Shine On - How to Keep Your Silver Sparkling Like New

Oh, silver. The often-overlooked cousin of its more desirable precious metal counterparts, silver is not only considerably less valuable than gold or platinum, but also widely known to be a much less durable material, more prone to tarnish and damage. Despite this, silver has gained popularity in as of late, and in particular, the silver diamond engagement rings has emerged in recent years as a stylish and more affordable alternative to the traditional gold band. While there is no doubt that the neutral, clean tones of sterling silver make for a fantastic and fashion forward engagement piece, one must take proper precautions to ensure the longevity of a ring that will no doubt see plenty of wear – and, hopefully, garner plenty of wide eyed stares.

One fun fact that even many long time silver owners will be surprised to hear is a challenge to the notion that wearing your engagement band often is not good for it – surprise, the opposite is actually true! That’s right, wearing your ring can actually protect it. This effect is a result of the natural oils from your skin rubbing onto the metal. But, while this will no doubt delight those who enjoy sporting their silver whenever possible, it is similarly important to note the various scenarios where putting on your ring – or, perhaps more accurately, forgetting to take it off – can cost you. One should always remove any jewelry during any high stress physical activity such as working out. Also, remember to set your ring aside any time your hands may be exposed to any type of foreign chemicals or substances, for example when applying hair products, washing dishes, or applying sunscreen.

Another way you can maximize the lifespan of your silver is taking care in how you go about storing it when not in use. Oftentimes, unthinking owners will leave their bands out on a bathroom counter or top of a dresser for days at a time, unaware of the cumulative effect years of subtle oxidation is slowly but surely taking. The most important thing to note when storing your ring is to minimize exposure to moisture. Utilizing airtight plastic bags or storing it alongside an absorbent material such as a silicate will go a long way towards keeping tarnish at bay.

Now, while taking measures such as these will greatly prolong your band’s shine, even the most careful owner will find his or her self having to clean his piece on occasion. Whether you had it on when you took a fall into the mud or forgot to set it aside while doing the dishes, it’s important you know proper care techniques so you don’t do more damage to your silver diamond engagement ring when trying to clean it. To this end, always make sure to apply a fine, non-abrasive cloth and never polish in a circular manner – rather, follow the natural grain of the silver. This will avoid causing small scratches, which over time can lead to oxidation. As well, make sure not to use any high strength solvents on your silver such as ammonia. Keeping all this in mind, you can maintain your engagement band’s luster year after year. For some of today’s finest, authentic, handmade, silver diamond engagement rings, check out OliviaEwing.com.