Caring For Your Silver: A Silversmith’s Advice

Silver is more than a metal—it is a symbol of tradition, elegance, and craftsmanship. Whether it is a decorative vase, a wedding gift, a mandir, or jewellery, silver adds beauty and meaning to your home and life. But like all precious metals, silver requires care to maintain its shine, texture, and value.

For centuries, silversmiths have passed down techniques not just to create silver, but also to care for it. In this guide, we share practical, simple, and easy-to-follow advice straight from artisans, so your silver treasures can shine beautifully for generations.

Why Proper Silver Care Matters

Silver is durable, but it is also delicate in some ways. Over time, exposure to air, moisture, and certain chemicals can cause tarnish, a thin layer that dulls its shine. If left untreated, tarnish can make even the most beautiful pieces look worn and aged.

Taking care of your silver not only preserves its appearance but also its heritage value. Handcrafted silver, in particular, carries the skill, tradition, and effort of the artisans who made it. Proper care ensures that this artistry remains vibrant, allowing each piece to be passed down as a family treasure.

Understanding Your Silver

Before caring for silver, it is important to understand what you have. Most handcrafted silver items are made of 925 sterling silver, which means they are 92.5% pure silver mixed with a small amount of other metals for durability.

• Sterling Silver (925): Durable, high-quality, and ideal for both decorative and functional items.
• Pure Silver (999): Softer and more delicate; usually used in coins, bars, or special keepsakes.
• Silver-plated Items: Coated with a thin layer of silver over another metal; these require extra gentle care as the silver layer can wear off.

Knowing your silver type helps you choose the right cleaning and storage methods.

Everyday Care Tips for Silver

Caring for silver doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can keep your pieces shining for years.

1. Wipe Regularly

   Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe silver pieces after use. This removes fingerprints, dust, and oils from your hands, which can contribute to tarnishing. Micro fiber or cotton cloths are ideal because they do not scratch the surface.

2. Avoid Moisture

   Moisture is silver’s enemy. Keep silver items away from damp areas and always dry them thoroughly after cleaning or washing. Avoid leaving silver near sinks, open windows, or humid spaces.

3. Keep Away from Chemicals

   Perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and household cleaning agents can damage silver. When handling silver jewellry or décor, make sure your hands are clean and free from chemicals.

4. Limit Exposure to Air

   When silver is left exposed to air for long periods, it naturally reacts with sulfur in the environment, forming tarnish. Consider storing unused silver in airtight containers or anti-tarnish cloth bags.

Deep Cleaning Your Silver

Even with regular care, silver may need occasional deep cleaning. Here are simple, safe methods:

1. Soap and Water
   • Mix a small amount of mild liquid soap with warm water.
   • Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean the silver.
   • Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

   This method works well for lightly tarnished items and daily maintenance.

2. Baking Soda Paste
   • Mix three parts baking soda with one part water to create a paste.
   • Apply gently to tarnished areas using a soft cloth.
   • Rinse and dry thoroughly.

   This is ideal for more stubborn tarnish but should be done carefully to avoid scratching intricate designs.

3. Silver Polishing Cloths

   Specially treated silver polishing cloths are a convenient and safe way to restore shine. Gently rub the silver in circular motions to bring back its natural glow.

4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

   Never use bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners on silver. These can damage the metal and ruin intricate handwork.

Storing Your Silver Properly

Proper storage is essential for keeping silver in pristine condition.

• Soft Cloth or Velvet Bags: Wrap each item individually to prevent scratches.
• Anti-Tarnish Paper or Pouches: Reduces exposure to air and slows tarnish.
• Separate Compartments: Store silver jewellry separately to avoid scratching other pieces.
• Avoid Plastic Wrap: Some plastics can trap moisture or release chemicals that harm silver.

Handling Statement Pieces

Large decorative pieces, like silver vases, bowls, trays, or mandirs, require special attention:

• Lift, Don’t Drag: Always lift large pieces to move them, avoiding scratches or dents.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not place heavy items on silver trays or bowls.
• Regular Dusting: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dust from intricate engravings.
• Seasonal Polishing: For decorative pieces displayed year-round, polishing every few months maintains shine without over-cleaning.

Silver Jewellery Care Tips

Silver jewellry, though smaller, needs careful handling as well:

• Wear Daily with Care: Silver jewellry can tarnish less if worn regularly because the oils in your skin help maintain shine.
• Remove Before Sleeping or Bathing: This prevents exposure to sweat, moisture, and chemicals.
• Avoid Contact with Makeup or Perfume: Apply these before putting on jewellry.
• Storage Matters: Store each piece separately in soft pouches or boxes to prevent scratches.

Special Care for Antique or Handcrafted Silver

Handcrafted and antique silver pieces are often delicate and have unique designs. To preserve their artistry:

• Minimal Polishing: Avoid over-polishing, which can wear down intricate designs.
• Professional Cleaning: For heavily tarnished or antique pieces, consider professional cleaning.
• Gentle Handling: Handle with care, especially pieces with engravings or filigree.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with good intentions, some mistakes can damage silver:

• Using Abrasive Cloths or Pads: These can scratch the surface and ruin the finish.
• Leaving Silver in Damp or Humid Places: Moisture accelerates tarnishing.
• Using Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, ammonia, or strong detergents can irreversibly damage silver.
• Stacking Silver Items Together: This causes scratches and dents on delicate surfaces.

By avoiding these mistakes, you ensure that silver remains beautiful and retains its value over time.

Why Caring for Silver is Worth It

Investing in silver means investing in timeless beauty. Proper care ensures that your silver continues to bring joy, elegance, and meaning to your home. A well-maintained silver vase, tray, or jewelry piece is not just a decoration—it is a memory, a legacy, and a connection to craftsmanship that spans generations.

At Akshaat Silver Crafts, we believe every piece of silver deserves care. Our artisans put love and skill into each creation, and proper maintenance ensures that their artistry shines through every day in your home.

Silver is more than just a metal—it is a symbol of culture, tradition, and artistry. Caring for your silver is simple when you follow these easy steps: wipe regularly, avoid moisture and chemicals, clean gently, and store properly. Whether it is a decorative vase, jewellery, tableware, or a sacred mandir, taking care of silver ensures it remains beautiful for generations.

With the right care, your handcrafted silver pieces will continue to shine, bringing elegance, heritage, and warmth to your home for years to come.