By Sambelle Home · May 15, 2025 · 3 min read
Sterling silver and gold-plated jewelry need basic care to stay looking their best. Here is how to maintain them.
Prevent tarnish
Sterling silver tarnishes when exposed to air, moisture, and chemicals. Store pieces in airtight bags or a lined jewelry box. Put jewelry on last, after perfume and lotion, and take it off first at night.
Cleaning
Wipe sterling silver with a polishing cloth after each wear. For deeper cleaning, use warm water with a drop of mild dish soap and a soft brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid chemical cleaners on plated pieces.
Gold-plated care
Gold plating wears over time. Avoid water, sweat, and friction to extend the life of the plating. Clean with a dry soft cloth only. Store separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching.
Storage
Keep pieces separated to prevent tangling and scratching. A jewelry box with individual compartments or small zip-top bags works well. Add anti-tarnish strips for sterling silver.
With simple care, your jewelry will look beautiful for years.
