Any piece of jewellery is worthy to take care of. In a sense they can be one of the longer lasting companions in life aside from loved ones. Jewellery that is well taken care of, can serve more than the being an adornment or accessory to the person who wears it.
Each type of jewellery piece has unique methods to provide lasting care. Taking care of a gold piece of jewellery may be different from its diamond or platinum counterparts. In the same way, taking care of sterling silver jewellery pieces are much different than gold or even its closest relative of white gold or platinum.
Taking care of silver jewellery is highly imperative because like gold, silver is fast becoming a favorite and popular jewelry piece. Silver is no longer used for coins or utensils, it's too expensive!. Nowadays, its cost and price has gone up faster and at times creeping closer to that of gold. This is the main reason why silver jewellery pieces should be properly taken care of.
Among the most basic way to care for sterling silver jewellery pieces is to have a proper, safe, and dedicated storage area. Meaning, that the pieces of jewellery that are made of sterling silver must not be left in head boards of beds or in cupboards. A soft storage area, like a jewellery box, with cushions is an excellent choice. Try to find cushions that are made of velvety material rather than solk. Pieces of silver jewellery should also be stored according to type as to avoid scratches and tarnishing.
While some people like the tarnishing effect, if you dont, then your silver jewellery pieces should also be stored in a cool and dry place. They should not be exposed to direct sunlight while in storage. Direct sunlight and high temperatures are all major culprits in the tarnishing of silver jewelry pieces. The storage of the silver jewelry pieces should also be closed most of the time. Oxidisation makes the silver jewellery can effect the lustre and finish.
The pieces of silver jewellery should also be stored away from bleach or water that is chlorinated. The chemicals found in chlorine and bleach are very powerful to cause abrasions and tarnishing to silver jewellery pieces.
For cleaning your jewellery pieces, toothpaste can be a very cheap alternative. Use the toothpaste with a very soft cloth or even with bare fingers to clean the silver pieces. However, if your silver jewellery has stones,or rhodium plating, avoid using the toothpaste as it could have a harmful effect on the stones and finish. You can also try mild liquid soap in place of the toothpaste for jewellery pieces with soft gemstones.
A quality silver polish is the best option in coating your silver jewellery pieces before storage. If silver polish is not available, you can also use Egyptian lacquer to maintain the lustre and shine of your jewellery pieces. Apply the polish after cleaning the silver. Store them immediately to avoid exposure to direct sunlight and continuous exposure in air.