How to Care for Your Sterling Silver Jewellery

Sterling silver is one of the most beautiful metals in jewellery making — but like all precious metals, it benefits from a little care and attention. At Burbi, we want your pieces to last a lifetime, so here are our top tips for keeping your silver jewellery looking its very best.

Why Does Silver Tarnish?

Tarnishing is a natural process that happens when silver reacts with sulphur compounds in the air. It's not a sign of poor quality — in fact, even the finest sterling silver will tarnish over time. The good news is that tarnish is easy to remove and prevent with the right care.

Everyday Tips for Keeping Silver Looking Great

• Wear it often! Believe it or not, wearing your silver jewellery regularly is one of the best ways to keep it shiny. The natural oils in your skin help to polish the metal as you wear it.
• Put it on last. Apply perfume, hairspray, lotions, and makeup before putting on your jewellery. Chemicals in these products can accelerate tarnishing.
• Remove before swimming or bathing. Chlorine, salt water, and soaps can all damage silver and speed up tarnishing. Always remove your jewellery before swimming, showering, or doing the washing up.
• Remove during exercise. Sweat can cause tarnishing, so it's best to take your jewellery off before a workout.

How to Clean Your Silver Jewellery

For regular cleaning, a soft cloth is all you need. Gently buff your jewellery in straight lines (not circular motions) to restore its shine. For a deeper clean:

• Use a small amount of mild washing-up liquid diluted in warm water
• Gently clean with a soft toothbrush, paying attention to any detailed areas
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water
• Dry completely with a soft cloth before storing

You can also use a specialist silver polishing cloth, which is ideal for a quick shine between wears.

How to Store Your Silver Jewellery

Proper storage makes a big difference to how quickly silver tarnishes:

• Store pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep pieces in individual pouches or compartments to prevent scratching
• Anti-tarnish pouches or strips are a great investment if you're storing pieces for a longer period
• Avoid storing silver in the bathroom, where humidity can accelerate tarnishing

A Note on Gemstone Pieces

If your Burbi piece features semi-precious gemstones, take extra care when cleaning. Some stones are sensitive to water, heat, or chemicals. When in doubt, simply wipe gently with a dry soft cloth and avoid submerging in water.

With a Little Love, It'll Last a Lifetime

Sterling silver jewellery is incredibly durable and, with the right care, will last for generations. If you ever have any questions about caring for a specific Burbi piece, please don't hesitate to get in touch — we're always happy to help.