Jewellery Care & Cleaning – Magpie Gems
Jewellery Care & Cleaning: How to Clean Sterling Silver & Avoid Tarnish
Keep your Magpie Gems pieces sparkling for years. This jewellery care guide covers exactly how to clean sterling silver safely, prevent tarnish, store your jewellery like a pro, and care for gold-plated and rosegold-plated finishes. All our designs are crafted from nickel-free 925 sterling silver, with optional 24k gold or 18k rosegold plating.
Shop Polishing Cloth Shop Sterling Silver Gold-Plated Rosegold-Plated
How to Clean Sterling Silver (Safe At-Home Method)
- Polish first: Gently rub the piece with a soft polishing cloth to lift surface tarnish.
- Wash if needed: Briefly clean in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap. Avoid soaking.
- Rinse & dry: Rinse thoroughly and pat completely dry with a lint-free cloth.
- Detail clean: Use a soft brush (dry) to reach chains and settings—no abrasives.
- Store airtight: Pop into an anti-tarnish pouch or your Magpie Gems box with a strip.
How to Prevent Tarnish
- Keep it dry: Remove before showering, swimming or workouts.
- Last on, first off: Jewellery goes on after skincare, perfume and hairspray—and comes off before bed.
- Store smart: Use airtight pouches/boxes with anti-tarnish strips; keep pieces separate to avoid scratches.
- Wipe after wear: A quick cloth wipe removes skin oils that speed oxidation.
- Avoid chemicals: Household cleaners and chlorine are no-go zones.
Storage Tips
- Use your Magpie Gems signature gift box or a soft pouch in a cool, dry place.
- Separate chains and pendants; close clasps to prevent tangles.
- Add an anti-tarnish tab to each box for longer-lasting shine.
- Travelling? Pack pieces individually in microfibre pouches.
Care for Gold-Plated & Rosegold-Plated Jewellery
- Gentle only: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth—no silver dips or chemical cleaners.
- Minimise friction: Avoid abrasion from zips, gym gear or stacking that rubs.
- Remove for activities: Take off during sport, housework or swimming.
Explore: Gold-Plated · Rosegold-Plated
Care for Austrian Crystals
- Handle with care; avoid knocks to prevent chipping.
- Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately.
- Avoid soaking and ultrasonic cleaners.
Shine on, beautifully. Keep a polishing cloth handy and store pieces the smart way for lasting brilliance.
Jewellery Care FAQ
How do I clean sterling silver at home?
Start with a soft polishing cloth. If needed, wash briefly in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, rinse, dry thoroughly, then store airtight.
How can I stop my silver from tarnishing?
Keep it dry, store with anti-tarnish strips, wipe after each wear and avoid contact with chemicals, lotions and perfume.
Can I use silver dip on plated jewellery?
No. Avoid chemical dips or abrasive cleaners on gold-plated or rosegold-plated pieces—use a soft cloth only.
Are Magpie Gems pieces nickel-free?
Yes—our sterling silver is nickel-free and ethically sourced in Europe.