How To Care For Silver Without Erasing Its Character
A practical guide to storing, wearing, and cleaning silver while protecting patina and stone settings.
Silver should be treated as a living material, especially when a piece has oxidised recesses, older stone settings, or antique patina. Store each piece separately in a dry pouch, wipe it gently after wearing, and avoid spraying perfume or sanitizer directly on it.
For routine care, use a soft dry cloth first. Avoid harsh dips on turquoise, coral, enamel, antique silver, and deliberately oxidised jewellery because aggressive polishing can flatten the character that makes the piece valuable.
If a clasp, hinge, stone, or patina looks fragile, bring the piece to the gallery before cleaning. A short inspection protects the craft better than guessing at home.