Jewellery Care Guide — How to Keep Your 925 Silver Looking New
Jewellery Care Guide
Your Unjellic jewellery is made in 925 sterling silver — real silver, not plated steel or alloy. Taken care of properly, it will look as good in two years as it does today. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is 925 Sterling Silver?
925 sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy (usually copper) for strength. It is the international standard for genuine silver jewellery, and is hallmarked ‘925’ to certify its purity. All Unjellic pieces are made from 925 sterling silver.
Gold and rose gold Unjellic pieces use a thick 18K gold plating applied over a 925 sterling silver base.
Daily Wear Tips
- Remove before water: Take off your silver jewellery before swimming, bathing, or washing dishes. Prolonged water exposure — especially chlorinated or salt water — accelerates tarnishing and can degrade plating.
- Remove before exercise: Sweat contains salt and acids that react with silver. Remove jewellery before workouts or heavy physical activity.
- Apply perfume and lotions first: Chemicals in perfume, body lotion, and hairspray can dull silver and damage gold plating. Always put on your jewellery last.
- Remove before sleep: Wearing silver jewellery to bed causes friction and oxidation. Take it off before sleeping.
How to Clean Your 925 Silver Jewellery
- Prepare a bowl of lukewarm water with a small drop of mild, non-abrasive dish soap.
- Dip a soft cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush and gently clean the jewellery.
- Rinse under clean water.
- Pat dry immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not air-dry — water spots can form.
Do not use: Toothpaste, baking soda, ultrasonic cleaners, or abrasive cloths. These scratch silver and remove gold plating.
How to Store Your Silver Jewellery
- Store in the Unjellic gift pouch or box that came with your order. This prevents air exposure and slows oxidation.
- Store pieces separately to prevent scratching.
- Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity.
- Anti-tarnish strips (available at pharmacies) can be placed inside your storage box to absorb sulphur compounds in the air.
Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?
Yes — all sterling silver tarnishes over time when exposed to air, moisture, and chemicals. This is a natural chemical reaction, not a sign of low quality. The rate of tarnishing depends on your skin chemistry, your environment (humid climates tarnish faster), and how often the piece comes in contact with chemicals.
Gold and rose gold plated Unjellic pieces tarnish more slowly because the plating protects the silver base. However, plating does wear with time and heavy use.
Caring for Personalised Pieces
Engraved pieces (initial rings, engraved bracelets) should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth rather than a toothbrush, which can catch in engravings. Avoid soaking personalised pieces.
Questions?
If your piece has discoloured, lost plating, or you’re not sure how to care for a specific item, email us: sales@unjellic.com