Silver is one of the most popular metals when it comes to jewellery because it’s perfect for work wear or everyday use. However, despite its many virtues, a lot of people think twice before buying silver jewellery.  This is because they’re all too aware that silver can get tarnished very easily. After being exposed to the air and because of oxidative reactions with sulphur, silver often develops a black coat. This coating might look unsightly, but the good news is, it doesn’t cause permanent damage. Once you remove the tarnish (which can be done easily enough), your silver jewellery will look as good as new. So don’t let the threat of tarnish stop you from buying beautiful pieces of silver jewellery. Here are five tips that will help you prevent your silver from tarnishing and what to do if it does.

1. It’s the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off To keep your jewellery shiny, you need to shield it from as many chemicals as possible. When you’re getting ready to go out, make sure your silver jewellery is the last thing you put on before heading out. This protects it to a large extent from your lotions, perfumes, hair spray and makeup. By contrast, when you return home, your silver jewellery should be the first thing you remove.

2. Storing them in Airtight Containers
To slow down the tarnishing process, your silver jewellery should come into contact with as little air as possible. Wrap each individual piece of silver in tissue and store it in airtight Ziplock bags. You could even store them in air-tight containers if you have them. Never store rubber bands with silver or use rubber bands to close bags containing silver. As rubber bands begin to age, they release sulphur, which can accelerate tarnishing.

3. Polish it Occasionally
Silver is a very soft metal and can easily get scratched if you aren’t careful. Don’t try to remove tarnish with an abrasive cloth because this can just make things worse. Instead, search for soft anti-tarnish wipes that can work miracles against tarnish. These wipes are soaked in a solution that can absorb excess oxygen and sulphur from the air.

4. If the Pieces are Too Fragile, Take them to a Professional
Jeweller for a Thorough Cleaning If you have very delicate earrings you’re afraid might get damaged if you try to treat it yourself, leave it to the professionals. Professional treatment is also your only option if your jewellery is severely tarnished. Jewellery experts have special equipment that can remove layers of tarnish that have built up and reveal sparkling silver underneath.