Last Updated on March 24, 2022
You’ve purchased a beautiful piece of sterling silver jewelry and now you’re wondering: Can sterling silver jewelry get wet?
We’ll answer this question and more, including:
- What is sterling silver?
- How long does sterling silver last?
- Can you shower with sterling silver jewelry?
- How to care for sterling silver jewelry?
- Can you wear sterling silver every day?
- What ruins sterling silver?
- Will humidity tarnish sterling silver?
- How to remove tarnish from sterling silver?
- Can sterling silver jewelry turn your skin green?
Contents
Can Sterling Silver Jewelry Get Wet?
The short answer is yes, sterling silver jewelry can get wet. However, exposing sterling silver jewelry to water increases the risk of oxidation and darkening.
What Is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is an alloy metal composed of 92.5% silver by weight and 7.5% other metals, primarily copper.
How Long Does a Sterling Silver Item Last?
A sterling silver item can last up to 30 years with proper care.
Can Water Quality Impact Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Yes, water quality can impact sterling silver jewelry. Water filled with minerals or other chemicals may tarnish sterling silver items.
Can You Shower While Wearing Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Yes, but showering with sterling silver jewelry increases the risk of oxidation and discoloration. It is ideal to remove your sterling silver item prior to taking a shower.
Does Sterling Silver Jewelry Turn Green In The Shower?
Sterling silver can become discolored in the shower if exposed to harsh chemicals or salts often found in shower products.
How To Care for Sterling Silver Jewelry?
To clean a sterling silver item, wash by hand using hot, soapy water. Once thoroughly cleansed, rinse well with hot water and immediately hand dry.
How To Protect Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Store sterling silver jewelry in cool, dark places. Be sure to store pieces separately and avoid direct sunlight whenever possible.
Can You Store Sterling Silver Jewelry In a Plastic Bag?
No, do not store sterling silver jewelry in plastic bags. This is because plastic bags contain sulfur and can trap moisture, resulting in tarnishing.
Can You Wear Sterling Silver Jewelry Daily?
Yes, you can wear sterling silver jewelry every day. However, be sure to remove the item prior to participating in a tarnish-inducing activity and avoid moisture, open air, and harsh chemicals.
What Chemicals Tarnish Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Sterling silver jewelry can tarnish when exposed to a variety of chemicals, including:
- Chlorine
- Salts
- Hairspray
- Perfume
- Body lotion
Will Humidity Tarnish Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Yes, humidity can tarnish sterling silver jewelry.
Is Sterling Silver Jewelry Safe for Pools?
No. Wearing sterling silver jewelry within a pool will expose the item to chlorine which can result in oxidation and tarnishing.
Does Sterling Silver Jewelry Rust?
Sterling silver jewelry does not rust. However, sterling silver can tarnish when exposed to harsh chemicals and may become tarnished over time.
How Long Does It Take for Sterling Silver Jewelry To Tarnish?
Sterling silver jewelry can tarnish anywhere between 2 months and 3 years. However, removing tarnish and preserving your sterling silver item is relatively easy.
Can You Fix Tarnished Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Yes, tarnished sterling silver jewelry can be fixed by using a baking soda and water paste. Additionally, high-quality silver polish can be used to remove tarnish from a sterling silver item.
How To Remove Tarnish From Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Use a high-quality silver polish to remove tarnish from sterling silver jewelry. Additionally, make sure to properly clean and store sterling silver items to preserve longevity.
Can Sterling Silver Jewelry Get Sweaty?
Yes, sterling silver jewelry can be exposed to sweat. However, it is preferable to remove sterling silver items prior to exercising to reduce tarnishing.
Can Sweat Tarnish Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Yes, the chemicals within sweat can tarnish sterling silver jewelry.
Can Sterling Silver Jewelry Turn Your Skin Green?
Yes, there is a possibility that .925 sterling silver can turn your skin green.
Conclusion: Keep Sterling Silver Jewelry Dry
Avoid exposing your sterling silver jewelry to water, humidity, and harsh chemicals. Remember to thoroughly wash and properly store your sterling silver jewelry to preserve the longevity of your items.
Find out which is better for you with our helpful guide Stainless Steel VS Sterling Silver: Which One Is Better?
