How to clean silver jewellery at home (without damaging it)

Silver that has gone a little dark is not ruined. Most of the time a gentle clean brings it back. The trick is knowing what is safe for each kind of piece.

Why silver turns dark

925 silver reacts slowly with air, sweat, perfume and damp. That is why a piece left in a bathroom or worn to the gym darkens faster. It is normal, and it does not mean the silver is fake.

Everyday cleaning

After you wear a piece, wipe it with a soft, dry cotton cloth before you put it away. For plain silver without stones, a little mild soap in lukewarm water and a very soft brush is enough. Rinse, then dry it completely.

Plated pieces: go gently

Rhodium, gold and rose gold plating is a thin layer on the silver. Do not use toothpaste, baking soda, silver dip or rough cloths on plated pieces, because they rub the plating off. A soft dry cloth is all they need.

Polki, kundan and pearls

Never soak polki, kundan or pearl jewellery. Water can get behind the stones and dull them. Wipe gently with a dry cloth. Put perfume and hairspray on first and your pearls on last.

How to store silver

Keep each piece in its own soft pouch or a small zip bag, in a dry drawer away from the bathroom. Bracelets and chains stored loose scratch each other and tangle.

When to ask us

If a stone feels loose or a clasp does not close properly, stop wearing the piece and contact us. For more tips, see our care guide.