If you are like us and cant help but stare at shiny things like brand new silver jewellery then there are important steps to follow so that your new jewellery stays shiny for a lifetime and more. unlike popular belief, sterling silver does tarnish over time and so following these steps is vital. At De Milne, we only sell silver that is marked as 925, which means each piece of jewellery is 92.5% pure silver. we go for this percentage as it gives the perfect mix of affordability, purity, strength, durability, shine and versatility.
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Store properly: When you're not wearing your silver jewellery, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use anti-tarnish bags or cloths to prevent oxidation. Avoid storing silver jewellery in humid areas like bathrooms, as moisture can speed up tarnishing.
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Avoid contact with chemicals: Chemicals found in household cleaners, cosmetics, perfumes, and even sweat can cause silver to tarnish. Remove your silver jewellery before swimming in chlorinated pools or using cleaning products. Also, put your jewellery on last when getting ready to avoid contact with cosmetics and perfumes.
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Clean regularly: Regular cleaning helps remove oils, dirt, and tarnish from silver jewellery. Use a soft damp cloth or a jewellery polishing cloth as a last resort to gently buff the surface of your silver pieces. For intricate designs or hard-to-reach areas, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush with mild soap and water. Just be sure to dry your jewellery thoroughly afterward.
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Avoid exposure to air: Tarnishing occurs when silver reacts with sulphur compounds in the air. To minimize exposure, store your silver jewellery in airtight containers or zip-lock bags when not in use. You can also include anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets in your storage containers to absorb moisture and prevent tarnishing.
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Professional cleaning: If your silver jewellery has stubborn tarnish or intricate details that are hard to clean at home, consider taking it to a professional jeweller for cleaning. We have specialized tools and techniques to restore the shine of your silver pieces without causing damage.
By following these tips, you can keep your silver 925 jewellery looking beautiful for years to come!