Silver jewelry pieces appear minimalist yet very elegant. These can be easily styled with any type of clothing, whether formal or casual. However, one of the most common problems about silver accessories is that they tend to turn black with time.

If you are a lover of 925 sterling silver jewelry, here are some causes of silver tarnish and tips to prevent and clean them off your favorite silver pieces:

Why do silver accessories tarnish?

Silver jewelry may develop a black coating after some time. This tarnish is caused by a chemical reaction when silver comes into contact with air and other substances. Tarnish is a form of corrosion but luckily, it can be removed easily. 

The most common factors that speed up the buildup of tarnish is its contact with tap water due to chlorine, as well as your clothes and your perfume.

How to clean and prevent silver tarnish?

The truth is nothing can prevent tarnishing because it is a natural chemical process. However, it can be slowed down.  Keep in mind the following tips:

1. Clean your silver after every use

Oils and sweat from your skin can accumulate on the silver jewelry. After taking them off, you can use warm water to clean the accessory gently and dry them with a soft cloth

2. Take of your jewelry pieces when taking a bath or cooking

The best way in keeping your accessories in good condition is to minimize its contact with substances which can cause tarnishing. Do not forget to take off any jewelry in the shower, or when you are in the kitchen to cook. You should likewise avoid your silver accessories from rubbing on wool and latex clothing because they also speed up tarnishing.

3. Polish it

You can also reduce the tarnishing on your silver jewelry items by regularly polishing them. When you see first signs of tarnishing, use a polishing cloth to clean your silver items to prevent from further blackening.

4. Have it cleaned by a professional

If your silver items are expensive and delicate, it is best to leave the cleaning to the professionals.