Sep
Sterling silver is a favored choice for jewelry, but how long until it starts to tarnish? Discover helpful tips for preventing tarnish by clicking here!
Keyword(s): how long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish
Sterling silver stands out for being both stronger and more durable than regular silver and gold. Due to its robust nature and the large number of artisans, both traditional and modern, focusing on sterling silver, this type of jewelry remains extremely popular.
So, how long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish?
This query is a bit more complex than it seems. Tarnish can begin anywhere from 2 months to 3 years. But fret not; tarnish is minor and can be easily cleaned and prevented.
Understanding Sterling Silver
Pure silver, with a purity close to 99.9%, is too soft to be used for jewelry. To enhance its strength and durability, silver is combined with copper, and sometimes zinc or nickel. This alloy is known as sterling silver and is typically about 92.5% pure.
Other silver types include coin silver and silver plating. Coin silver is another alloy, usually no more than 90% pure.
Silver plating involves coating a less valuable metal with sterling silver, which wears off over time, making it less appealing.
The term “sterling silver” is believed to originate from silver coins minted by Britain’s King Henry II, valued for their consistency and durability. These coins, with 92.5% purity, were called “Easterling coins,” later shortened to sterling.
Today, the finest silver artisans work with sterling silver, following legends like Charles Lewis Tiffany and Sotirios Bulgaris.
You can easily identify sterling silver jewelry by the “925” stamp, indicating its purity rating.
Defining Tarnish
When metals come into contact with air, they undergo a chemical process called oxidation. This can result in various outcomes such as rust on steel or tarnish on silver.
In silver alloys, oxidation occurs as they combine with trace sulfur in the air, which is released from natural organic decomposition and environmental factors like volcanic eruptions and pollution. The reaction between silver and sulfur produces black silver sulfide.
Consequently, tarnish is a thin layer of silver sulfide on your sterling silver.
For example, a large sterling silver platter may develop a brown patina, while a silver locket might show spots of discoloration on its surface or chain.
Timeframe for Tarnish on Sterling Silver
This varies. As previously mentioned, the time it takes for tarnish to form depends on the sterling silver piece’s exposure to air.
Additionally, natural oils from the skin can hasten oxidation.
In a controlled environment, tarnish may take a couple of years to form on sterling silver. However, if the piece is worn frequently without preventative measures, tarnish could appear within a few months.
Cleaning Sterling Silver
So, what’s the solution? Preventing sterling silver from tarnishing is simple and takes only a few minutes.
The best approach to prevent your beloved sterling silver jewelry from tarnishing is to clean it after each use. This removes any accumulated dirt or natural oils and halts oxidation.
Wash your sterling silver with warm water, gently scrub with a cloth, and then dry. You can even clean it while showering, as long as you dry the piece afterward.
Note: Wearing your sterling silver in the shower is different from wearing it in a pool. Chlorine can accelerate oxidation and tarnish, similar to your body’s natural oils.
Another way to prevent tarnish is by storing your pieces in an airtight jewelry box. Limiting exposure to air reduces oxidation.
You can also use tarnish tabs in your jewelry box. These paper strips absorb sulfur and moisture from the air, protecting your sterling silver. They come in different styles and durations of effectiveness, depending on the manufacturer.
Removing Tarnish
If tarnish has already formed on your sterling silver, there are several ways to remove it, depending on the severity of the oxidation.
For light tarnish or spotting, use a specially coated anti-tarnish cloth to remove the discoloration. However, avoid overusing the cloth to maintain your jewelry’s luster.
A toothbrush and a mild baking soda and water mixture can also handle light tarnishing. Scrub lightly and dry thoroughly.
For heavy tarnishing and full discoloration, an over-the-counter tarnish remover is your best bet. Look for a silver cleaner or “silver dip.” Wright’s Silver Cleaner and Polish Cream is a popular option.
Why Sterling Silver is Ideal
Sterling silver enjoys continuous popularity among consumers and jewelers due to its strength, malleability, and endless design options.
Moreover, sterling silver is an affordable precious metal with a timeless quality. Many pieces feature exclusive designs that make a statement about the wearers’ style and brand.
When you wear the perfect piece, no one will wonder, “How long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish?”
Especially with proper and simple care like storing in an airtight jewelry box, using a readily available cleaner, or just a quick wash.
Explore our wide range of sterling silver offerings or our latest and top-selling jewelry featuring gold or precious stones.
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