Journal · Care Guide

How to care for sterling silver jewellery

Sterling silver is built to last — but unlike solid gold, it can develop a light tarnish over time. The good news: it is easy to prevent and even easier to fix.

What is sterling silver?

Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with 7.5% other metals (usually copper) to increase durability. This alloy — stamped 925 — is the standard for fine silver jewellery worldwide. At Glasaje, every silver piece is solid sterling silver, never plated and never coated.

Why does sterling silver tarnish?

Silver reacts with sulphur compounds in the air and in some products — particularly perfumes, lotions, and certain foods — to form a thin layer of silver sulphide on the surface. This appears as a yellow, brown, or grey discolouration. Tarnish is entirely normal, does not damage the silver, and is simple to remove.

How to clean sterling silver at home

For light tarnish or general cleaning, warm soapy water is all you need.

1. 1Fill a small bowl with warm (not hot) water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
2. 2Soak the piece for 5 minutes.
3. 3Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, paying attention to crevices and chain links.
4. 4Rinse under warm running water.
5. 5Pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth and allow to air dry fully before storing.

For heavier tarnish, a silver polishing cloth works well. Use gentle, straight strokes rather than circular motions to avoid micro-scratches.

How to prevent tarnish

• Wear it regularly. The natural oils in your skin actually help keep silver polished. Pieces worn daily tarnish less than pieces stored away.
• Store in an airtight pouch. Exposure to air is the main cause of tarnish. An airtight zip bag or lined jewellery pouch significantly slows the process.
• Put it on last. Perfume, sunscreen, and hair products all accelerate tarnish. Apply these first, let them dry, then put your jewellery on.
• Wipe after wearing. A quick wipe with a soft cloth after each wear removes oils and moisture before they have a chance to react with the silver.

What to avoid with sterling silver

• Bleach and chlorine — can cause permanent discolouration
• Toothpaste — too abrasive; causes micro-scratches over time
• Rubber and latex — accelerate tarnishing significantly
• Swimming pools and the ocean — chlorine and salt water are harsh on silver

Is sterling silver hypoallergenic?

Yes. Sterling silver is hypoallergenic for most people. At Glasaje, our silver pieces are never plated — there is no nickel, brass, or base metal coating that can cause reactions. The 7.5% alloy content is typically copper, which is well tolerated by most skin.

About Glasaje sterling silver

All Glasaje sterling silver jewellery is 925 solid silver, made to order in Melbourne. Never plated, never coated, and backed by our 12-month warranty. Every piece is designed to the same standard as our gold range.

Frequently asked questions

How do I remove tarnish from sterling silver?

For light tarnish, warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush will restore the shine. For heavier tarnish, use a silver polishing cloth with gentle straight strokes. Avoid toothpaste or abrasive cleaners.

How do I stop sterling silver from tarnishing?

Store pieces in an airtight pouch when not wearing them, keep away from perfume and lotions, and wipe with a soft cloth after each wear. Regular wear also helps — the natural oils in your skin keep silver polished.

Can sterling silver get wet?

Yes — brief water exposure from washing hands or light rain will not damage sterling silver. Prolonged exposure to pool water, ocean water, or hot tubs can accelerate tarnishing and should be avoided.

Does sterling silver turn skin green?

Solid sterling silver should not turn skin green. If a silver piece is leaving marks, it is likely silver-plated (a copper base showing through) rather than solid sterling. All Glasaje silver pieces are solid 925 sterling — never plated.

How often should I clean sterling silver?

A quick wipe with a soft cloth after each wear, and a full warm soapy water clean once a month for regularly worn pieces. Annual professional polish if you want to restore full brightness.