Why Sterling Silver Needs Care
Sterling silver (925 silver) is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination gives it strength and durability, but the copper content also makes it prone to tarnishing when exposed to air and certain chemicals. The good news: tarnish is completely reversible, and with a few simple habits, your pieces will stay bright for years.
All of our handmade sterling silver earrings and ear cuffs are crafted from 925 sterling silver in Greece — built to last, and easy to care for.
Daily Wear Tips
- Put jewelry on last. Apply perfume, hairspray, and lotions before putting on your silver. Chemicals in these products accelerate tarnishing.
- Remove before sleeping. Take your jewelry off before bed — sweat and friction against pillows can dull the surface over time.
- Swimming in the sea? No problem. Salt water is actually gentle on silver — and rinsing your pieces with fresh water afterward keeps them clean and bright. Silver loves water.
- Avoid chlorinated pools. Chlorine is the one water-based exception — it can damage and discolor sterling silver, so remove your pieces before swimming in a pool.
- Wipe after wearing. A quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth after each wear removes oils and residue before they can cause tarnish.
How to Clean Sterling Silver at Home
Method 1: Soft Polishing Cloth (Best for Light Tarnish)
Use a dedicated silver polishing cloth — available at most jewelry or hardware stores — and gently buff the surface in straight lines (not circles). This is the safest and most effective everyday cleaning method.
Method 2: Mild Soap & Warm Water (Best for Dirt & Oils)
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in warm (not hot) water.
- Soak the piece for 2–3 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, paying attention to crevices and engravings.
- Rinse thoroughly under clean water.
- Pat dry immediately with a soft cloth — never leave silver to air dry, as water spots can form.
Method 3: Baking Soda & Lemon Juice (For Tarnish & Dullness)
Mix a small amount of baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice to form a paste — this combination works well to lift tarnish and restore shine. No lemon juice on hand? Baking soda mixed with just a little water works great on its own too. Apply gently with a soft cloth or toothbrush, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry immediately. Use sparingly as it is mildly abrasive.
Method 4: Pencil Eraser (Spot Cleaning Oxidation)
A plain pencil eraser is a surprisingly effective tool for removing surface oxidation from small areas. Simply rub gently over the tarnished spot as if erasing pencil marks — the friction lifts the oxidation without scratching the silver. Wipe clean with a soft cloth afterward. This works especially well on flat surfaces and smooth areas.
Avoid: Toothpaste, bleach, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive scrubbers — these can scratch or damage the silver surface.
How to Store Sterling Silver
- Store in an airtight pouch or zip-lock bag. Limiting air exposure is the single best way to prevent tarnish.
- Keep pieces separate. Silver can scratch against other metals or hard surfaces — store each piece individually.
- Add an anti-tarnish strip to your jewelry box or pouch for extra protection.
- Avoid humid environments like bathrooms — store in a cool, dry place instead.
What About Oxidized Silver?
Some of our pieces, like the Engraved Oxidized Ear Cuff, feature intentional oxidization — a darkening treatment that highlights texture and detail. For these pieces, avoid polishing cloths and the eraser method on the darkened areas, as this will remove the oxidized finish. Clean gently with mild soap and water only.
Shop Our Sterling Silver Collection
Ready to find your next piece? Browse our handcrafted ear cuffs and earrings — each made by hand in Greece from 925 sterling silver.