FAQ: STERLING SILVER
FAQ: STERLING SILVER
Sterling silver is one of the most popular precious metals for jewelry, and it's easy to see why. With its brilliant shine, durability, and affordability, sterling silver is a great choice to add some sparkle to your wardrobe. But before you go ahead and invest in some amazing pieces crafted from sterling silver, here are some answers to some commonly asked questions about this precious metal.
1. WHAT IS STERLING SILVER?
1. WHAT IS STERLING SILVER?
2. WHAT'S THE BEST SILVER FOR JEWELRY?
2. WHAT'S THE BEST SILVER FOR JEWELRY?
3. DOES STERLING SILVER CHANGE COLOR?
3. DOES STERLING SILVER CHANGE COLOR?
Yes, indeed, sterling silver color will change over time. This is usually due to sterling silver oxidation, which occurs when silver reacts to oxygen and humidity. To keep your sterling silver color unchanged, it needs regular cleaning and polishing! And don't forget to store it properly - a dry place away from direct sunlight is ideal. With proper care and maintenance, you'll be able to enjoy your sterling silver pieces for many years!
4. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE STERLING SILVER TO TARNISH?
4. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE STERLING SILVER TO TARNISH?
The amount of time it takes for sterling silver oxidation to occur varies depending on its exposure to air, humidity, and chemicals.
5. CAN YOU FIX TARNISHED STERLING SILVER?
5. CAN YOU FIX TARNISHED STERLING SILVER?
Yes, there are different methods for fixing tarnished sterling silver, depending on how bad it is. First, you can clean it with a mild soap and warm water solution. Alternatively, a silver-polishing cloth can buff out scratches and reduce tarnish build-up. Lastly, you may also use a jewelry polishing cream to restore its shine and luster.
6. DOES STERLING SILVER RUST?
6. DOES STERLING SILVER RUST?
No, sterling silver doesn't rust. Rust is a reaction that results from iron content, and sterling silver does not contain iron. That said, sterling silver does tarnish over time as a result of coming into contact with air and other elements. Fortunately, it's easy to keep your sterling silver looking like new with a bit of polishing from time to time!
7. IS STERLING SILVER NICKEL FREE?
7. IS STERLING SILVER NICKEL FREE?
Yes, sterling silver consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. That means it's nickel free!
8. IS STERLING SILVER HYPOALLERGENIC?
8. IS STERLING SILVER HYPOALLERGENIC?
9. CAN I GET STERLING SILVER WET?
9. CAN I GET STERLING SILVER WET?
Yes, you can get sterling silver wet as it is durable. One or two-time exposure will not seriously harm your pieces. However, we recommend taking off your sterling silver jewelry before showering or swimming to ensure its longevity. This will help prevent tarnishing and damage over time! Plus, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your favorite pieces!
10. CAN YOU WEAR 925 STERLING SILVER IN THE SHOWER?
10. CAN YOU WEAR 925 STERLING SILVER IN THE SHOWER?
No, you should not shower with sterling silver on. Showering with sterling silver can cause its finish to dull, the stones to loosen, and can cause tarnishing.
11. CAN STERLING SILVER TURN GREEN?
11. CAN STERLING SILVER TURN GREEN?
Yes, sterling silver can turn green due to oxidation or a reaction between the metal and certain acids found in cosmetics, perspiration, rubber, and chlorinated water. To prevent this from happening, be sure to clean your sterling silver jewelry regularly with mild soap and warm water. Additionally, you should avoid storing it in areas where there is high humidity, and take it off when swimming or showering. By following these tips, you should be able to keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best for many years to come.
12. CAN A STERLING SILVER RING BE RESIZED?
12. CAN A STERLING SILVER RING BE RESIZED?
Yes, sizing a sterling silver ring is easy. Most skilled jewelers have the tools and experience required for sizing a sterling silver ring without compromising its structural integrity. Just make sure you choose an experienced, trusted craftsman for the job! That said, more extreme changes in size may require an entirely new piece of jewelry being created, so consider having a conversation with your jeweler before making a decision.
13. CAN YOU ENGRAVE STERLING SILVER?
13. CAN YOU ENGRAVE STERLING SILVER?
Yes, you can! Silver is a soft metal, so engraving it is easy and can really add the perfect finishing touch to your piece.
14. HOW TO CLEAN STERLING SILVER
14. HOW TO CLEAN STERLING SILVER
Keeping your sterling silver jewelry in tip-top shape is easy! All you need is a few household items first. Before cleaning, make sure to use a clean cloth or soft brush to remove any dirt or tarnish that may have built up over time. Once you’ve got your supplies, it’s time to get cleaning! Firstly, create a lathery solution with mild dish soap and warm water. Submerge your sterling silver jewelry in the soapy bath for two to three minutes before rinsing it off. Afterward, use a soft cloth to dry and polish it. Voilà! You now have a shiny new piece of jewelry ready to be shown off.
15. HOW TO STORE STERLING SILVER
15. HOW TO STORE STERLING SILVER
16. HOW TO CARE FOR STERLING SILVER:
16. HOW TO CARE FOR STERLING SILVER:
Sterling silver care is required to keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best. Be sure to clean it regularly with a mild soap and warm water solution. To prevent tarnish build-up, store it in an airtight container or bag away from humidity, sunlight, moisture, and other harsh elements. Additionally, sterling silver care means avoiding wearing your sterling silver jewelry when showering or swimming to minimize its exposure to harsh chemicals (such as bleach, chlorine, etc.). Lastly, polishing it with a soft cloth can help restore its shine and luster.
17. CAN YOU WEAR STERLING SILVER EVERY DAY?
17. CAN YOU WEAR STERLING SILVER EVERY DAY?
Yes, you can wear sterling silver jewelry every day! Sterling silver is a very durable metal (thus, it does not dent or scratch easily).
18. HOW CAN YOU TELL IF STERLING SILVER IS REAL?
18. HOW CAN YOU TELL IF STERLING SILVER IS REAL?
The easiest way to tell if sterling silver is real is by looking for a marking or stamp that indicates its authenticity. If you are buying a new piece of jewelry, it should have one of the following markings stamped on it: “Sterling,” “925”, or “SS” (for sterling silver).
WRAPPING UP
WRAPPING UP
Sterling silver is one of the most popular precious metals for jewelry, and there's no wonder why. It has a beautiful shine and luster that can last for years with proper care. Whether you're looking to invest in some stunning pieces or need help identifying genuine sterling silver, these answers to commonly asked questions should give you all the information you need. Happy Shopping!