Sterling silver is beautiful, but over time, exposure to air, moisture, lotions, and everyday wear can cause it to lose some of its shine or develop tarnish.
The good news? A little routine care can make a big difference.
For Light Tarnish: Use a Polishing Cloth
A silver polishing cloth is one of the easiest ways to freshen up your jewelry at home.
Gently rub the surface of your sterling silver with the cloth, paying special attention to areas that look dull or tarnished. The cloth helps remove surface tarnish while bringing back the silver’s natural shine.
Polishing cloths are especially handy for quick touch-ups between professional cleanings.
For a Deeper Clean: Try Silver Cleaning Solution + Polishing Cloth
For pieces that need a little more attention, a silver cleaning solution can help remove heavier tarnish.
Depending on the cleaner, your sterling silver can be briefly dipped into the solution, removed, rinsed thoroughly, and polished with the polishing cloth.
Always follow the directions included with your cleaner, and make sure it is appropriate for the specific piece you are cleaning before using it.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Not every piece of jewelry should be dipped into a silver cleaning solution. Jewelry containing certain gemstones, pearls, oxidized finishes, glued components, or specialty treatments may require different care.
When in doubt, ask us before you clean it.
Need Silver Cleaner or Polishing Cloths?
We carry both silver polishing cloths and silver cleaning solution right here at Castles Jewelry & Gifts, so you can keep your sterling silver looking its best at home!
If your jewelry needs more than a quick touch-up, bring it in and let us take a look. We’re always happy to help you figure out the safest way to care for your piece.
Check out our sales associate, Christie, cleaning sterling silver brought into the store by a local customer, below!