Most of our items require minimal care because we design them for daily wear.  However there are certain styles that we intentionally polish them to a reflective brilliance, and they will take a little more effort to maintain that radiating shine. After all, authentic sterling silver do tarnish when exposed to the environment.

Below are some suggestions, though not comprehensive, they will be handy to keep in mind for some basic sterling silver maintenance.

KEEP YOUR SILVER DRY

Pure water by itself does not damage sterling silver, but most of the water we're exposed to in our daily lives is not purified. Chemicals and contaminants such as chlorine, sulphur found in swimming pools and hot springs can result in tarnished and dull looking silver. While not recommended, if you have your jewellery on while showering, remember to dry it after. Chemicals in lotion and perfumes can cause jewellery to tarnish. Apply them first, let it dry before putting your jewellery on.

PROPER STORAGE

Air exposure can tarnish your delicate silver. Do not leave it lying on your nightstand or in an open jewellery chest.

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

Unclasp and unhook the jewellery 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.

If you are traveling with your jewellery, be sure to use a special case for protection.

KNOW WHEN TO TAKE OFF YOUR JEWELRY

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

It is recommended to remove your precious jewellery 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 sulphur (this includes eggs and mayonnaise). 
• Outside chores or tasks, such as gardening 

Preventative care is ALWAYS easier than aftercare.

POLISH IT

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 jewellery cloth (not paper towels or toilet paper) to clean your goods. 

Focus on maintaining long up-and-down strokes to clean the jewellery. 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 jewellery that is intentionally oxidized. 

Should you require specialized help with polishing your sterling silver, contact us (hello@oneslashonestudios.com)  for professional assistance.