Sterling silver is considered a precious metal. It is stronger than solid silver and can be prone to scratching if not treated with proper care.
Tarnishing naturally occurs with even the most expensive sterling silver. Tarnishing is caused by a chemical reaction between the sterling silver and the air as well as any chemicals that come in contact with it. Although rare, some individual body chemistries can react with sterling silver and cause tarnishing. Pregnancy, thyroid disorders, hormone levels, medications and more can affect body alkalinity versus acidity, and may cause a reaction with your piece. It’s definitely a wild-card and is based on the individual.
To care for your silver pieces, we recommend removing your jewelry during physical activities such as exercising, gardening, cleaning and swimming, etc. We also suggest you remove your jewelry when applying all types of beauty products, including lotions, perfumes, makeup, hairspray, etc. and avoiding prolonged exposure to chlorine, pools, hot tubs and spas. Sulfur is very corrosive and should be avoided, and can be found in household products (fruit juice, eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, rubber, steel wool).
