Quick tip: For step-by-step care and tarnish prevention, see our Jewellery Care & Cleaning guide. Jump to: Featured DIY Electrolytic Bath ↓
So you've discovered your perfect Magpie Gems jewellery and are completely in love with it. Or, you may have come across this blog and become hooked on sterling silver. Regardless of your motivation, you've arrived at the most important question: how do I care for sterling silver jewellery?
Sterling silver is one of the most popular jewellery materials—but it can tarnish. When oxygen or sulphur contacts silver, it forms a surface reaction that looks dull or discoloured. Regular, gentle cleaning keeps your standout pieces gleaming and lasting.
If you're a Magpie Gems lover, you've probably noticed the 925 stamp inside your earrings, ring, necklace or bracelet clasp. Sterling silver (also called 925 silver) is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper for strength. Our silver is nickel-free, to be kinder to sensitive skin.
Best Storage to Prevent Tarnish
Sterling silver reacts with air and humidity. Store pieces in individual, airtight pouches or your Magpie Gems gift box. Unclasp chains and keep pieces separate to prevent scratches. Low humidity is best.
How to Clean Sterling Silver at Home
Start with the gentlest methods first; avoid harsh abrasives and chemical dips—especially on plated jewellery or pieces with stones.
1) Polishing Cloth
When tarnish is light, a polishing cloth is perfect. Use a soft, lint-free cloth (or a treated polishing cloth) and rub gently in straight lines. Avoid paper towels/tissues—they can scratch.
2) Mild Soap & Water
If polishing alone doesn’t do it, wash briefly in lukewarm water with a drop of mild, ammonia- and phosphate-free dish soap. Rinse well and dry completely with a soft cloth.
★ Featured DIY: Electrolytic Bath (Foil + Baking Soda + Salt)
Best for: Heavier tarnish on plain, unplated sterling silver (chains, detailed pieces).
Not for: gold/rosegold-plated jewellery, oxidised finishes, pearls, opals, coral, turquoise, crystals, or glued-in stones.
What you’ll need
- Glass/ceramic bowl or roasting dish
- Aluminium foil (dull side down)
- Boiling water
- Baking soda & table salt (roughly 1 tbsp each per 500 ml water)
- Tongs/spoon, soft cloth
Steps
- Line your heat-safe dish with foil, dull side down, shiny side up.
- Place silver pieces directly on the foil (they must touch the foil).
- Pour in boiling water to cover the jewellery.
- Add baking soda and salt (about 1 tbsp each per 500 ml water). Stir to fully dissolve granules.
- Wait 5–10 minutes. You may notice a sulphur odour—normal during de-tarnishing.
- Lift out with tongs, rinse in warm water, and dry thoroughly. Finish with a light polish.
Troubleshooting
- Still dull? Ensure each piece is in contact with the foil and solution is hot. Replace with fresh solution and repeat briefly.
- Stubborn spots: re-submerge for a short cycle, then finish with a polishing cloth.
More gentle DIY methods
Water & Baking Soda (Paste)
Make a light paste with water and baking soda. Apply sparingly, use a soft brush for crevices, rinse thoroughly and dry. Avoid on plated pieces and delicate stones.
Lemon Juice & Olive Oil (Wipe)
Mix ½ cup lemon juice with 1 tbsp olive oil. Dampen a soft cloth, gently wipe the silver, then rinse and dry. Do not soak.
Benefits of Sterling Silver
Hypoallergenic-friendly
Nickel can irritate skin; our nickel-free sterling silver is a great choice for many with sensitivities.
Long-lasting & Timeless
With proper care, sterling silver can last for decades and become a treasured keepsake.
Feel-good Jewellery
Many people simply love how silver looks and wears every day—easy to style, comfortable, and perfect for layering.
Do you have a thing for silver and crystal jewellery? Explore our collections—there’s never a dull moment.
