• Sterling silver jewelry should be stored in a cool dry place to reduce environmental damage.


• Consider keeping each piece in an individual cloth pouch to prevent scratching.


• Use a jewelry cleaner or polishing solution at least once a month to clean the surface of silver jewelry to help maintain its luster.


• Use a soft cloth to clean silver; never use a toothbrush or other abrasive material that might result in scratching.


• Clean silver at the first signs of tarnishing, when a yellowish tint appears on the jewelry. If you wait until the silver has turned black, you'll have to scrub harder and may damage the shine on the jewelry.


• Consider using chemical dipping agents which clean jewelry without scrubbing.


• Avoid cleaners that contain ammonia which can also turn silver jewelry black, consider soapy water instead.

About the Author

Antigone Arthur is an award-winning author and freelance writer providing consumer information on such topics as silver necklaces, sterling silver charms, and engagement rings.