How to Care for Your Sterling Silver Jewellery

The pieces you reach for often deserve a little attention between wears. A gentle routine starts with knowing what your jewellery is made from and choosing care that suits every part of it.

Start with the product details

Check the material, finish and stones before cleaning. Sterling silver with a plated surface, pearls or decorative darkened details should not automatically be treated like plain, unplated silver. Follow the care instructions supplied for the individual piece.

Before and after wearing

Put jewellery on after applying perfume, creams and other beauty products, once they have dried. Take it off before swimming, showering, exercise or household cleaning. Keep silver away from chlorine, bleach and strong cleaning chemicals.

After wearing, gently wipe the piece with a clean, soft cloth. This is a simple way to remove everyday residue without starting a more intensive cleaning routine.

Give each piece its own space

Store jewellery clean and dry, with individual pieces separated in soft pouches or compartments. Keep chains arranged so they do not knot together. Avoid leaving your collection in a humid bathroom or loose beside other objects that may scratch it.

When silver needs polishing

A darkening surface may be tarnish, which forms when silver reacts with substances in its environment. For plain, unplated sterling silver, use a suitable silver polishing cloth gently and according to its instructions.

Polishing removes a small amount of material, so more is not always better. Repeated or forceful polishing can wear finishes, and it may remove intentionally darkened details. Avoid abrasive household shortcuts and do not assume a silver dip is safe for an entire piece.

Pearls, stones and plated finishes

These details can change the cleaning method. Avoid soaking or using chemical cleaners and ultrasonic machines unless the maker confirms they are suitable for the complete piece. If you are unsure, a soft, dry cloth is a sensible first step; ask for specific guidance before doing more.

For advice about an agèa piece, contact us with its name and a clear photograph. To understand the material itself, read What Is 925 Sterling Silver?

Further reading: the Canadian Conservation Institute’s silver care guidance and GIA’s jewellery care advice. Always follow the instructions for your specific jewellery.