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MAPLE Guide to Cleaning Silver 925 Jewelry
Silver 925, also known as Sterling Silver, is the jewelry quality standard around the world. The alloy consists of 92.5% silver, hence Silver 925, with the remaining 7.5% made of copper or another metal.
Silver 925 is a favoured choice for jewelry because its durable, affordable, stylish and hypoallergenic, provided the remaining metals are not a skin irritant.
MAPLE’s jewelry is made using recycled sterling silver which still maintains its quality and durability while supporting ethical jewelry production.
Caring for Your Jewelry
General Maintenance
Regular cleaning & polishing is recommended to remove tarnish, and restore shine, sparkle & lustre.
Jewelry can oxidize over time by exposure to the air so storing in a cloth lined jewelry box is recommended to minimize tarnishing.
If you're jewelry has gemstones, check regularly for loose settings or gemstones. If you notice any issues take to a jeweller for repair.
What to Avoid
Never wear your jewelry in the swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi or shower.
Remove while cleaning, as harsh chemicals can damage the surface and cause discolouration.
Apply beauty products (lotions, perfumes, hairsprays or cosmetics) or sunscreen prior to wearing your jewelry to minimize contact with the silver.
It's best to remove your jewelry during physical activity as sweat contains acid and salts that can tarnish the silver. Additionally, rough handing can scratch or dent the silver.
Cleaning Guide
This is the most safe and effective way to clean your Silver 925 jewelry.
Materials Needed:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm Water
- Soft cloth or Microfiber cloth
- Soft-bristled toothbrush (optional)
- Silver polishing cloth (optional)
Steps:
- Check if your jewelry has a gemstone. If so, refer to our jewellery gemstone guide for adjusted soak times.
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a small bowl.
- Soak for the jewelry for 5-10 minutes in the soap mixture.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or cloth to gently scrub the jewelry.
- Rinse under cool water removing soap residue.
- Thoroughly dry using a soft or microfibre cloth.
- Optional - polish with a silver polishing cloth. Be mindful of over polishing as you can wear down the silver.
Cleaning Silver 925
FAQ
Can I use a steam cleaner or an ultrasonic cleaner to clean my jewelry?
Yes, you can for Silver 925 items.
However, we strongly recommend against using these cleaners for 14K Gold Plated products as you risk stripping the layer.
Also, if you're jewelry has gemstones, do not use either as you can damage or crack the stone, loosen the settings or remove any coating or treatment on the stone.
How do I clean tarnished Silver 925 jewelry?
In cases of heavy oxidation, we always recommend to take your jewelry to a professional jeweller. Or you can buy a jewellery cleaner and follow the instructions on the label. There are at home methods using baking soda, but try at your own risk.
Do not use the baking soda method on jewelry with gemstones.
How can I disinfect my jewelry without damaging it?
The safest way to disinfect your Silver 925 jewelry without damaging it is by following the cleaning guide steps above.
Another way is to gently wipe the jewelry in hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol but use caution as prolonged exposure or soaking can potentially dull the shine.
Are there any cleaning solutions that I should avoid?
We do not recommend using bleach, ammonia, vinegar, lemon juice or toothpaste. These solutions can cause oxidation, discolouration, or scratch the silver.
