Silver is a living metal. It reacts with the environment, with sweat, with air, and with time. This ability to change is also what makes it special — but it requires a minimum of attention to always look its best. Here's everything you need to know.
Why silver tarnishes
The darkening of silver is called oxidation or sulfuration. It's not damage — it's a natural chemical reaction between silver and hydrogen sulfide present in the air. Some factors accelerate the process:
- Contact with pool or sea water (chlorine and salt)
- Intense sweat
- Perfumes, creams, and lotions
- Humid environments
- Contact with paper, rubber, or certain plastics
The good news: oxidation is easily reversed and does not harm solid silver.
Basic cleaning at home
Method 1: Warm water and neutral soap
The safest method for everyday use.
- Mix warm water with a few drops of neutral soap (non-abrasive)
- Submerge the jewelry for 2–3 minutes
- Gently rub with a soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush)
- Rinse with cold water
- Dry completely with a soft cloth — do not leave moisture
Method 2: Baking soda and aluminum foil
For pieces with more intense oxidation.
- Line a container with aluminum foil (shiny side up)
- Add hot water and a tablespoon of baking soda
- Place the jewelry in the liquid — make sure it touches the aluminum foil
- Wait 5–10 minutes
- Remove, rinse well, and dry
This method uses an electrochemical reaction that transfers oxidation from the silver to the aluminum.
Products to avoid
- Bleach or chlorine: corrodes silver
- Excessive vinegar: can affect the finish
- Abrasive products: scratch the surface
- Ultrasonic cleaners for jewelry with stones: can loosen gems
For our natural stone jewelry, only use the warm water and neutral soap method.
How to store correctly
- Store each piece separately to avoid scratching
- Use airtight bags or anti-tarnish paper to slow down oxidation
- Avoid humid drawers or near windows
- Do not store silver with elastic bands (they contain sulfides)
Specific care by jewelry type
Chains: Open them at the clasp before cleaning to access all links. Cuban link chains accumulate more dirt in the folds — a soft-bristled brush is key here.
Rings: These are the pieces that have the most contact with soaps and creams. Remove them when washing your hands or showering if you want to maximize their lifespan.
Bracelets: Frequent contact with sweat. Bi-weekly cleaning recommended if you wear them daily.
The most important habit: wearing it
Silver that is worn maintains its shine naturally due to friction with the skin. Pieces stored for months are the ones that oxidize the most. The best way to care for your silver jewelry is to wear it.
Explore our complete collection of men's silver jewelry — each piece is made to last a lifetime.
Nativos Jewelry — Lifetime Guarantee. Pure 950 and 999 silver.
