Many people have asked me how to keep their jewellery clean and shiny. Well, first of all, when it comes to sterling silver, an oxidation process occurs over time and is very natural. So don't feel bad when your shiny silver ring starts turning dark over time. This happens more to pieces you don't wear. Your everyday jewellery gets buffed naturally and needs less cleaning.
I personally use an old soft toothbrush and fairy washing up liquid to give any piece a general clean. It will get rid of dirt, however, if the piece is tarnished, I would recommend "Hagerty Silver Clean". It's a silver bath into which you can submerge your silver jewellery for a few minutes. Alternative, you can use a silver polishing cloth. Here's a quick video I did to demonstrate it:
Alternatively, you can mix bicarbonate of soda with lukewarm water to make a paste. Apply this paste to your sterling silver jewellery and gently rub off with a cloth after a few minutes and rise with water.
What to avoid?
Do not use any cleaning solutions such as Hagerty for jewellery with softer stones, such as pearls, as these might be damaged. Don't use hard scrubbing pads as these will scratch your jewellery. Take your jewellery off when showering, swimming or doing the dishes to avoid any unnecessary contact with water. Don't store your precious jewellery with non-precious pieces as these might tarnish your silver. I would also recommend that after moisturising your hands make sure they're dry before putting your rings back on.
And finally, wear your jewellery, as much as you can! Looking after your silver jewellery does not take a lot of time.
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