Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Understanding the Causes and How to Care for Your Sterling Silver Jewelry

Silver jewelry is a timeless addition to any collection, but one common concern that many jewelry lovers have is tarnishing. If you've ever noticed that your favorite silver pieces have lost their shine, you might wonder, "Why does sterling silver tarnish?" Let’s dive into this question and explore the reasons behind tarnishing, especially in high-quality Taxco silver jewelry and Mexican silver jewelry.

The Nature of Silver and Sterling Silver

To understand why silver tarnishes, we need to first look at the nature of the metal itself. Pure silver, or fine silver, is too soft to be used in jewelry. If jewelry were made from 100% pure silver, it would be prone to damage and wouldn't hold its shape well. That's where sterling silver comes in.

Sterling silver is an alloy, made up of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of another metal, usually copper. This combination enhances the durability of silver, making it suitable for creating beautiful, lasting jewelry pieces. However, it's important to note that while silver itself doesn't tarnish, the metals in the alloy can. Copper, which is commonly used in sterling silver, reacts with environmental elements and can lead to tarnishing.

What Causes Tarnishing?

Tarnishing happens when silver reacts with sulfur compounds in the air, moisture, or skin oils, causing a darkened layer to form on the surface. Many people assume that only lower-quality silver tarnishes, but that’s not the case. Even pure silver (99.9% silver, or "fine silver") can develop tarnish over time when exposed to sulfur in the air. However, sterling silver—like the beautiful Taxco silver jewelry crafted by skilled artisans—tarnishes more quickly due to its copper content.

Since sterling silver (92.5% silver, 7.5% copper) is an alloy, the small amount of copper in the metal is more reactive to sulfur and oxygen, speeding up the tarnishing process. In contrast, pure silver tarnishes at a much slower rate because it doesn’t contain copper, though it can still darken over time.

This explains why Mexican silver jewelry—especially those made using the traditional Taxco silver jewelry techniques—requires proper care. The presence of copper helps strengthen the silver, making it more durable for everyday wear, but it also means that regular maintenance is key to keeping your jewelry looking its best.

The good news? Silver jewelry care doesn’t have to be a hassle. With just a few simple habits, you can easily keep your favorite pieces shining beautifully for years to come.

How to Care for Your Silver Jewelry

While tarnishing is a natural process, there are several simple steps you can take to slow it down and keep your Taxco silver jewelry shining for years to come.

1. Clean Regularly

One of the most effective ways to prevent tarnish is to clean your jewelry after each wear. Oils from your skin can speed up oxidation, so using a soft cloth to wipe down your silver jewelry will help maintain its shine.

2. Store Properly

When you're not wearing your Mexican silver jewelry, store it in a way that minimizes exposure to air and moisture. Keep your jewelry wrapped in tissue paper and inside a plastic bag to protect it from tarnishing.

3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Avoid exposing your silver jewelry to abrasive substances, such as cleaning products or chlorine. Saltwater, in particular, can cause significant damage, so it's best to remove your silver accessories before swimming or showering.

4. Apply Jewelry Last

It’s a good habit to apply perfume or lotions before putting on your silver jewelry. This way, your pieces won’t come into contact with chemicals that could lead to tarnishing.

5. Quick Cleaning Tips

For a quick clean, use a soft cloth to buff your jewelry and remove any fingerprints or oils. If you notice any tarnishing, rinse your jewelry with lukewarm water and a small amount of hand soap to restore its shine. For a deeper clean, gently use a small amount of toothpaste on a soft cloth to scrub your everyday pieces.

Keep Your Jewelry Shining

By following these simple silver jewelry care tips, you can keep your Taxco silver jewelry looking as beautiful as the day you bought it. It's all about maintenance and proper storage. Remember, silver jewelry, especially Mexican silver jewelry, carries not only beauty but also the legacy of skilled artisans who craft each piece with care.

At Nueve Sterling, I offer a wide selection of stunning sterling silver jewelry from Taxco, Mexico. These pieces are crafted by talented silversmiths who take pride in their work, ensuring you receive only the finest Mexican silver jewelry.

Take good care of your silver pieces, and they will last a lifetime, continuing to elevate your style and mood with every wear.