jewelry box, here are seven things you should know about silver jewelry before your next purchase.

1. Different Types of Silver

Before you make your purchase, you should be aware that there are three main types of silver on the market. Let's take a close look at each of them.

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is the most common and found in most silver jewelry. Sterling silver is made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. The addition of copper makes sterling silver hard and also malleable, making it easy to work with and create different kinds of jewelry such as necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings.

You'll want to be sure you are purchasing real sterling silver before handing over your credit card. All sterling silver pieces are marked and stamped with a .925 or an abbreviation of "sterling" to let you know it's real.

Fine Silver

Fine silver is the purest form of silver at 99.9%. Fine silver may seem like the best type of silver to use for jewelry, but it is actually a very soft metal. Because of this, it can be easily damaged and can change form over time.

Silver Plate

The metal that makes up a silver-plated product is not actually silver, but another metal that is then covered with a thin silver plate on top. Depending on the type of metal used, such as copper, your jewelry can be pretty durable. However, because it is only a coating, silver-plated jewelry can tarnish easily. 

Silver-plated jewelry is considered a lower-quality silver and is therefore much less expensive than sterling. 

2. How to Maintain Your Jewelry 

Even though sterling silver is the most durable of all silver jewelry, it can tarnish when exposed to heat, air, or moisture. However, there are some precautions you can take to help prolong this. 

The first step in maintaining your jewelry is to keep it dry. Remember to take off your silver jewelry before taking a shower or swimming. The sweat and grease from your hands can also cause corrosion over time. You should also avoid getting lotions or serums on your jewelry.

You can also store your items in closed storage spaces so they aren't overly exposed to air. Purchase anti-tarnish bags to help keep them enclosed.

How to Clean Silver Jewelry

Keeping your jewelry clean is a great way to keep it staying shiny and fresh. Be sure to give your pieces a cleaning once a month or after each use if possible. 

Silver jewelry cleaner or polish are great cleaning methods. There are also many home remedies you can use instead of polish. Try washing with warm water and soap. You can also use toothpaste, baking powder, or vinegar to keep your silver clean. 

3. Are You Allergic to Silver?

One of the reasons why sterling silver is so popular is because most people with allergies can wear it without having an allergic reaction. Nickel-free metals, like silver, are commonly known for being hypoallergenic. 

There is, however, a small exception to this rule. We know that sterling silver is also made with 7.5% of other metals. Most often, the 7.5% is copper, which is also nickel-free. However, if the other 7.5% is made up of non-nickel-free metals, you could potentially have an allergic reaction to the jewelry. 

An allergic reaction can cause your skin to turn red and itchy. To avoid this, your best bet is to go with sterling silver jewelry that has the smallest chance of causing an allergic reaction.

4. How to Style Your Jewelry 

Silver jewelry is beautiful on its own, but there are ways to style your jewelry to keep it looking fresh and new. Jewelry layering, for example, is a big trend in the beauty world. Layer your necklaces with one long and one short to create some definition and a sophisticated look. 

You can also compliment your stand-out silver with more subtle pieces. Try wearing small rings to support a pair of large hoop earrings to help them stand out and complete the look. You can also utilize your silver chains with a variety of different pendants and stones to constantly create new looks.

5. Different Ways to Buy

If you're looking for one piece of silver jewelry, there are many retailers whose quality you can trust. However, it is still important to check their credibility by looking at reviews when purchasing higher-priced items.

If you're looking to purchase wholesale silver jewelry, you may want to shop around to find the right seller. Artists who need silver for jewelry-making businesses or hobbies should buy wholesale to get the most bang for their buck, as bigger quantities often result in bigger discounts. 

Be sure you look for a reputable wholesaler with loads of positive reviews and testimonials. Schedule a consultation with their staff before buying so you can go over the terms of your purchase.

6. Sterling Silver vs. Gold

When purchasing jewelry, consumers tend to buy silver or gold pieces. Both are precious high-quality metals and very durable. In fact, sterling silver and white gold are easy metals to mix up because of their similar color and look.

The biggest difference between sterling silver and gold is the price. Gold, white gold, and rose gold tend to be about 75 times more than the price of sterling silver. Although sterling silver is less expensive, it is still a durable, beautiful metal that makes for some amazing jewelry items. 

7. Value

Sterling silver is an inexpensive option when buying jewelry. However, it also holds a ton of value!

Silver can be worth up to $20 an ounce or more depending on if it's vintage, what type of silver it is, and if it was well taken care of. If you're looking to sell some of your older silver pieces—including tableware, picture frames, and jewelry—rest assured that you can make a decent profit. 

Silver Jewelry

There are many ways in which you can purchase, wear, maintain, and even sell your silver jewelry. Be sure you know the type of silver you're buying and the best way to prolong its life and shine, and don't forget to have fun styling your jewelry with other pieces and clothing. 

For more information about silver jewelry, visit our blog today!

Sterling Silver Jewelry Cleaner: How to Clean Your Sterling Silver

Are you wanting to clean up your sterling silvery jewelry? Check out how to get your hands on the best sterling silver jewelry cleaner options.

Keyword(s): sterling silver jewelry cleaner

Fast fashion has made for a speedy turnover in our apparel and even speedier in our jewelry collections. 

Poor quality trinkets and accessories feel more like disposable jewelry from fast-fashion retailers.

If you are ready to upgrade your jewelry collection and begin acquiring some timeless, high-quality pieces, you will need to know how to take care of them. Sterling silver is beautiful, versatile, and can last you a long time - if you know how to treat it. 

Getting your sterling silver jewelry cleaner and shinier than ever might be easier than you think. 

Keep reading to find out what you need to bring shine and sparkle back in your silver. 

Quick Tips for Sterling Silver Jewelry Care  

Sterling silver is a great nickel-free metal for jewelry because it is hypoallergenic. It is used for piercings and accessories because it is safe to use with its silver and copper combination.

Before we get into the details of cleaning your sterling silver jewelry, here are some rules for general maintenance. 

Silver becomes tarnished after it has been exposed to heat, air, or moisture. It may not be possible to completely avoid the elements to protect your favorite pieces but these tips can help you maintain their shine. 

• Store jewelry in a dark, place and use anti-tarnish bags 
• Ensure the temperature is cool and limit the humidity 
• Use a piece of chalk or bag of charcoal to help absorb moisture 
• Avoiding exposing jewelry to extra moisture by leaving it in the bathroom 
• Do not wear jewelry while swimming, bathing, or washing dishes 
• Put on your jewelry only after you've used lotions and perfumes  

You may be surprised to know that actually wearing your silver is one of the best ways to keep it from tarnishing. The friction created while you wear your silver keeps it shiny. 

So, if your partner is waiting for a special occasion to wear their sterling silver men's jewelry, encourage them to wear their pieces daily. 

How to Get Your Sterling Silver Jewelry Cleaner Than Ever 

If your silver has started to tarnish or lose its shine, there are many ways to clean it. You will also be happy to know that you likely carry all of these household silver cleaning items already. 

Clean Sterling Silver Using Toothpaste 

You may have heard of this one before. Toothpaste is a classic solution to silver cleaning. Yes, we know that toothpaste is meant to clean your teeth but it's also great for polishing your favorite silver pieces. 

Polish the Silver 

You can use regular or organic toothpaste to prepare. You want to use a soft cloth so that you don't scratch the silver while you polish it. Place a small amount of toothpaste onto the cloth and buff for a few minutes. 

Rinse and Dry 

Use warm water to rinse the silver, ensuring that all of the excess toothpaste has been washed away. Use a clean dry cloth to pat the silver dry. 

Clean Sterling Silver With Vinegar 

Vinegar is a great, organic alternative to household cleaners. It's non-toxic, easy to make at home, and safe for everyone in the family to use. 

Use a Liner 

Before you begin cleaning your sterling silver with vinegar, line a baking pan with aluminum foil. You want to make sure that the foil is placed with the shiny side up. 

Boil the Contents 

Mix one part vinegar with four parts water and pour the solution onto the baking pan. When the solution is boiling, place silver onto the pan and let sit for five minutes. 

Dry the Silver

Rinse the silver pieces with water and use a clean towel to dry off excess water. Ensure that you store your silver somewhere cool and dark, away from moisture. 

Clean Sterling Silver With Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is one of the lesser-known silver cleaning solutions. It can be used to remove spots, smudges, or tarnishing. This is also a great way to disinfect sterling silver body jewelry.

The chemicals in rubbing alcohol can be damaging to certain metals and gemstones like emeralds and opals. Be cautious if your silver has accents or adornments that are made up of precious metals. 

Mix the Solution 

Using a clean bowl, pour in four parts water and one part rubbing alcohol. You can also use a plastic container for the solution.  

Buff the Silver 

Using a clean and damp towel, polish the silver gently. Ensure to focus on areas that have smudging and discoloration, as they will need more attention.

Wash and Dry

Use a microfiber towel to pat the silver dry. By now, your silver should be shiny and sparkly. It is ready for use or ready to be stored safely until you are ready to use it. 

Clean Sterling Silver With Dish Soap 

One of the easiest ways to clean your silver is simply using water and dish soap.

If you have some sterling silver women's jewelry that is delicate, this is a great cleaning option. It is also meant for pieces that have dulled but are not badly tarnished. 

Now we must reiterate - never try to clean your silver in the dishwasher. 

Hot Water and Suds

Mix dish soap with hot or warm water. Use a microfiber cloth to dip into the sudsy solution and rub the silver with the cloth.

Buff and Dry 

Rinse the silver with cold water and pat dry with a clean, dry towel. Here you can buff once more when the silver has dried. 

The Bottom Line on Cleaning Sterling Silver Jewelry

Keeping your silver clean and shiny is easy with these handy tips. Simply using vinegar, toothpaste, dish soap, or rubbing alcohol, you can get your sterling silver jewelry cleaner and shinier. Best of all, with regular use, you can keep your silver clean and avoid tarnish. 

Shining, shimmering, splendid.  

For more beautiful sterling silver pieces, check out our website for exclusive collections. 

How to Clean Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver Jewelry Pieces

Rhodium-plated sterling silver is lovely but requires special maintenance and care. Here's how to clean your rhodium-plated sterling silver jewelry.

Keyword(s): rhodium-plated sterling silver

Do you struggle with figuring out how to clean your rhodium-plated jewelry? Are you afraid you'll accidentally use the wrong product or ruin your brand new necklace's shiny finish?

Rhodium-plated sterling silver is becoming more and more popular for its durability, resistance to scratches, and beautiful white shine. 

But just like any high-quality jewelry, it needs to be properly taken care of so that it lasts as long as possible. 

Luckily, cleaning rhodium-plated jewelry requires only a few simple tools and techniques to keep your jewelry collection looking high-end for as long as possible. Keep reading for our guide on how to clean rhodium-plated sterling silver. 

What Is Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver?

If you're not quite sure of what rhodium is, you might ask, "Is rhodium-plated sterling silver good?" If you're looking for luxury at an affordable cost, then rhodium-plated jewelry is for you.

Rhodium is a precious metal that comes from the family of platinum. It's durable, reflective, and scratch-resistant, as well as hypoallergenic. It gives a beautiful white sheen to your jewelry and can make gemstones stand out more than plain silver can. 

If you're unsure about cleaning rhodium-plated vs sterling silver, then you'll be glad to know that rhodium is easier to clean. Although sterling silver is a common jewelry material, it's well known that it tarnishes upon exposure to air. Even worse, high humidity and moist products like hairspray or perfume speed up the tarnishing process. 

Rhodium, on the other hand, doesn't tarnish. It's scratch-resistant, keeps its shine, and doesn't corrode or dent. Best of all, it won't leave your hands green after handling it.  

When in doubt, always consult an expert if you're scared that you'll damage your jewelry while cleaning it.

Cleaning Products To Avoid

Before you actually go ahead and start cleaning your rhodium-plated sterling silver jewelry, let's bring up the cleaning products you should avoid using on this jewelry at all costs. 

• Harsh chemicals
• Anything abrasive
• Toothbrushes or toothpaste
• Polishing cloths for silver or gold

Harsh chemicals should never be used on your jewelry, whether it's sterling silver or rhodium-plated. Although rhodium is durable against scratches, you don't want to damage the plating by using the wrong materials on it.

Supplies You'll Need

Don't be alarmed at this list of supplies as most of them can already be found in your home. You may need to get a polishing cloth if you don't have one already, but otherwise, you should have everything in your kitchen cabinet. You'll need:

• Two bowls
• Mild detergent
• A soft towel or a microfiber cloth
• A soft polishing cloth (optional)

If you have multiple pieces of rhodium-plated jewelry to clean, consider waiting to clean them all at once to save time.

Additionally, if you decide to use a microfiber cloth, make sure it hasn't been treated with any chemicals. The goal is to avoid using anything harsh on your rhodium-plated jewelry, whether that's a chemical or an abrasive material.

Steps To Clean Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver Jewelry

Now that you have your supplies and your jewelry ready, let's start cleaning. If you're unfamiliar with the steps, just take it slow so that you don't damage anything by accident. You'll get used to the cleaning process eventually and your jewelry will look all the better for it.

Prepare Your Bowls

First, fill one of the bowls with 1 cup of warm water.

Then, add 1/3 of a cup of mild detergent to the bowl with warm water. Mix to combine. This will be your washing bowl. 

You'll use one of the bowls to wash your jewelry and the other bowl to rinse it, so remember which is which. Fill the other bowl with room temperature water. Don't add anything else to this bowl, as it will be your rinsing bowl.

Wash

Put your rhodium-plated silver jewelry in the washing bowl. It's important to let it soak for ten minutes to remove any dirt that may have gotten stuck on the surface.

Then, gently rub the jewelry with your fingers to clean it. As mentioned above, do not use toothbrushes or any abrasive materials. Rhodium doesn't tarnish, so your fingers will be able to do the job.

Make sure that you don't leave your jewelry in the detergent mixture for longer than 15 minutes. This includes cleaning time, so consider using a timer.

Rinse

Now, transfer your washed jewelry to the rinsing bowl. Rinse your jewelry in the water. You can replace the water in the bowl as many times as you want, but just make sure to keep using room temperature water.

The important thing in this step is to remove all the soap residue, and a good indicator is whether your rinsing water looks soapy or clear. Always be gentle even when rinsing so you don't damage the plating on your jewelry.

Dry

Place your jewelry on a soft towel or a microfiber cloth. The softer the towel the better, so if you have something made of Egyptian cotton, then use that. 

Gently pat the jewelry dry. Remember that friction is what causes the plating to come off, so the gentler you are, the longer the rhodium plating will last.

Let the jewelry dry overnight if needed. It's better to let it air dry than to rub it too much and wear off the plating. If you need to wear the jewelry to a special occasion, consider washing it a few days beforehand so that you're not hurriedly rubbing the jewelry dry.

Store

Before storing your jewelry, you can optionally polish it. If you're using a polishing cloth, make sure to use one that's gentle. Often, this would be a cloth that's used for diamonds or other luxurious gems.

Carefully store your jewelry in a jewelry box. To prevent more friction or rubbing, consider wrapping the jewelry in a layer of tissue paper. You could also store it in a separate compartment of your jewelry box or in a soft velvet jewelry bag.

Treat Yourself To Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver Today

As you can see, rhodium-plated sterling silver jewelry is durable, beautiful, and easy to maintain, as long as you take the right steps to care for it. When cleaning your rhodium-plated jewelry, always remember to avoid harsh chemicals, don't rub your jewelry too much, and always be gentle. These steps will keep your jewelry looking shiny and brand new for as long as possible. 

Are you ready to add some luxurious rhodium jewelry to your collection? From earrings to necklaces, take a look at our beautiful selection of rhodium-plated sterling silver today. 

Sterling silver jewelry has certain features that sets it apart from other jewelry. Here are the top 4 distinct qualities of sterling jewelry.

Keyword(s): sterling silver jewelry

Are you looking to upgrade your favorite jewelry? Or are you wondering what qualities to search for in new jewelry?

Sterling silver jewelry is a staple of many different looks. Whether you're going out on the town or grabbing drinks with friends. Sterling silver can transform your entire look. 

If you want to get the best bang for your buck, you'll need to know exactly what qualities of sterling silver to look for. Follow these tips to find sterling silver jewelry and style your best looks yet. 

What Is Sterling Silver?

Before you begin looking for sterling silver jewelry, you must know what is it. 

Silver is similar in composition to gold and copper. Because it's a soft metal, it is more malleable, or flexible. This also means that sterling silver has a high polish to it, giving it its characteristic shine. 

Silver is one of the oldest metals discovered by humans. In prehistoric times, silver was more difficult to mine than gold, making it more expensive. Since that time, however, silver is more easily mass-refined, making it a cheaper alternative to gold. 

In terms of purity, fine silver is 99.9% silver, making it the highest quality available. Sterling silver, however, has 7.5% copper added for a total of 92.5% of silver. 

The alloy, a metal blend, makes the silver easier to work with without it falling apart. This is how there are several different designs and patterns in sterling silver. 

Below, the 7 things you need to know about sterling silver before you buy. 

1. Damage to Sterling Silver

Since sterling silver jewelry has a small amount of copper in it, it tarnishes more quickly than fine silver. When sterling silver tarnishes, it will begin to turn black or brown. This happens even more quickly in humid or tropical conditions. 

To get rid of tarnish, use a jewelry cleaner specifically for sterling silver. Once you've washed away the tarnish, your silver will lay underneath, unblemished. The tarnish lays on top of the silver, so your jewelry will be back to beautiful in no time!

To prevent rusting and damage to your sterling silver jewelry, take it off when showering or swimming. Keep your jewelry as dry as possible for long-lasting results. 

To prevent corrosion to your jewelry, keep your fingers off of it. Oils and grease from hands, cooking, or other tasks can wear away at your jewelry. 

You may also want to store your sterling silver away from other types of jewelry to prevent rubbing. When your pieces rub together, they can tarnish the softer silver. 

2. Sterling Silver Is Hypoallergenic

One huge plus to sterling silver is that it is hypoallergenic! This means that you can wear your favorite pieces every day and the chances of having an allergic reaction are very low. 

This is due to the fact that many people react to the nickel in jewelry. Sterling silver, though, only being comprised of silver and copper, contains a much lower chance of containing nickel. 

3. Sterling Silver Versatility

Though sterling silver is a soft metal, the addition of copper strengthens the mixture. This means that sterling silver is extremely versatile. 

Jewelers make sterling silver jewelry in all types of forms and designs. From necklaces to bracelets, to earrings, sterling silver is a great choice. You can also find each of these with elaborate designs and variations. 

Since sterling silver has a high shine, it pairs well alone as accents to your outfits. You can pair similar styles of different pieces together and they coordinate perfectly. 

Or, if you want to mix things up, find sterling silver paired with your favorite gems. Embedded diamonds and gemstones will instantly spice up your outfit without going over the top. Or, choose pearls for a classic and elegant look. 

Another benefit of silver is that because it's easily molded, your jewelry can be resized in minutes. At many jewelers, you can drop your rings off and have them resized within an hour. 

4. Sterling Silver Finishes

Sterling silver has an iconic shine. This characteristic is intrinsic and is procured by the metal. 

But, if you want your jewelry to be tarnish-resistant, coat your pieces in rhodium. This platinum metal ensures that your silver won't tarnish or corrode while keeping its signature shine. 

How to Tell if It's Sterling Silver Jewelry

If you're hesitant of buying sterling silver, be sure to ask the jeweler to walk you through the elements of the jewelry before purchasing. Keep the 4 qualities listed above in mind when at the store. 

Then, be sure to try the pieces on before buying them. Though you won't be able to wear them for an extended time, you will have an idea of it the silver irritates your skin. If so, the silver is likely not sterling. 

Ask the jeweler about the metals in the alloy as well. This will help you determine the amount of silver in the piece. Sterling silver always contains 92.5% silver. 

If you are hesitant or want to know more about the piece, ask for the hallmark. Most sterling silver pieces have a hallmark that tells everything about the silver. Or, be sure to look out for markings on the silver as well to steer clear of any fakes. 

Ready to Buy? 

Are you ready to buy sterling silver jewelry to add to your everyday looks? From day to night, sterling silver makes any look complete and together.

Want to buy quality sterling silver and enjoy free shipping in the United States on orders over $50? Check out our wide variety of sterling silver rings, necklaces, bracelets, and more! 

Wondering how to clean jewelry? Well, look no further; there are several effective DIY methods to make your jewelry look as good as new. Read more to find out.

Keyword(s): how to clean jewelry

The jewelry you wear is an important part of your personality and style, so if it looks dull, it can take away from your fashionable aesthetic.

Whatever you love to wear, it's crucial to know how to clean jewelry so you can keep it looking its absolute best.

From necklaces to bracelets and rings, read on to discover some tips about jewelry cleaning so that all your pieces continue to shine.

Make Your Silver Shine 

Silver is a stunning metal that looks amazing with virtually any outfit. To keep it clean, start with some standard jewelry cleaning products, like high-quality liquid silver polish.

Never apply the silver polish solution using an abrasive material. Instead, gently wipe it clean in circular motions with a soft microfiber cloth or a cotton pad.

If you want a quicker way to do some silver jewelry cleaning, try silver polish wipes. These convenient wipes are designed just for silver and typically feature two sides. One side cleans the silver jewelry and removes unsightly tarnish, while the other side buffs it to a bright shine.

You can also just gently buff any dull spots with a microfiber cloth alone. Start on the underside of your jewelry just to make sure that it works well before you finish cleaning the surface that people will see. For example, polish the back of a beautiful pendant, then finish with the front once you confirm it looks good. 

Most silver polish and jewelry cleaning products are affordable, but you can also try some DIY jewelry cleaning methods, too. Let's take a closer look at some ways you can clean your jewelry with a few things you already have lying around the home.

How to Clean Jewelry DIY

Before you try any of these DIY cleaning methods, it's important to note that none of them will keep the tarnish from returning. Store bough silver polishes have a special solution that cleans the jewelry and leaves a protective finish behind.

However, if you need to know how to clean jewelry in a pinch. these DIY solutions can be extremely helpful. If you have silver-plated jewelry, just be aware that rubbing it too vigorously or too often can start to wear the finish off.

The first method to clean your jewelry is to mix a few drops of regular liquid dish soap (like Dawn Ultra) into a small bowl of warm water. Dip your microfiber cloth into the mixture, then gently rub it onto your jewelry until the tarnish is removed. When you're done, rinse your jewelry with some cool water and buff it dry with a new cloth.

Baking soda does a great job of removing heavier tarnish and discoloration. Mix three parts baking soda to one part water until it forms a paste-like consistency.

Wet your silver jewelry and apply the paste with a soft cloth. Gently work the cloth into the crevices of your jewelry and turn it as the cloth starts to pick up the tarnish. Rinse the jewelry well, then buff it dry.

If you don't have dish soap or baking soda handy, you can also try the toothpaste method. Make sure you use a white-colored style of toothpaste and not a gel. 

Apply a small dab of toothpaste to your silver jewelry, then gently rub it with your finger or a soft, lint-free cloth. Rinse it well with slightly warm water, then buff it dry with the cloth until it's bright and shiny. 

Tips for Cleaning Precious and Semi-Precious Stones

From Roman glass to Baltic amber, it's important to be especially careful when cleaning jewelry made with precious stones. You can return your jewelry to its beautiful, original shine with some easy jewelry cleaning methods.

Start by mixing a few drops of dish soap into some seltzer water. The carbonation in the water can help to gently loosen solid and debris that can get trapped in between settings and on facets.

Once you make your mixture, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your stones clean. Dip the jewelry in some clear water to rinse it clean. You can also place your jewelry in a strainer and rinse it under running water - just make sure you use a sink stopper to prevent it from accidentally falling down the drain!

After you've finished gently polishing your precious or semi-precious stones, buff them dry with a clean microfiber cloth. If you're ever in a pinch and need to do some touch-ups, try a jewelry cleaning stick. These portable jewelry cleaning products can fit easily into your purse and make it easy to polish small areas fast.

Whatever jewelry cleaning method you choose, the key is to make sure that you always rinse cleaning solutions thoroughly after you're done. Softly polishing or buffing the jewelry and letting it dry are also important steps to ensure that it's perfectly clean and ready to be worn again.

Getting Sparkly and Shiny Jewelry is Easy

Once you know how to clean jewelry and make it brilliant again, you can wear all of your favorite pieces in confidence. No matter what type of jewelry you love to wear, regular cleaning sessions will keep it looking shiny and give it a brilliant finish.

Always use soft, lint-free cloths and gentle motions to avoid scratching your stunning jewelry so it's protected from damage. Clean it regularly to reap the benefits of a bright, beautiful piece of jewelry you'll love to show off.

If you're ready to check out some incredible new jewelry to elevate your look, be sure to browse our new arrivals today!

How Do You Keep Sterling Silver From Turning Your Finger Green?

If you're not sure how to keep sterling silver from turning your finger green, then we've got your back. Find out why and how to stop it here!

Keyword(s): Turning Your Finger Green

You've had a long day at work. You come home and feverishly ditch your work clothes for your favorite pair of comfy pants and take off your jewelry, only to look down at your hands and see a green stain where your favorite ring used to be. The ring is turning your finger green!

First of all, there's no need to panic - you're not breaking out into a rash or having an allergic reaction, and you definitely don't need to toss your favorite ring into the garbage.

Does Sterling Silver Turn Your Finger Green?

Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% of silver. However, it's not strong by itself (it takes on a liquid form), so the other 7.5% is a combination of other metals; most commonly, copper and zinc. These other metals give sterling silver its durability to be used in items like jewelry, plates, and silverware. 

When a ring turns your finger green, it doesn't necessarily mean that it's a cheap piece of jewelry. This is a common misconception - all metals oxidize at some point, regardless of the worth of the piece.

Your finger turns green from sterling silver because of a chemical reaction between the metal and your skin. Copper is usually the culprit; it reacts with the pH levels on your skin to create the green color where your skin and the metal meet.

Take a look at the hand cream next to your bed, too - some of the chemicals in these creams will also cause the metal to oxidize, even if your skin isn't normally sensitive.

Keep scrolling for tips on how to stop a ring from turning your finger green.

Give It The Clear Nail Polish Treatment

Clear nail polish has become the duct tape of the fashion world - it's a fixer, and the same is true for sterling silver jewelry. Use the polish on the inside of your ring to create a barrier between the silver and the skin. However, it's not a permanent fix and you'll have to reapply as needed.

Keep Your Hands Dry

A simple solution is to take off your rings before you shower, wash your hands, go swimming, etc. This is much easier said-than-done, of course, but it's something to keep in mind.

Swimming is a big one, as the chlorine in pool water can cause damage to your jewelry.

Apply A Polymer Barrier To Stop Your Ring From Turning Your Finger Green

This is a method that tends to be more effective than clear nail polish, and it's not too expensive, either. Just like the nail polish, you'll need to re-apply every few weeks.

This is also a safer bet than clear nail polish, as it's specifically made for jewelry and won't cause any damage to your rings.

Pickle That Ring!

Yes, you read that right but don't run to your fridge and wolf down a whole jar of dills just yet.

You're going to want to use a combination of water and ammonia, which you can purchase at the grocery store. Use a 50/50 mix of both ingredients and soak your sterling silver ring in it for two full days.

How To Get Rid Of Your Green Finger 

You’re probably looking down at your hand as you scroll through these suggestions and thinking, "That's great, but my finger is already green. How do get the discoloration off my skin?"

First of all, it's not a permanent discoloration, so you don't need to worry about any long-term effects. In rare cases, a person can develop a copper allergy if the problem is not dealt with in a timely manner.

Ideally, your skin should go back to normal in a few hours. If it doesn't, lor you just can't stand to look at the stain anymore, you can remove it yourself.

First, use warm water on a washcloth, along with a couple of drops of liquid soap. Then, rub the cloth on your skin to remove the stain. Rinse your hands afterward.

If this doesn't do the trick, rubbing alcohol is also an option. Grab a cotton ball, wet it, and then apply the rubbing alcohol to it. This should remove the excess staining from your fingers.

Of course, another problem could be that there is some of that green gunk stuck to the inside of your ring. It's called verdigris (pronounced 'verda-greez') and it can eat away at your jewelry over time if you don't remove it.

A toothbrush is the safest way to do it, as the soft bristles won't damage or scratch your jewelry. For super small spots, a toothpick will work as well. For newer spots, a pencil eraser will also do the trick.

White vinegar mixed with water is a good solvent to use for tougher stains; you can soak your jewelry in the mix for a half-hour and then scrub. Do NOT use the white vinegar mix on pieces that have foil backings or pearls.

After removing the green stuff, you're going to want to use a metal polish to shine up your piece.

This Applies To ALL Sterling Silver Jewelry

These tips don't just apply to rings; you can use the same methods to clean up and prevent verdigris buildup on necklaces, bracelets, etc.

Finally, if all else fails, you might want to consider another piece of jewelry. If you're looking for rings that won't turn your finger green, look for rhodium-plated rings or rings that are made of stainless steel and platinum.

While these items can be a bit more pricey than sterling silver, you can be confident in knowing that they won't turn your skin green, no matter how many times you wash your hands.

The best long-term method is to clean your rings and other sterling silver jewelry regularly and make sure that you remove them to avoid getting your hands wet.

Still Feeling Green? 

For more tips on how to take care of your favorite sterling silver items, check out on our costumeiscounters Jewelry blog. 

If you have questions about sterling silver turning your finger green, feel free to contact us or call us at (+385) 927176127. Happy shopping, jewelry lovers!

How Long Does It Take for Sterling Silver to Tarnish?

Sterling silver is a popular option for jewelry. But how long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish? Click here to learn some tips on how to prevent this!

Keyword(s): how long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish 

Sterling silver is stronger and more durable than both regular silver and gold. For these reasons, and the sheer number of traditional and modern artisans working in sterling silver, this type of jewelry is some of the most popular.

But how long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish? 

That question is more complicated than it would first seem. Sterling silver can begin to tarnish in anywhere from 2 months to 3 years, but don't let that worry you.

Tarnish is no big deal and there are simple ways to clean and prevent it.

What Is Sterling Silver?

Real silver, or silver with close to 99.9% purity, is just too soft for use as jewelry. To make it stronger and more durable, silver is mixed with copper and sometimes zinc or nickel to strengthen the precious metal. This silver alloy is called sterling silver and is generally about 92.5% pure. 

Other types of silver include coin silver or silver plating. Coin silver is another composite alloy and is generally no more than 90% pure.

Silver plating is a coating of sterling silver over a less valuable metal. With silver plating, the sterling silver coating will eventually wear away and look less desirable.

The name sterling silver most likely comes to a type of silver coin that was originally minted by Britain's King Henry II, due to its steady value and durability. It is believed the coins, at 92.5 % purity, were known as "Easterling coins." This name was soon shortened from Easterling to just sterling.

Today, the best silver artisans work in sterling silver, following in the footsteps of icons like Charles Lewis Tiffany and Sotirios Bulgaris.  

To easily tell if a piece of jewelry is sterling silver, it'll be stamped with "925," a reference to the silver's purity rating. 

What Is Tarnish?

When metals are exposed to the air, they experience a chemical process called oxidation. This oxidation can produce a number of different outcomes from rust on steel to tarnish on silver. 

The silver alloy is actually combining with latent sulfur in the air released from natural organic decomposition and environmental factors like volcanic eruptions and pollution. The chemical reaction between silver and sulfur creates silver sulfide, which is black. 

Tarnish, therefore, is a thin film of this silver sulfide on your sterling silver. 

On a large sterling silver platter, for instance, this tarnish can look like a patina of brown over the serving vessel. On a silver locket, the tarnish can appear as spots of discoloration on the piece's face or chain. 

How Long Does It Take for Sterling Silver to Tarnish?

That depends. As stated above, the amount of time it takes for the tarnish to form depends on the amount of exposure the sterling silver piece exposed to air.

Also, natural oils in the skin can help speed up the oxidation.

In a controlled environment, it could take sterling silver a couple of years to tarnish. Or if the piece is constantly worn without applying preventative steps, it could take just a few months for the piece to begin to show signs of tarnish. 

How to Clean Sterling Silver

So what can you do? Preventing sterling silver from tarnishing is really no big deal and takes just a few seconds or minutes.

The best way to prevent your favorite pieces of sterling silver jewelry from tarnishing is to clean them after wearing. Not only will this remove any dirt or natural oils that may have accumulated, but it'll also prevent the chemical process of oxidation.

To wash your sterling silver, use warm water, scrub gently with a cloth, and then dry. You can even wash your sterling silver while you shower, just as long as you dry the piece afterward.

A word of caution: Wearing your sterling silver in the shower is not the same as wearing it in the pool. The chlorine, like your body's natural oils, can accelerate the potential for oxidation and tarnish.

Another way to prevent tarnish is to keep your pieces in an airtight jewelry box. Latent chemicals in the air fuel oxidation. So by limiting exposure to air, you'll reduce the oxidation. 

Another method for reducing tarnish is to add a tarnish tab to your jewelry box. These paper strips help pull the sulfur and moisture out of the air and away from your sterling silver jewelry.  They come in a range of styles and their duration of effectiveness varies by manufacturer. 

Removing Tarnish

If you already have tarnish spots on your sterling silver, there are a couple of methods to remove the blemishes depending on the extent of the oxidation.

For light tarnish or spotting, scrubbing with a specially coated anti-tarnish cloth can remove the discoloration. However, be careful not to overuse the tarnish cloth because it can sometimes reduce the luster of your jewelry. 

Also, for light tarnishing, a toothbrush and light baking soda and water mixture can also do the trick. Scrub lightly with the toothbrush and solution and dry thoroughly.

For heavy tarnishing and full discoloration, an over-the-counter tarnish remover is probably called for. Searching for a silver cleaner or "silver dip" will produce a number of results. One of the more popular products is Wright's Silver Cleaner and Polish Cream.

Sterling Silver Is Right for You

Sterling silver is perennially popular by consumers and jewelers because of its strength, malleability, and an endless parade of designs.

Maybe, more importantly, sterling silver is an affordable precious metal that expresses a timeless quality. Many of the designs are pieces are exclusive and make a statement about the wearers' focus and brand. 

When you are wearing the right piece, no one will ask you, "How long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish?"

Especially when the proper and simple care is shown, which can be as simple as an airtight jewelry box, an readily available cleaner,or just a simple washing.  

Shop our extensive sterling silver offerings or our latest and bestselling jewelry made of gold or precious stone designs.

SHOP .925 STERLING SILVER JEWELRY

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Have you ever taken off a ring or necklace only to reveal green or black stained skin underneath it? Click here to learn about when and why that happens.

Keyword(s): stained skin

Here's a misconception: only cheaply made jewelry can cause black or green stained skin. But the truth is, regardless of how high the quality of your jewelry is, you can still deal with sensitivities from it.

So, if it isn't the value of the metal, why does jewelry sometimes leave stains? You will find the answer to that question in this article along with ways to avoid stained skin in the future.

How Jewelry Causes Stained Skin

We've all had the experience where a piece of jewelry has caused our skin to turn green or black. While metal allergies and skin ailments are sometimes the reason for these unsightly marks, the majority of staining doesn't have anything to do with allergies.

Sometimes the products we use or the metals that are mixed in with the jewelry are the reason for stains. These are some metals that are commonly used in jewelry and how they can stain your skin when they tarnish:

Green Stains and Copper

We expose our skin to various elements and chemicals on a daily bases. This exposure comes from products like skin oils, perfumes, soaps, and lotions.

But if you like wearing copper jewelry, you may want to second guess actions like washing your hands while your rings are still on your fingers.

When copper is exposed to chemicals, it oxidizes and then turns greens. And of course, if you wear the jewelry for an extended amount of time, the tarnishing can transfer to your skin, leaving it green.

However, the full reaction can vary between people. It's your individual body chemistry that determines the impact of the tarnish.

Keep in mind that your jewelry doesn't have to be pure copper to cause a reaction.

Seeing Discoloration from Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver. The remaining 7.5% is metal alloy like copper.

So, if you are experiencing some staining, it's possible that the copper is to blame.

On the other hand, when your sterling silver tarnishes, the result is usually black staining on the skin. The gasses in the air are what cause sterling silver to turn black.

Additionally, you will often find sterling silver that is coated with other metals because they help keep it from tarnishing. Rhodium, a member of the platinum metal family is commonly used in this way. It can also be the reason your sterling silver has a nice glossy finish.

Regarding care, you should store your sterling silver jewelry in its own compartment in our jewelry box. Or you can put it in a cloth pouch. Care for the jewelry this way helps prevent scratching, as silver is a very soft metal.

Reactions from Gold

It's very rare for gold to stain your skin on its own. However, it is often mixed with other metals and that's what causes problems.

Gold plated jewelry contains a thin outer layer of gold that can wear off with time. When it does, its less expensive base metal is exposed.

Metals like Nickel, silver, and copper get used with gold plated jewelry in order to make it affordable and durable. Those other metals are what cause skin discoloration and tarnishing.

When you purchase gold jewelry, you can determine how well it will hold up by understanding the number of karats a piece contains. The lower the number of karats, the less pure gold in the jewelry. For example, 10K gold jewelry contains less gold than 18K gold.

You should store and care for gold plated jewelry in the same ways you would sterling silver. Reduce its exposure to perfumes, lotions, and soaps. Then, store it in a cloth pouch to prevent the outer layer of gold from scratching off.

Nickel Allergies and Stained Skin

Just like other metals, nickel can stain your skin. But if your skin is sensitive or you have a nickel allergy, you can experience some other symptoms.

People with nickel allergies often experience itching and redness when the metal comes in contact with their bodies.

When purchasing jewelry, always ask the jewelry what types of alloy metals it is combined with. This way, you can avoid nickel and any reactions your allergy might cause.

Avoiding Staining All Together

The good thing is that your skin turning color from your jewelry isn't permanent or harmful. You can easily remove it by cleaning your skin with rubbing alcohol and then following up with soap and water.

But, if you could, wouldn't you avoid it all together?

Here's what to do:

Wear Other Metals

Certain metals are better for people with sensitive skin who are more likely to experience staining. The best metals to wear in this situation are rhodium, stainless steel, and platinum.

Remove Your Jewelry

The best way to protect your jewelry and your skin is to keep the jewelry safe during everyday activities. For example, if you are washing your hands, take your rings off. Or if you have are going swimming, especially in salt water, remove your jewelry.

Limiting exposure to chemicals will prolong the life of your jewelry and protect your skin.

Coat It

Since everyday chemicals, air, and water can scratch and tarnish your jewelry, you should coat it when it's brand new. Doing so will keep your jewelry in its best shape.

While some people use nail polish to provide a protective layer over their jewelry, the nail polish will eventually fade and need to be reapplied.

A polymer coating is much more durable and can do the trick. Additionally, you won't have to worry about finding a coating that will match the pieces you're trying to protect, as it is always clear in color.

Need More Jewelry Advice?

Nobody wants to lose their favorite pieces of jewelry to oxidation, stained skin, or tarnishing. Following the advice we provided in this guide will help you keep all of those things under control.

But that isn't where our jewelry advice ends. Follow our blog to learn interesting tips and even some history.

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Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

You may be wondering... does sterling silver tarnish? Quick answer - Yes. But with the right care, it can be prevented. Here's how to care for your jewelry to keep it looking good.

Keyword(s): primary: does sterling silver tarnish  

Sterling silver has become more and more popular among those who wear jewelry on a regular basis. If you're looking for gorgeous jewelry that you can wear on almost any occasion, sterling silver should be at the top of your list.

High quality sterling silver jewelry can last for decades and is the backbone of many jewelry collections. When taken care of properly, there is no other option that gives you more "bang for your buck" than sterling silver. 

There is one common question most people ask when purchasing sterling silver for the first time: "Does sterling silver tarnish?"

The answer is - Yes, it can. Sterling silver is made up of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent of other metals that form an alloy.  Some of those other metals, primarily copper, can cause sterling silver to tarnish over time when they interact with moisture that's in the air.

Fortunately, there are a variety of things you can do to limit the amount of tarnishing that will take place when you wear sterling silver jewelry. Take a look at some tips below.

Store Your Sterling Silver Jewelry Properly

The first thing you want to do in order to prevent sterling silver jewelry from tarnishing is to store it properly whenever you aren't wearing it.

Far too often, people will take their jewelry and throw it on their nightstand or dresser when they don't have it on. This is not the right way to go about storing it safely.

You should place sterling silver jewelry into a cool and dark part of your home when you aren't wearing it. It should be far away from sunlight, moisture, and heat.

You should also consider placing each piece of sterling silver jewelry into its own plastic bag and removing air from the bag. This will prevent it from coming into contact with contaminants that could cause it to tarnish.

You might even want to invest in anti-tarnish paper strips that can be placed alongside your stored sterling silver jewelry. That should guarantee that you won't have to worry about your jewelry tarnishing at all.

Keep It Away From Moisture

If you accidentally wear your sterling silver jewelry into the shower one day or forget you have your sterling silver jewelry on and jump into a pool, it's not the end of the world.

But moisture is one of the things that will almost guarantee your sterling silver jewelry will tarnish. So you should keep it away from moisture at all costs.

You should never leave any sterling silver jewelry sitting in the bathroom where it can be exposed to humidity and moisture from a shower. You should also limit the number of times you wear sterling silver jewelry into a pool, hot tub, or other bodies of water.

You want to make sure you aren't exposing your sterling silver jewelry unnecessarily to water at any time. Moisture is one of sterling silver's biggest enemies and you won't be asking "Does sterling silver tarnish?" for long when you have it around water. You'll be able to see the tarnish form for yourself in no time.

Wipe It Off After Wearing It

Each and every time you take off your sterling silver jewelry, you should return it to its proper storage. But before you do, you should take a dry soft cloth and wipe it down.

You don't have to go too crazy getting up in every single nook and cranny of your sterling silver jewelry, especially if you don't see any visible signs of tarnish. But by wiping down your jewelry, you will remove anything that could potentially cause problems later.

Clean It at the First Sign of Tarnish

At some point in time, you're probably going to see a small amount of tarnish form on your sterling silver jewelry. Don't be alarmed!

If wiping your jewelry down with a cloth doesn't remove it, there are a few steps you can take to get sterling silver clean again. Follow these steps to make your sterling silver jewelry sparkle:

1. Fill up a cup with warm water and a couple drops of a mild dishwashing soap
2. Place your sterling silver jewelry into the cup and gently handwash your jewelry to remove tarnish
3. Utilize a cotton swab to get deep into tight corners and clean them out
4. Use a baby toothbrush to clean away any tarnish that you can't remove by hand
5. Remove your sterling silver jewelry from the cup, wipe it down, and then allow it to air dry before you place it back into storage for safekeeping

As long as you follow these steps and don't allow any moisture to build upon your sterling silver jewelry before you store it, you should be able to safely remove all of the tarnish from it.

Keep Harsh Chemicals Away From It

There are some people who will recommend that sterling silver jewelry enthusiasts use all kinds of crazy concoctions to clean their jewelry. For example, some people swear by using toothpaste and baking soda to clean jewelry.

You're allowed to try whatever you want. But in most cases, those things can scratch the surface of a piece of jewelry.

There are also other harsh chemicals like bleach and acetone that people try to use to clean sterling silver jewelry. They can actually wear down the surface of silver and make it look very dull over time. You should never use them to clean your jewelry.

Wear It Regularly

After reading all these tips, you might be inclined to throw your sterling silver jewelry into storage for life and never wear it. But that's the last thing you should do.

If you want to keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best, the most effective way to do it is to take it out and wear it all the time. As long as you wipe it down when you're done wearing it, it should look like new at all times and last forever.

Look for Rhodium Finished Sterling Silver

Rhodium is a metal in the platinum family that is used to give white gold its white appearance and has become a popular option for sterling silver plating as well. 

High-end sterling silver jewelry coming out of Italy is often finished with a thick layer of rhodium over the sterling silver. This prevents tarnishing entirely and gives a look that is virtually indistinguishable from white gold. Win-win!

Does Sterling Silver Tarnish? Only If You Don't Care for It

As you have seen, the answer to the question "Does sterling silver tarnish?" isn't the answer most people want to hear. But that shouldn't stop you from investing in sterling silver! There are so many sterling silver necklaces, bracelets, and more to choose from.

Check out our blog for more information on caring for your sterling silver jewelry when you're not out showing it off.

You want your sterling silver ring to look as new as possible. Use these 8 tips to keep your ring sparkling.

Keyword(s): sterling silver ring

If you've ever had a ring, necklace, or other jewelry begin to tarnish, you know how disheartening it can be. Your once beautiful piece now looks dull and lifeless.

Luckily, with the right care, it's easy to get your jewelry looking shiny and gorgeous again in no time.

If you have a sterling silver ring or other pieces that are looking less than perfect lately, keep reading. We're breaking down eight things that you can do to get them back to looking like new.

1. Polish Often

One great way to keep your jewelry, from your favorite sterling silver ring that you wear daily to the necklace you save for special occasions, is by polishing it.

A soft polishing cloth is a great way to fight the first signs of tarnish and clean away fingerprints and other blemishes.

You can purchase a cleaning cloth designed specifically for polishing silver from any jewelry stores or most department stores. If you don't have a silver polishing cloth, you can use a lint-free or microfiber cloth to clean your silver pieces.

Avoid using rough materials, paper towels, or tissues. While they may feel soft to the touch, they actually contain abrasive fibers that can scratch your jewelry.

If you polish your jewelry often, tarnish won't have a chance to take hold and get worse. If you don't polish often, you'll have to resort to other tips on this list to keep your sterling silver jewelry shining and looking great.

2. Wash Your Jewelry

If you don't wear your sterling silver ring or other jewelry daily, you might not notice when tarnish starts to show.

If tarnish has started on your favorite pieces, don't worry. With the right care, it's easy to reverse the signs of tarnish and get your pieces shiny again in no time.

The first thing you should do to get rid of tarnish is to wash your jewelry. Warm water and a mild dishwashing soap can get rid of mild cases of tarnish on silver jewelry. Just make sure that your soap is free of ammonia and phosphates before you let it near your silver.

3. Be Wary of Commercial Cleaner

If polishing or soap and water aren't enough to get rid of tarnish on your silver jewelry, you may be tempted to try a commercial cleaner.

Commercial cleaners promise professional cleaning results that you can achieve at home. But while it is possible to get your pieces clean and shiny again with these products, they are difficult to use and easy to mess up.

To start, many commercial cleaners contain chemicals that can become dangerous if not handled correctly. For instance, if your room isn't well ventilated, the vapors from the cleaner can be deadly.

If you choose the wrong type of commercial cleaner or don't use it to the exact specifications of the product, you could also end up damaging your sterling silver ring or other jewelry.

4. Use a Homemade Cleaning Solution

If you're wary of using professional commercial jewelry cleaners, but polishing and washing your pieces haven't been enough, you need an alternative.

Homemade jewelry cleaners are a great way to get your jewelry looking great again. You can make your own cleaner using common household ingredients like baking soda, olive oil, vinegar, and more.

If your jewelry contains more than just silver, such as gemstones, be careful using even natural, homemade cleaners, as these can damage your pieces.

5. Get a Professional Cleaning

There are plenty of ways to keep your jewelry looking great on your own. But nothing quite beats a professional cleaning.

Taking your favorite pieces to be professionally cleaned from time to time will give you a shiny, fresh start. From there, you can continue polishing and cleaning your pieces at home to keep them looking as great as they did when you brought them home from the jewelry store.

6. Store it Properly

Tarnish forms when your sterling silver jewelry is exposed to air. While you can't avoid this when you're wearing and enjoying your pieces, you can do something to stop tarnish when storing your sterling silver necklace, ring and bracelets.

Storing your jewelry in air-tight plastic bags can help stop tarnish from forming. Just be sure to store your pieces in separate bags to avoid scratching or tangling.

If you don't want to place your jewelry in plastic bags, there are other ways to cut down on tarnish while in storage.

Placing your jewelry somewhere with low humidity is one solution. Another is to place a piece of charcoal, chalk, or silicone packs near your jewelry. These absorb moisture and help keep your pieces from tarnishing

7. Avoid Household Cleaners

Exposure to air isn't the only thing that causes tarnish.

Many common household cleaners, especially cleaners and rubber gloves, can also cause tarnish. Even food products like mayonnaise and eggs can make your pieces tarnish.

Take off your sterling silver rings or loose bracelets when cleaning or cooking to keep them from coming in contact with these items.

8. Wear Your Jewelry

Believe it or not, one of the best ways to prevent tarnish and keep your jewelry looking great is by wearing it!

The natural oils on your skin can shine your jewelry and protect it. Just make sure that you're avoiding the cleaners and foods listed above that can damage your pieces!

Keep Your Sterling Silver Ring and Other Jewelry Looking Great

Whether you have a jewelry box full of beautiful pieces or just a single prized piece, taking care of your sterling silver jewelry can keep it looking great for years to come.

Don't have a sterling silver ring that you need to care for? Maybe it's time to treat yourself to something new! Shop our collection today to find your next prized piece!

Jewelry Care: How to Clean Sterling Silver

Routine care keeps high-end jewelry looking its best for years. To get the most out of your jewelry, here's how to clean sterling silver the right way.

Keyword(s): how to clean sterling silver

Silver accessories are a staple in every jewelry box. Yet, many people often make the big mistake of neglecting their sterling silver necklaces, earrings, rings, and pendants.

If not cared for properly, even high-end sterling silver jewelry can appear a little discolored or dirty over time.

This occurs when oxygen or sulfur makes contact with silver, which can tarnish its luster.

To ensure your jewelry continues to look as good as new, learn more about the best ways to care for your Sterling Silver. 

Understand the Different Types of Sterling Silver

You must know the different types of sterling silver to care for the jewelry effectively.

The metal's purity will determine how quickly the silver will tarnish.

For example, .950 sterling silver will bend with ease and tarnish at a faster rate than .925. The increased purity means you will have to take greater care of .950.

*99.9% of sterling silver jewelry is .925 Sterling Silver. 

It's not uncommon for some silver jewelry to go through an intentional oxidizing process. This intentional darkening of an accessory to make it stand out a little is quite common with Balinese Silversmiths.

Unfortunately, excessive cleaning and polishing can result in a loss of detail. For this reason, we recommend placing oxidized jewelry in a separate area for cleaning.

Preventative Jewelry Care

You're probably familiar with the term "prevention is better than cure". Well, this is certainly true when it comes to sterling silver jewelry.

Aside from buying sterling silver from a reputable silver jeweler, here are the best ways to prevent your sterling silver pieces from tarnishing...

Wear the Items

One of the best ways to prevent sterling silver jewelry from tarnishing is by wearing it.

Your skin's oils can actually help to keep the jewelry clean and maintain its brilliance.

Avoid Corrosion

There are certain substances and chemicals that can cause sterling silver to corrode.

You must keep the jewelry away from:

• Household chemicals
• Chlorinated water
• Rubber
• Substances containing sulfur (latex, wool, eggs, mustard, etc.)
• Direct sunlight
• Hairspray
• Lotions
• Perfumes

So, avoid wearing jewelry when performing household chores. It's also important to put jewelry on last, so it doesn't come into contact with beauty products or perfume.

Polishing

Polishing is a great way to spruce up sterling silver fashion jewelry that hasn't tarnished too much. It's also a helpful way to clean oxidized silver, too.

We recommend using a special silver cloth to polish the accessories. If you don't have one, use a microfiber or non-abrasive cloth.

Never use tissues or paper towels to clean the items, as they could potentially scratch the silver.

The best polishing method is to use back and forth motions that mirror the silver's grain.

You might think rubbing in circles is the best method, but this will only highlight any scratches.

Has polishing not worked? Not to worry, here's how to clean sterling silver at home...

How to Clean Sterling Silver with Home Cleaning Solutions

Polishing sometimes isn't enough to clean your sterling silver.

If you want to know how to clean sterling silver at home, you'll be glad to know there are many options to try.

Soap and Water

Soap and warm water is a classic cleaning method, and it can breathe new life into your sterling silver.

Combine warm water with a mild ammonia, such as phosphate-free dishwashing soap.

This should be your first port of call if polishing doesn't work. Try this before you move onto the following sterling silver cleaning tips.

Baking Soda and Water

If soap doesn't work, combine water with baking soda to make a paste. You should apply a pea-sized amount of the paste to a clean cloth to polish the silver.

If you have stamped, etched or detailed jewelry, we suggest adding more water to make a thinner paste. You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach any crevices.

Once done, run the item under warm water before drying it with a clean cloth. It may soon look as good as new.

Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

Lemon juice is known for its cleaning properties.

If you want to know how to clean sterling silver, lemon juice and olive oil could be the best option for your item.

All you need to do is mix 1/2 cup of lemon juice with only a tsp. of olive oil in a large bowl.

Dip a small microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution before wringing it out. You can then polish the silver, rinse it under warm water and dry it with a clean cloth.

Baking Soda and White Vinegar

If baking soda doesn't work with warm water, you could always try it with white vinegar, instead.

It's a gentle way to remove heavy tarnishing. Soak the tarnished jewelry in a solution of 1/2 cup white vinegar and 2 tbsp. of baking soda.

You should soak the item in the solution for between two to three hours.

Don't be surprised if the solution fizzes!

Baking Soda, Boiling Water, Salt, and Aluminium Foil

If the above didn't work, create a chemical solution from baking soda, salt, boiling water, and foil.

Grab some aluminum foil to line the kitchen sink or glass roasting pan. The dull side of the foil should be placed down.

The next step is to place the jewelry onto the foil and pour boiling water over the items until covered. You should then add 2 tbsp. each of salt and baking soda.

Stir the solution to ensure the baking soda dissolves in the mix, as granules may scratch the metal.

The solution will cause any tarnish to be transferred to the aluminum foil. It may only take between 5 to 10 minutes to see a big difference in your jewelry.

Drain the solution using a colander and rinse the jewelry in warm water, before drying with a clean cloth.

We should warn you, the solution can smell a little like rotten eggs, but it could have your silver looking as good as new.

A Professional Cleaning Service

You will want your jewelry to last for a long time to come. If you don't have time to clean them, or they are too tarnished, take them to a professional silver cleaner.

Also, avoid cleaning old, valuable pieces yourself, and hire professional cleaning services.

In Conclusion...

Buying unique silver jewelry from a reputable jewelry company and taking care of it properly will give you a lifetime of enjoyment from your piece. As with anything, a little bit of effort goes a long way!

Are you looking to add to your jewelry collection? Take a look at our beautiful collections of necklaces, bracelets, rings, and more.

Routine sterling silver care is a must if you want to keep your jewelry looking its best. Here are 5 expert tips for gorgeous, long-lasting jewelry.

Keyword(s): sterling silver care

Are you as obsessed with sterling silver as much as we are? Are you all about its brilliant shine, incredibly versatile look, and just straight-up glamour? 

Whether you're a timeless jewelry fan or keeping up with the hottest trends, we're just as wild about stunning accessories as you are. 

While buying beautiful jewelry is fun and exciting, nothing ruins the mood more than lackluster tarnish. For this reason, most of us dread the cleaning process and fear that our silver is forever ruined.

But, not to worry! We're here to show you that sterling silver care is easy, quick, and convenient. You just need to know the right tricks and techniques. 

Let's get to it! 

1. Know the Digits 

Those sterling silver digits, we mean! 

Here's a good rule of thumb. If your goods have a rating of .950, they need consistent polishing. If they have a rating of .925, the material is sturdier and doesn't need as much cleaning. All of Roma's sterling silver jewelry is .925 and should require a little less work than the silver you may have purchased elsewhere. 

If you're totally unsure or there is no label in view, check with your jeweler. This is one of the reasons we strongly advocate checking digits. It guarantees legitimate silver (and sadly, there is a lot of fake jewelry out there). 

Remember, with proper care and knowledge of your jewelry, your piece can last a lifetime and beyond. It's best to be absolutely sure you're getting real and reputable products.

2. Dry Silver is Happy Silver

Interesting fact: pure water by itself doesn't damage sterling silver, but most of the water we're exposed to in our daily lives is not purified. Chemicals and contaminants in the water can result in tarnished and dull-looking silver, so it's best to know what's what when it comes to water. 

3. Maintain Proper Storage

If you leave a fancy car out in the rain, what happens? It gets dirty! A similar principle applies to sterling silver care. You need appropriate storage for your stunning pieces. And, you need to be diligent about maintenance. 

Air exposure can wreak havoc by tarnishing your delicate silver. Don't just leave it lying on your nightstand or in an open jewelry chest. And, don't just leave it in your purse or drawer! 

It's best to store silver in individual, air-tight bags with anti-tarnish properties. These types of bags keep air exposure out and keep the shininess and brilliance intact.

Unclasp and unhook the jewelry to avoid potential scratching. Do NOT bunch several pieces in the same bag to save time or space. This can create tangling, scratching, tarnish, and that is exactly what we are trying to avoid here! 

For additional preventative efforts, silica gel packets provide anti-tarnish protection. Throw one in each bag for extra care. 

Finally, if you are traveling with your jewelry (because we know you want to look glamorous when in paradise), be sure to use a special case for protection! The last issue you want to deal with on vacation is scratched-up jewelry, right? 

4. Know When To Take Off Your Jewelry

Yes, we know how much you love your gorgeous ring or bracelet. And, we know it can be hard to take those babies on and off again. But, it's critical, and here's why.

Strong chemicals, sulfur, sweat and perspiration, chlorine, and harsh sunlight can tarnish and corrode the brilliant shine you love in your silver.

Don't take your chances. Preventative care is significantly easier than dealing with damaged jewelry! 

It is optimal to remove jewelry during the following times: 

• Household chores, such as dishes, laundry, and when using cleaning supplies
• When exercising, at the gym, or playing contact sports
• When showering or bathing 
• Swimming, hot tubs, or saunas
• Very hot places (such as when lying out at the beach or pool)
• When getting ready (i.e: putting on lotion, makeup, hair products)
• Preparing, cooking, or eating foods that contain sulfur (this includes eggs and mayonnaise). 
• Outside chores or tasks, such as gardening 

Preventative care is ALWAYS easier than aftercare! 

5. Polish It Pretty 

Silver is delicate, and, despite our best efforts, it can still get dirty. Fortunately, sterling silver care can be as easy as a fast rubdown. 

To do this, use a simple microfiber cloth or special jewelry cloth (not paper towels or toilet paper) to clean your goods. 

Focus on maintaining long up-and-down strokes to clean the jewelry. Be sure to use different parts of the cloth to avoid spreading any tarnish. Do not use circular motions here, as it can actually make the tarnish or dirt worse. Be sure to avoid polishing any part of the jewelry that is intentionally oxidized. 

For more complex or tight, detailed areas, go in with a Q-tip. It'll get into every nook and cranny you need. And, that's it! Easy, right? 

Bonus: Make Your Own DIY Cleaner 

Are you storing your jewelry correctly and polishing it, but still looking for a greater shine? Needing just a bit more brilliance? Check out some of our favorite, tried-and-true cleaning methods.

Note: these are natural cleaning methods, as the harsh chemicals in professional cleaning products can be incredibly taxing on your jewelry.

Water and Baking Soda Method

You will need 2 parts water to 1 part baking soda (use a bit more water if the jewelry has delicate features). Stir into a paste. Use an old toothbrush or cleaning wand to apply this DIY cleaner in gentle motions and movements. 

Dish Liquid and Water

No fancy cleaning methods needed for this option. Simply rinse the jewelry off in the same way you would clean your own hands. 

Salt Water Method

Line a cooking pan or large dinner plate with a sheet of aluminum foil. Place each piece of jewelry directly on the foil. 

Combine 1 cup of boiling water with 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of baking soda together. Pour the mixture into the pan or large dinner plate. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the mixture. 

Bubbles will surface! Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes (use a spoon if needed for stirring). Rinse in cool water and dry off with a microfiber cloth.

Final Thought - Buy Quality 925 Sterling Silver

Proper caring and maintenance are necessary for any fine jewelry. 

If you follow these recommended tips, sterling silver care is incredibly easy! These methods will help prolong the longevity (and beauty) of your sterling silver earrings, necklaces or rings for years to come!

Be sure to check out our beautiful and timeless collections today! 

Sterling silver is a great material for high-quality jewelry but, left uncared for, it can tarnish. Check out our guide that will teach you how to clean sterling silver.

Keyword(s): clean sterling silver

Did you know that about 17% of engagements happen on the same ten days of each year - AKA "engagement season?" 

What about the fact that the jewelry industry has grown by about 6% since last year?

Whether you have your eyes on a sterling silver engagement ring or are just shopping for some stunning sterling silver jewelry for yourself, you need to know how to clean sterling silver and keep it sparkling!

Here, we'll tell you everything you need to know about how to clean sterling silver. 

Get The Facts

Sterling silver jewelry is some of the most well-loved jewelry on the market today.

In fact, silver is quickly becoming more popular than gold jewelry, because it's more affordable and because it just goes with more. 

We know that you never lose your shine - your jewelry shouldn't, either! 

So, before we tell you exactly how to keep your sterling silver jewelry looking as elegant as the day you bought it, we want to make sure you know a few important things. 

The purity of your silver impacts the speed at which it tarnishes. It also influences how easily it can bend. 

In general, sterling silver that has a rating of .950 is a bit more flexible, and will also need to be polished more often. 

If your piece has a rating of .925, it will be a bit tougher, and likely won't need to be cleaned as often. 

Also, check with your jeweler to determine if your silver has been intentionally oxidized. This means that parts of the piece will be a bit darker, especially more intricate pieces, to make their shapes and designs clearer. 

If your pieces have a lot of oxidized detailing, you'll need to take extra care when cleaning them. You may even want to take them to a professional to ensure they're not harmed during the cleaning process. 

Be Proactive

We know that polishing jewelry can be a pain, so there are a few things you can do to extend the time between polishes. 

Did you know that your skin contains natural oils that can help to clean sterling silver jewelry? So, sometimes the best thing you can do to keep your jewelry clean is to show it off all the time!

Also, be sure to take off your sterling silver when you're working out, getting in the pool, or even cleaning your house (harsh chemicals aren't good for sterling.)

If you need to use hairspray, do so before you put on your jewelry. The same goes for body lotions and even perfume. 

Keep your jewelry out of the sun if possible! Your sterling pieces aren't great for lengthy trips to the beach or long events without any shade.

Finally, be sure to store your sterling silver jewelry in a cool, dry place - in a plastic bag like this option with a slide closure. This prevents your jewelry from tarnishing too quickly because it limits the amount of oxygen that can reach it.

Store your silver pieces individually, so they don't scratch one another. If you have a clasp, it's always a good idea to unhook it before storing it. 

You might even throw a silica gel packet, or even a stick of chalk, into the bags to stop the tarnish. 

How To Clean Sterling Silver

Of course sometimes, in spite of our best efforts, our jewelry can get tarnished. 

This has nothing to do with the quality of the jewelry, or even how you're caring for it. It's just something that happens with time. 

If your silver is only slightly tarnished, you can just give it a quick polish with a silver cloth - avoid paper towels and kleenex!

Polish going backward and forward - not in circles, which can make scratches appear bigger. 

For tighter/detailed areas, just use a Q-tip. 

How To Make Your Own Silver Cleaner

There's nothing wrong with pre-made, commercial silver cleaner, per se. However, many companies use dangerous chemicals that can actually do more harm than good to the jewelry. 

Because these cleaners, if not high quality, can erode the anti-tarnish coating on your jewelry.

Sometimes, they can harm the environment as well. 

If you want to use a commercial cleaner, look for green options. However, we suggest making your own!

It's easy to clean sterling silver jewelry with common kitchen cabinet items. 

Check out these options:

Soap And Water

Yep, sometimes it doesn't need to be any more complicated than this! You can use an ammonia-free dishwashing liquid to do the job. 

This is a good "first try" method, to see if the tarnish can be removed without looking into other options.

Water And Baking Soda

Add about 2 parts of water to 1 part of baking soda, and make it into a paste. If your piece has lots of delicate features and designs, add a touch more water to make sure the paste doesn't get stuck in the grooves. 

You will likely want to use a toothbrush to apply this DIY cleaner. 

Lemon Juice And EVOO

Squeeze out about 1/2 a cup of lemon juice, and then toss in about a tablespoon of olive oil. It's not a salad dressing, it's a jewelry cleaner!

Then dip in your polishing cloth, wring out excess moisture, and get to work!

Baking Soda With Whitened Vinegar

If you have a serious build-up of tarnish, this is the option for you. 

You don't want to just polish it in this mixture - you want to soak it first!

Create a mix of about 1/2 a cup of whitened vinegar, along with around 2 tablespoons of baking soda. 

Let it sit for about 2.5 hours, clean it off, and you're all set. 

Getting Clean Sterling Silver Is Easy!

Thanks to this handy guide, you'll be able to keep your sterling silver earrings,  rings, bracelets, and necklaces sparkling!

Don't go out with a tarnished piece of jewelry again. 

Looking for more jewelry care advice? Need help picking out the perfect piece for an upcoming party? Just in the mood to spoil yourself? 

Take a look at our website and browse our beautiful collections.

Some people associate sterling silver with being "too expensive." On the other end of the spectrum, some think it's not "good quality" because it's not pure gold or considered "fine jewelry."  We're going to dispel those myths with a guide on why you should start (and continue) buying sterling silver jewelry.

Keyword(s): sterling silver jewelry

People have linked silver to luxury for decades -- the phrase "silver spoon" is associated with wealth for a reason. 

Sterling silver -- 92.5% silver, 7.5% other metal alloys (usually copper) -- brings the tradition of luxurious silver to jewelry. 

Some people think sterling silver is only for earrings. Others think that it's just a cheap alternative to white gold.

In fact, sterling silver is used in every type of jewelry imaginable to create looks that can be both timeless and trendy. 

Modern jewelry designers are flocking to this noble metal because it's the perfect combination of malleability, beauty, and durability. 

Whether you're looking for everyday accessories or a timeless statement piece, you'll probably find sterling silver jewelry that seems like it's been tailored to your personal tastes. 

Keep reading for seven reasons you should add sterling silver to your jewelry box. 

1. Sterling silver jewelry is durable

When taken care of correctly, sterling silver jewelry can last you a lifetime. Savvy sterling silver owners know that their pieces can look exactly the same even after forty years! 

True 925 sterling silver is not cheap. The extra cost is more than worth it for the quality and lifetime value of the jewelry. 

Some of your well-made pieces may even become family heirlooms in the future. 

To make sure that you're getting the best quality jewelry,  you should buy from established, reputable jewelry companies, and look for marks like these in a hidden place on your new accessory:

• 925 or .925
• sterling
• sterling silver

Even if you don't want lifetime jewelry just yet, sterling silver is still a smart purchase because...

2. You can easily keep up with trends

Any woman who likes to keep up with the latest news in fashion and jewelry knows that the pace of fast-fashion jewelry trends can be dizzying. 

Keeping up with what's in and what's out is exhausting. 

Luckily, sterling silver's popularity means it's almost always guaranteed to be in. The latest styles in jewelry will always include sterling silver, even if the designs change. 

Recently, for example, gemstones and uncut minerals have become a staple of spring and summertime accessories. Often, those stones are set in sterling silver.

Keeping a few silver pieces on hand in your jewelry rotation is a sure way to make sure you always look your best.  

3. There are endless options

Because silver is a relatively soft metal, it's easy for jewelers to mold and experiment with -- which means there are constantly new designs up for offer. 

The wide range of styles and designs in sterling silver means that you're sure to find a piece (or twenty) that fits your personal style.

Whether you're looking for a locket, bracelet, ring, or pendant, there are thousands of options. One of our favorite pieces are the sterling silver friendship bracelets or sterling silver hoop earrings.

Even sterling silver loyalists are never limited to the same variations on old concepts. Innovation is constant.

There's always a new 925 sterling piece to spruce up your collection!  

4. You can build a new jewelry collection in no time

The variety of sterling silver options available makes it easy to completely build or upgrade your jewelry collection.

Maybe you want to build a look around one of your more expensive statement pieces. Sterling silver complements most metals, so you don't have to worry about anything clashing.

Likewise, if you're looking for unique high-end pieces, sterling silver should be on your list. Designers use it to cast their most creative designs all the time. 

One of the big perks of sterling silver is that it's not just popular with consumers -- it's also popular with designers.

People are excited to buy the latest styles that designers create, and designers are happy to keep creating new things.

Sterling silver jewelry is a win for both parties. 

5. Incredible versatility

Sterling silver jewelry is appropriate no matter what the occasion may be. 

Embellishing an ensemble for the Met Gala? Sterling silver. Dressing up a casual dinner outfit? Silver. PTA meeting? You get the idea...

You might even be able to wear the same piece for both occasions! 

Why? Silver adds a classy touch to any look. 

Its versatility even extends to how it looks with other metals.

Maybe you want to add sterling silver to a jewelry collection that already has a lot of white gold or platinum pieces. You don't have to worry that your new jewelry won't match your outfits as the old collection did. 

In fact, you can even wear sterling silver jewelry with a white gold or platinum piece and still create a look that is put together. The colors are close enough that you won't look like you'remixing up jewelry. Instead, you'll create a new image that is uniquely you. 

6. Hypoallergenic jewelry

Unlike pieces that are made of inexpensive nickel, brass, or other base metals, which can irritate your skin, sterling silver jewelry doesn't contain metal additions that can cause an allergic reaction.

People who are allergic to metals such as nickel and or brass can wear sterling silver jewelry without much worry. This is especially important for accessories like earrings -- you can wear them without fear that a piercing will get infected. 

The metal addition to sterling silver is usually copper, which isn't as likely to cause an allergic reaction. 

Don your silver with confidence knowing that you won't face any consequences later.  

7. Easy to maintain

As beautiful as silver is, many women have avoided it at some point for one reason -- tarnish.

It's disappointing to see a favorite piece suddenly look dirty or discolored after sitting in a jewelry box for just a bit too long. 

All silver can tarnish with time, especially if it's not worn often. 

Here's the good news -- wearing your jewelry can actually help prevent tarnish. The oils on your skin 'clean' the metal, which means you don't have to worry about that dirty look.

Even if your sterling silver jewelry does dull, there are easy ways to restore its original shine. 

Most craft stores or hardware stores carry a varnish that will work with your silver. Cleaning your jewelry with varnish and a fresh cloth will get the silver sparkling before you know it. 

Interested in learning more or starting your own sterling silver collection?