How to care for silver jewelry: How to avoid tarnishing and scratches

Do you want your silver jewelry to shine just as beautifully year after year? Here are our best tips for how to care for your silver jewelry – and avoid unfortunate discoloration and scratches.

Why does silver become discolored?

Silver is a precious and durable metal, but it is also natural for it to react with air and moisture over time. This can cause silver jewelry to darken in color. This is a natural process that can be prevented with proper maintenance.

Discoloration occurs particularly quickly when silver is exposed to:

• Humidity and heat

• Skin contact with perfume, cream, oil or sweat

• Contact with chemicals

Proper storage preserves the shine

To best preserve your silver jewelry, it is recommended to store it in a tight, dry, and dark environment when not in use. A jewelry bag or original gift box usually works great.

Avoid storing jewelry in the bathroom or in contact with other metals, as this can lead to both discoloration and scratches over time.

Avoid contact with chemicals

To best preserve your silver, you should always remove your jewelry before showering, exercising, swimming, or using products such as perfume, lotion, and cleaning products.

A good tip: Put your jewelry on last when you get ready, and only take it off when you get home.

How to clean your silver jewelry

If the silver gets a darker coating, fortunately it is easy to do something about it. Polish the jewelry with a special cloth or silver cleaner, which you can find at us or at most jewelers.

Always rinse thoroughly with water after treatment and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid toothpaste, aluminum foil, steel wool and other abrasives, which can sometimes be touted as “easy solutions” on social media, as they can further damage the surface.

When should you get help from professionals?

If your jewelry has scratches, a dull surface or is severely discolored, we recommend having it professionally cleaned and polished. At Arven, we offer professional cleaning performed by experienced jewelers, giving your jewelry a new lease of life.

A professional refresh makes a big difference, especially for jewelry you've worn for a long time or that has been inherited.

Wear your jewelry – with a little care

Silver jewelry is made to be worn. With regular care and a few simple habits, you can enjoy it for many years to come. A well-maintained silver jewelry not only looks better – it also lasts longer and retains its value, both aesthetically and emotionally.