How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry at Home

Sterling silver darkens over time. That is normal and it does not mean your jewelry is fake or broken. With the right care it takes a few minutes to bring the shine back. This guide shows you what works, what to skip and how to keep your pieces looking new for longer.

Why silver tarnishes

Tarnish is a thin dark layer of silver sulfide. It forms when silver reacts with sulfur compounds in the air. Humidity, sweat, perfume and cosmetics speed this up, which is why pieces left in the bathroom darken faster than pieces kept in a dry drawer.

First check: is your piece plated?

Many modern silver pieces are plated. FIUNA silver pieces are 925 sterling silver with a rhodium plating, and our gold pieces are 925 sterling silver plated with 18k gold. Plating is a thin layer, so it needs gentle cleaning only. Harsh methods that work on plain silver can wear plating away.

Method 1: a soft polishing cloth

For light dullness, a soft, dry microfiber or jewelry cloth is all you need. Rub gently in small circles and turn the cloth to a clean spot as it darkens. This is the safest method for plated pieces.

Method 2: mild soap and lukewarm water

For everyday dirt, lotion or sweat residue, mix a few drops of mild, fragrance-free soap with lukewarm water. Dip the piece briefly, clean details with a very soft brush, rinse quickly and pat it completely dry with a soft cloth. Let it air-dry fully before you store it.

Method 3: salt, baking soda and aluminium foil (plain silver only)

The well-known foil bath can lift heavy tarnish from plain, unplated sterling silver. Do not use it on plated jewelry, on pieces with pearls or stones, or on anything glued. If you are unsure whether a piece is plated, stay with methods 1 and 2.

What to avoid

• Toothpaste and scouring powders: they scratch the surface.
• Bleach, chlorine and strong household cleaners.
• Ultrasonic cleaners for pearls and plated pieces.
• Soaking pearls: they should only be wiped with a damp cloth.

How to slow tarnish down

Put your jewelry on after perfume, creams and hairspray, and take it off before showering, swimming and sport. Store pieces dry and separately, ideally in a closed box or pouch. Read more in our guide on how to store jewelry so it doesn't tarnish and in can you shower with gold-plated jewelry?

Pieces that are easy to care for

Simple, smooth shapes are the easiest to keep shiny: try the Ripple Hoops, the Snake Necklace or anything from our Basic Collection. Curious what the stamp on your jewelry means? Read what 925 means on jewelry.