Sterling silver jewellery is beloved for its appeal, durability, and affordability. Crafted with a standard 92.5 % silver alloy, sterling silver offers a stunning shine while remaining stronger than pure silver. To help you enjoy your pieces for years, here are practical tips that fit everyday life and simple cleaning routines.

1. Know Your Sterling Silver

True sterling silver is made of 92.5 % pure silver mixed with stronger metals like copper. This ensures your pieces maintain shine and resist bending. Many brands, including Anikhya, stamp “925” or “Sterling” on clasps or discreet areas—as a hallmark of authenticity. Look for these marks to confirm you’re wearing genuine sterling silver.

2. Store Smartly

Silver tarnishes when it meets moisture, sulphur, or air. To slow this down:

• Store jewellery in airtight bags or anti‑tarnish pouches.
• Use silica gel packets or store items in a dry jewellery box.
• Keep individual pieces separate to avoid scratches.

These simple steps can help maintain shine between wears.

3. Daily Wear, Daily Care

Believe it or not, wearing your sterling silver often helps prevent tarnish. Natural oils from your skin act as a protective layer. Just remember:

• Remove pieces before showering, swimming, or applying lotions and perfumes.
• Avoid contact with harsh chemicals like chlorine or household cleaners.

By following these habits, you can protect both the look and longevity of your jewellery.

4. Clean with Care

Clean regularly using gentle, effective methods:

1. Use a soft polishing cloth after wearing to remove oils and light tarnish.
2. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and warm water: soak briefly, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth.
3. For stubborn tarnish, a gentle silver cleaner may be used—just follow all instructions carefully.

Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh brushes that could scratch the metal or damage any gemstones.

5. Simple Authenticity Tests

How can you check if your item is real sterling silver?

• Hallmark check: Confirm presence of “925,” “Sterling,” or “S 925.”
• Magnet test: Sterling silver isn’t magnetic—if it sticks, it isn’t genuine.
• Tarnish sign: Real silver develops a black layer over time, which can be polished away. Fake metals may stay shiny or turn green.
• Ice‑cube test: Silver conducts heat quickly—an ice cube placed on real silver will melt fast.
• Smell check: Pure sterling silver has no metallic odour. If your jewellery smells metal‑like, it probably has base metal alloys.

6. Handle with Love

Treat your jewellery gently:

• Avoid dropping, tugging, or banging pieces against hard surfaces.
• Be extra cautious around gemstones—settings may loosen over time.
• When not in use, place rings, bracelets, or chains laid flat to help maintain shape and reduce stress on joints.

7. Go Pro When Needed

If your piece gets heavily tarnished, scratched, or bent:

• Take it to a professional jeweller for polishing or repair.
• Reputable jewellers can re‑plate or strengthen settings without damaging the design.

This kind of annual upkeep can restore shine and protect the piece’s structure.

8. Benefits of Nickel‑Free Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is naturally nickel‑free, which makes it ideal for sensitive skin. It resists irritation or allergic reactions, so it’s suitable for everyday wear—even for those with skin sensitivities.

9. Why Quality Counts

High‑quality sterling silver lasts. Pieces from trusted sources, like Anikhya, undergo proper alloying and have clear hallmarks. Choosing well‑made items means fewer repairs and longer lasting shine.

10. Your Regular Care Routine

Here’s a quick weekly and monthly care routine:

By keeping it simple yet intentional, your collection will continue to shine.

Conclusion

Sterling silver jewellery is a smart investment in both style and everyday wearability. With just a few habits—keeping it dry, storing safely, cleaning gently, and knowing how to test authenticity—you can keep your pieces looking great for years. Choose genuine 925 sterling silver from reputable brands, treat it with care, and it will remain a cherished part of your collection.