I found myself sifting through my jewellery box the other day, each piece holding a story, a memory. My fingers stumbled upon one of my favourites - a very simple, silver necklace. The one that's seen the best dates, the impromptu road trips, and the countless 'just because' selfies. But today, it's different: A tiny black spot appeared, intruding on its familiar gleam. It's the bane of every sterling silver piece's existence: tarnish.

I knew my ring was just going through the inevitable rite of passage that silver jewellery experiences, but it didn't mean I had to like it. That's the thing about silver, though - it's tricky. So, I wanted to learn more about why silver jewellery - or even true silverware - tarnishes... and more importantly, was silver-plated jewellery better? Or gold-plated? 

So, instead of doing the laundry, or putting away the dishes (is it just me or are both of those things never ending?!), I decided to do a deep dive into why silver jewellery in particular tarnishes, and to share it with you.

The more I delved into it, the more it becomes a quirky science lesson, unraveling why silver tarnishes and how it compares to its cousins, gold and silver-plated jewellery. And guess what? There's a silver lining (pun intended); with a little TLC, my ring can continue being the star of my Instagram stories.

Join me as we dive into the whimsical world of tarnishing, learn how to keep our cherished pieces gleaming.

Understanding Tarnishing

First, I had to understand what tarnishing actually was. Jewellery tarnishing is like the plot twist in our shiny story. While metals like silver are known for their gleaming appeal, they too have their quirks. When silver and sulfur particles in the air decide to Netflix and chill, they create silver sulfide—the dark, less shiny version of your jewellery. It’s like silver’s way of saying, “I’ve mingled, mingled with the air, and now I’ve got a bit of character.” This natural process is as predictable as your craving for a caffeine fix on a dreary Monday morning; it’s bound to happen!

Now, let’s unveil the other characters in the tarnishing drama. Water, especially the type that has a season pass to your local swimming pool (hello, chlorine), and other harsh chemicals like bleach are notorious for accelerating the tarnishing process. They are like the unruly guests that spike the punch at the tarnish party. That's why we always suggest removing your jewellery before you go swimming, or clean your house.

And then, there’s your sweat. Yes, even the tiny droplets that escape your pores during a summer stroll or a workout session carry substances that can interact with the metal, encouraging tarnish to settle in. It’s like your jewellery is keeping a record of your active endeavours, albeit in a less shiny manner... which is why we highly recommend removing your jewellery before a workout session. Plus, you wouldn't want to lose your pieces at the gym!

Gold and Silver-Plated Jewellery vs. Solid Silver

In the scintillating world of jewellery, the choice between solid silver, silver-plated, and gold-plated pieces is much like choosing between a classic novel, a thrilling novella, or a glamorous glossy magazine. Each has its own charm, story, and a place on your shelf (or in your jewellery box). Let’s explore these shiny narratives a bit more.

Solid silver, with its pure essence, is like that timeless novel you can read over and over again. Its authenticity is captivating, embodying a rich history and a promise of durability. However, tarnishing is part of its storyline.

For those who love a good sparkle but are on a budget, silver-plated jewellery is the go-to choice. It’s the thriller novella of the jewellery world—short, sweet, and easy on the wallet. The thin layer of silver gives it a high-shine facade, while the base metal core keeps it affordable. However, the plot twist comes when tarnish makes an appearance sooner due to the thinner silver exterior. But fear not, with a gentle cleaning routine, the gleam can play the lead role for a good, long time.

Stepping into the realm of gold-plated jewellery is like flipping through a glossy magazine filled with glamour and allure. The gold layer is the headline act, bringing a luxurious glow, while the base metal is the supportive background story. Unlike its silver counterparts, gold resists tarnish with a chic nonchalance, thanks to its less reactive nature. However, the golden layer might thin out over time, especially if it faces harsh chemicals or rough handling, revealing the base metal that might tarnish. But with a gentle touch and proper care, your gold-plated pieces can continue to grace the cover of your personal style magazine.

Tackling Tarnish: Prevention and Restoration

Now that we’ve romanced the science and aesthetics of jewellery tarnishing, let’s arm ourselves with the sword of knowledge to keep the gloom at bay. Consider this your playbook for maintaining that fresh-out-of-the-box gleam.

Prevention is Best

• Store Smart: Your jewellery prefers a chill, dry place when not adorning you. Consider airtight containers or zip-lock bags as their cozy homes, and a piece of chalk or a silica gel packet as their roommates to keep moisture, tarnish's best buddy, at bay.
• Wear it Well: Make your jewellery the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off to avoid the wrath of perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays.
• Clean Regularly: A gentle cleaning routine can go a long way. Mild soap, water, and a soft cloth can do wonders. For a deeper cleanse, specialized silver polishing cloths and jewellery cleaning solutions are available. Note: Use cleaners specially formulated for gold for your gold or gold-plated pieces.

Restoration to the Rescue

• Mild Soap and Water: A gentle bath can help restore the sparkle. Remember, avoid submerging your pieces for too long.
• DIY Approach: Mix baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply with a soft cloth, gently rub the tarnished areas, rinse with warm water, and dry thoroughly.
• Professional Cleaning: When in doubt, or if your jewellery has intricate designs or stones, consider a professional cleaning service to ensure the longevity and beauty of your pieces.

A Word of Caution about Ultrasonic Cleaners

Ultrasonic cleaners might seem like a magic wand for jewellery cleaning with their ability to shake loose dirt and grime from every nook and cranny. However, they come with a set of caveats that are worth considering before you dive in.

These machines generate sound waves that create microscopic bubbles, which in turn clean your precious pieces. While this sounds efficient and futuristic, the vibration can be potent enough to knock out gems from their settings, especially if they were already loose or the setting was weakened. The intense cleaning action might also be too harsh for softer stones or vintage pieces with intricate detailing.

Moreover, the ultrasonic waves can exacerbate any pre-existing fractures in gemstones, leading to further damage. And let's not forget, the materials of your jewellery also play a crucial role; not all metals and gems are ultrasonic-friendly.

Before opting for an ultrasonic cleaning, it's wise to know your jewellery's material, condition, and whether it can withstand the cleaner's vigorous action. When in doubt, a professional jeweller’s advice and cleaning service are your best bet to ensure the longevity and shine of your cherished Regal Gems pieces.

Go with the Gold (or Silver) Plated

Considering gold or silver-plated jewellery from Regal Gems? It’s a wise choice to enjoy the metallic allure with a lesser tarnish tantrum. Plus, we'll gift you a free soft cleaning cloth with every order!

By taking these steps to heart, you can prolong the interval between tarnish touchdowns, ensuring your cherished pieces from Regal Gems Jewellery Co. continue to shine bright and dazzle amidst the oohs and aahs.