How to Care for Your Sterling Silver Jewellery

How to Clean Your Sterling Silver Jewellery — The YIRU Way

Your sterling silver jewellery is more than an accessory — it's a vessel for intention, ritual, and emotional resonance. Over time, even the finest silver can darken and tarnish. Tarnish isn’t just a visual change — it can affect the energetic clarity your jewellery holds.

At YIRU, cleaning silver combines physical resetting with spiritual realignment for a holistic approach.

Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver) naturally reacts with its surroundings. Tarnishing is a normal chemical process — not a flaw.

Cause What Happens
Air & Humidity Sulfur compounds bond with silver, creating a dark patina.
Salt & Sweat Speed up oxidation — especially in damp climates.
Lotions, Soaps, Perfume Leave residues that dull the surface and energy.
Chlorine & Cleaning Agents May corrode silver and damage finishes over time.

Gentle At-Home Cleaning Methods for Sterling Silver Jewellery

1. Soap & Warm Water (for light tarnish)

Best for daily wear pieces that just need a freshen-up.

Steps:

  1. Add a few drops of soap into warm water.
  2. Quickly soak your piece (avoid soaking gemstone jewellery).
  3. Gently wipe with a soft cloth.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  5. Pat dry gently — do not rub.
Spiritual Tip: Clean your piece after energy work, intention-setting rituals, or full moon use.

2. Baking Soda & Foil (for heavy tarnish)

This method reverses tarnish safely through a chemical reaction.

Steps:

  1. Line the bowl with foil.
  2. Place jewellery directly on foil.
  3. Sprinkle baking soda generously over pieces.
  4. Pour boiling water until items are fully submerged.
  5. Wait one minute, flipping once if necessary.
  6. Remove, rinse well, and dry softly.

Caution: Avoid this method with soft stones, glue-set gems, or delicate pieces.

What NOT to Use on Sterling Silver Jewellery

Avoid Reason
Toothpaste Abrasive; can scratch the surface
Vinegar Too acidic; may damage stones or settings
Chemical silver dips Often too harsh and unsafe to use
Paper towels Can scratch or leave fibres and residue

Cleaning by Jewellery Type

Jewellery Condition Best Method
Light tarnish or daily wear Soap + warm water
Heavy tarnish, plain silver Baking soda & foil method
Intricate or symbolic pieces Soft cloth or paste
Jewellery with stones Soap + cloth only (no soaking)

How to Store Sterling Silver

Proper storage protects your jewellery from tangling, tarnishing, and energetic disruption.

  • Use anti-tarnish cloth or pouch
  • Store pieces separately to avoid scratches
  • Avoid storing in damp bathrooms
  • Add silica gel packets or chalk to reduce moisture