Most damage to silver jewellery is done by well-intentioned cleaning. Silver is a soft metal and the majority of household remedies are abrasive.
Why silver tarnishes
Tarnish is silver sulphide, formed when the metal reacts with sulphur compounds in the air. It is a surface reaction, not corrosion, and it does not damage the piece. Humidity accelerates it. So do wool, rubber bands, certain papers, and — commonly — cosmetics and perfume.
Cleaning, in order of preference
| Method | Use on | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Dry polishing cloth (impregnated) | Light tarnish, smooth surfaces | Very low |
| Warm water, mild soap, soft brush | Dirt rather than tarnish | Low |
| Proprietary silver dip | Heavy tarnish, plain silver only | Strips patina; harmful to stones and oxidised finishes |
| Bicarbonate and foil | Emergency only | Can dull surface, unpredictable on alloys |
| Toothpaste | Never | Abrasive. It removes metal. |
Oxidised and textured finishes
Deliberately oxidised areas — the dark recesses that give texture its depth — are tarnish that the maker put there on purpose. Dips and heavy polishing remove it, and it does not come back on its own. On any textured or blackened piece, use a cloth on the raised surfaces only.
Stones
Pearls and porous stones should never go near a silver dip, an ultrasonic cleaner, or prolonged water. Biwa pearls in particular are drilled and strung, and water wicks into the drill hole and weakens the thread.
Storage
- Airtight, individually — a small zip bag per piece prevents both tarnish and scratching.
- Away from bathrooms. Humidity is the main accelerant.
- Not in wool or on rubber. Both release sulphur.
- Put jewellery on last, after perfume and cosmetics, and take it off first.