How to Care for Sterling Silver, 10k & 14k Jewelry

     Just because your ring is stamped 14k, 10K or 925, this does not mean that the metal will not tarnish. As a matter of fact, the patina process or oxidation is slowed when the content is such that the oxidation is mixed with other metals. Brass is resistant to corrosion as well as nickel and other popular alloys.

     When the word “vintage” is used in the title of a piece of jewelry the first thing that should be apparent is the darker or faded look of the metal used to make the original. Just like a fine wine, the art of making jewelry can be graded by its ability to fair time and the care an owner by which its condition was sustained. That tiny diamond passed down by Grandma or Grandpa can be one of the most valuable items a descendant will ever own because the item was tucked carefully in a trinket or jewelry box to pass down to someone worthy of the heritance. Since this item meant so much to someone that they hid it from everyone except on special occasions, the recipient has an obligation to carry this meaningful tradition and pass it again to the child deserving of the task.  A jewelry piece need not be 100 years old to have meaning by a friend or family member. Has your daughter or son ever eyed a special piece of jewelry inside your jewelry box? If so, you have an obligation to care for this piece of jewelry, no matter how much the cost, with extra caution because this is the piece that they will treasure when you are gone.

     I have gathered some information to help you understand a little bit about the necessary maintenance for those pieces that you now own.
Firstly, many different chemicals can cause a ring to leave a green or black stain on your finger. The most significant offender is chlorine. Gold is impervious to most chemicals, but chlorine will eat away at gold. Many other metals, such as sterling silver, can also be damaged by chlorine. Chemicals in makeup and body lotion can also elicit a negative reaction. There are many elements in body cream that are harder than metals used in jewelry. These elements can wear off microscopic pieces of metal that do not reflect light, causing discoloration around the finger. Salty air can also create a chemical reaction when mixed with sweat.

     Alloys and acid: Jewelry is usually made of a precious metal mixed with a metal alloy. Common metal alloys include nickel and copper. Metal alloys can cause an allergic reaction, causing a black or green ring to form around the finger. The acid in your skin can also cause a reaction with some metals, which can result in discoloration.

     Prevention: Chemicals, alloys and acid should not keep you from wearing your rings. There are many things you can do to prevent the dreaded green or black finger stain. Remove your rings before swimming in swimming pools or hot tubs. Avoid wearing your rings when handling any household chemicals. You should also remove your rings at night and clean them regularly. If these tips aren't enough to prevent your rings from leaving a stain on your finger, consider having the bands coated with rhodium on the inside to prevent a reaction. Your jeweler can coat your rings quickly and affordably.

     I hope I have help you understand the need to care for your jewelry and invite you to visit me on occasion at buyzjewelry to see if there is that special piece of jewelry that might have the potential for lasting memories. See you there! .....Crystal