A close-up of a person wearing a thick silver chain necklace over an open white shirt. The background features a pattern of large silver chain links on a beige surface. The persons hand is near their collar.

How To: Care For Sterling Silver

Discover our key tips for keeping your cool tone pieces looking their best

What is sterling silver?

Sterling silver jewelry is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. We dip our sterling jewelry in rhodium, a highly durable precious metal, which gives it extra shine and longevity. The addition of copper in the alloy enhances the strength and durability of sterling silver, making it suitable for everyday wear and use.

Two silver rings with heart-shaped faces and textured bands are placed side by side on a light, marble-like surface, with soft light casting gentle shadows.
A hand with almond-shaped, clear-tipped nails wears three silver rings: a thin beaded band, a double band with a small sphere accent, and another thin beaded band on different fingers.

Does it tarnish?

Despite its luster, sterling silver can tarnish over time when exposed to air and environmental factors. Tarnish appears as a dull, dark layer on the surface of the silver. However, it can be easily cleaned and polished to restore its shine.

A woman wearing a dark blazer and a silver chain necklace, with her hand resting on her chest. The image is softly focused and her face is partially out of frame.
A silver chain necklace and matching bracelet are laid out on a textured gray surface, casting faint shadows.

Caring for sterling silver jewelry is essential to maintaining its shine and preventing discoloring. Here are some tips on how to care for your silver pieces:

Wear Your Jewelry: Wearing your sterling silver jewelry regularly can help prevent a change in color. The oils on your skin can help keep the metal looking its best.

Avoid Contact with Water: Remove your jewelry before swimming, showering, or doing dishes. Water can dull the shine of silver.

Keep Away from Chemicals: Perfume and makeup as well as household chemicals, including bleach and chlorine can damage silver. Remove your jewelry before working with these substances.

Store Properly: When not in use, store your jewelry in a cool, dry place. Use an airtight container or a soft cloth pouch to prevent exposure to air, which can cause your pieces to loose their shine.

Polish Regularly: It's natural for silver can tarnish over time, but regular polishing can help maintain its shine. You can use a silver polishing cloth or a specific silver polishing product for this purpose. Be gentle while polishing to avoid scratching.

Remember that discoloring is a natural process for silver, and it will happen over time. However, with proper care, you can keep your sterling silver jewelry looking beautiful for years to come!

A close-up of a person wearing a chunky silver chain necklace and a white garment, shown against their brown skin.

TRENDS. STYLING. & SO MUCH MORE.

All of the latest at Mod + Jo - directly to your inbox at least once a week.

MORE TO LOVE

Trending: Bangles & Cuffs - Mod + Jo - Jewelry built to last, advanced plating technology
Style Guide Trend Report

Trending: Bangles & Cuffs

April Is For Diamonds - Mod + Jo - Jewelry built to last, advanced plating technology
The Archive

April Is For Diamonds

Founder Interview: East on Rodeo - Mod + Jo - Jewelry built to last, advanced plating technology
Behind The Curtain

Founder Interview: East on Rodeo