Yes, silver plated jewelry will tarnish, though not as quickly or severely as solid sterling silver. Understanding why this happens and how to prevent and clean it is key to keeping your pieces looking their best. This guide will explore the process of tarnishing, factors that influence it, and practical solutions to maintain the shine of your silver plated jewelry.
What is Silver Plating?
Before diving into tarnishing, let's clarify what silver plating actually is. Silver plating involves applying a thin layer of pure silver onto a base metal, usually copper, brass, or nickel silver. This process creates a more affordable alternative to solid silver jewelry, offering a similar look and feel. The thickness of the silver layer varies depending on the quality of the plating, significantly influencing how quickly it tarnishes.
Why Does Silver Plated Jewelry Tarnish?
Silver tarnishes due to a chemical reaction between the silver and sulfur in the air. This reaction forms silver sulfide, a dark, somewhat powdery substance that dulls the silver's shine. Several factors accelerate this process:
How Quickly Does Silver Plated Jewelry Tarnish?
The rate of tarnishing depends heavily on several factors:
- Thickness of the Silver Plating: Thicker plating lasts longer. Thinner plating will tarnish more quickly.
- Exposure to Air and Moisture: Jewelry worn regularly or stored in humid conditions will tarnish faster.
- Body Chemistry: Some individuals have more acidic skin than others, which can accelerate tarnishing.
- Exposure to Chemicals: Cosmetics, perfumes, hairspray, and cleaning products can all contribute to faster tarnishing.
Does the Base Metal Affect Tarnishing?
While the silver plating is the primary concern, the base metal can indirectly influence tarnishing. If the plating wears away, the underlying base metal might be exposed, potentially affecting the overall appearance and potentially causing discoloration.
How to Prevent Tarnish on Silver Plated Jewelry
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some helpful tips:
Proper Storage of Silver Plated Jewelry
Store your silver plated jewelry in a cool, dry place, ideally in airtight bags or a jewelry box lined with anti-tarnish cloth. This limits exposure to air and moisture, slowing down the tarnishing process.
Avoid Contact with Chemicals
Remove your silver plated jewelry before applying lotions, perfumes, hairspray, or cleaning agents. This will help prevent chemical reactions that accelerate tarnishing.
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning can remove accumulating tarnish before it builds up significantly. See the cleaning section below for details.
How to Clean Silver Plated Jewelry
Several methods exist for cleaning silver plated jewelry; however, avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the plating.
Gentle Cleaning Methods
Use a soft cloth, lukewarm water, and a mild dish soap solution. Gently wipe the jewelry clean, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Commercial Silver Cleaning Solutions
Commercial silver cleaning dips or cloths can be effective, but always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the plating.
Can I Restore the Shine of Heavily Tarnished Silver Plated Jewelry?
Heavily tarnished silver plated jewelry may be more challenging to restore. While some gentle cleaning methods might help, heavily tarnished pieces may require professional cleaning or may be beyond repair, depending on the thickness of the plating.
Conclusion
Silver plated jewelry will tarnish over time, but understanding the factors that influence this process allows you to take preventative measures and prolong its shine. By following the tips outlined above, you can effectively care for your silver plated jewelry and enjoy its beauty for years to come. Remember, gentle cleaning and proper storage are key to keeping your pieces looking their best.
