Will Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time. Tarnishing is a normal chemical reaction that occurs when the silver comes into contact with oxygen, moisture, oils, perspiration, and certain chemicals in the environment.

Tarnishing does not mean that the jewelry is defective or that it is not genuine sterling silver.

Some sterling silver jewelry is rhodium plated. Rhodium is a precious metal that is often applied as a thin protective coating over sterling silver. It gives the jewelry a bright, highly polished, white-metal appearance and can help protect the underlying silver from tarnishing.

However, rhodium plating is a surface coating and can wear over time, particularly on areas that experience frequent contact or friction. Exposure to chemicals, lotions, perfumes, chlorine, and frequent wear can also contribute to the plating wearing away. Once the rhodium coating wears, the underlying sterling silver may become visible and can begin to tarnish.

To help protect sterling silver and rhodium-plated jewelry, store your jewelry in a clean, dry place when you are not wearing it. Avoid exposing it to chlorine, saltwater, perfumes, lotions, hairspray, and household chemicals. Remove jewelry before swimming, showering, exercising, or using cleaning products.

For rhodium-plated jewelry, avoid abrasive silver-polishing cloths and aggressive polishing, as these can remove or damage the rhodium coating. Instead, gently clean the piece with a soft, lint-free cloth.

If the rhodium plating eventually wears away, the jewelry may be professionally cleaned and re-plated by a qualified jeweler.

With proper care, both sterling silver and rhodium-plated jewelry can remain beautiful for many years.