Jewelry care

Silver 925: Properties, Care & Cleaning Guide for Silver Jewelry

White & shiny, with centuries of history and modern protection techniques. Learn how to keep your silver jewelry shining — properly and safely.

In 30’’ — what you need to know

  • Silver 925 = 92.5% silver + 7.5% alloy (hardness/durability).
  • "Tarnishing" = natural oxidation/sulfurization, not a defect. It comes off with proper cleaning.
  • Rhodium plating (white/black) & 24K gold plating reduce tarnishing and increase durability.
  • Avoid toothpaste & harsh abrasives — they scratch and dull the metal.
  • Wear the jewelry last (after cosmetics), store it dry/separately.

What is 925 silver (sterling silver)

Pure silver is soft for everyday use. That’s why in jewelry we use silver 925 (sterling): 92.5% silver + 7.5% other metal (usually copper) for hardness. You will see it stamped as 925. Jewelry with a lower percentage is not considered "silver."

White & shiny: history and name

The symbol Ag comes from the Latin argentum ("white & shiny"), from the Greek argyros ("bright"). Silver, one of the first metals that processed by humans, it remains a reference point for its shine — when polished properly, it shines even more intensely than platinum.

Nerd aside: silver is a top conductor of heat/electricity and is used by industrial to scientific applications. As a precious metal, it is traded internationally per ounce.

Silver in jewelry: textures & aesthetics

In our workshop we work with multiple textures: polished, matte, satin, sandblasted, oxidized, antique. The right texture elevates the design and the feel in the hand.

See our detailed guide: Jewellery Care.

Why does silver "tarnish"?

The tarnish is a thin surface oxidation/sulfurization from contact with sulfur compounds in the air. It is not metal damage and can be fixed. Contributing factors: pool chlorine, sweat/brine, cosmetics/perfumes.

At first, a soft cloth is enough. If it has progressed, use special silver cleaner (silver dip/cloth) with care (see HowTo below).

Care & storage: the "rules" of silver

  • Last on, first off: apply cosmetics/perfume/hairspray first, then the jewelry.
  • No water/sweat/pool/gym: chlorine & salts accelerate blackening.
  • After each use: quick wipe with a soft cotton cloth.
  • Mild washing: lukewarm water + neutral soap, good drying.
  • Storage: in airtight zip bags, away from light/moisture, separate from other jewelry.
  • Bonus: use anti-corrosion strips in the storage box.

How to clean silver jewelry — properly (HowTo)

  1. Preparation: wear nitrile gloves, work in a well-ventilated area.
  2. Gentle washing: lukewarm water + neutral soap, gently with fingers. Rinse, dry well.
  3. Light dullness; use a soft silver cloth with straight motions (not circular).
  4. Strong blackening? short silver dip according to product instructions. Avoid stones/pearls/corals.
  5. Final finish: clean, dry cloth. Store in a zip bag.

Do not use toothpaste: it contains abrasives that scratch and dull — the "quick hack" backfires.

Rhodium & Gold Plating: professional protection

In our workshop, we apply where appropriate:

  • Rhodium Plating (white/black): rhodium = noble, hard, doesn't "blacken", increases resistance to impacts/distortions.
  • 24K Gold Plating: for a warm, luxurious tone — it doesn't "blacken", but requires gentle use for the longevity of the plating.

Do you want resurfacing or service? Contact us — we undertake maintenance/revitalization.

Discover Emmanuela silver jewelry

Handmade quality, modern aesthetics, durability techniques.

Frequently asked questions about silver

Does silver have "antibacterial" properties?

At a laboratory level, silver ions show antimicrobial action. However, in jewelry the benefit is secondary; the main advantage is the aesthetics and craftsmanship.

Can I shower/swim with silver jewelry?

It's best not to: water, chlorine, and salts accelerate tarnishing and wear surfaces.

What is rhodium plating? Will it wear off?

A thin rhodium plating that "seals" the surface. It is resistant to oxidation, but, like any plating, over the years and with use it may need renewal.

Why shouldn't I use toothpaste?

Abrasives scratch the metal and dull the surface. Prefer a silver cloth or special solution.

How do I properly store my silver?

Dry, in airtight bags, separate from other hard objects. Bonus: anti-corrosion strips.

What do I do if it has "tarnished" a lot?

Follow the HowTo. If it has stones/pearls, avoid dip — send it to us for professional cleaning.

Do you have questions?

We'd be happy to help: info@emmanuela.gr · Tel.: +30 239 1021132