How to Care for 925 Silver and Plated Jewellery

Your jewellery holds a little of your story. A few gentle habits can help you look after its finish, stones and settings.

Check the materials first

Sterling silver is an alloy containing 92.5% silver. Plating is a surface layer over a base metal. A piece described as gold-plated 925 silver has a sterling silver base; it is not solid gold. Rhodium-plated silver also has a surface finish. Use the material and care details on the individual product page as your starting point.

After each wear

Wipe gently with a clean, soft, non-abrasive cloth. Let the piece dry before putting it away, and store pieces separately to reduce rubbing and scratches. An anti-tarnish pouch is useful for silver. Keep chains fastened and away from other pieces that may tangle.

A cautious cleaning routine

  1. Inspect for loose stones, damaged plating or a weakened clasp. If you see a problem, stop and ask a jeweller for help.
  2. For a piece whose materials allow it, dampen a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a little mild soap. Wipe gently without scrubbing.
  3. Remove soap residue with a fresh damp cloth and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Some stones, coatings, enamel and glued components need different care. Do not soak a piece when you are unsure of its materials. Ask us about the specific design before trying a cleaner.

Protect plated finishes

Avoid abrasive silver polish, treated polishing cloths, toothpaste and hard brushes on plated areas. Do not use bleach or household cleaners. Ask a professional before using steam or ultrasonic cleaning, especially on delicate stones and surface finishes. Plating can wear with use, and vigorous cleaning may shorten its life.

Before water, perfume or exercise

Remove jewellery before swimming, showering, workouts and cleaning. Apply perfume and lotions first and let them dry before putting jewellery on. Keep jewellery away from pool chemicals and household cleaning products.

When silver darkens

Silver can tarnish over time. Choose a cleaning method that suits both the metal and the stones. For plated silver, ask a jeweller to assess the finish before using a tarnish remover.

Explore our silver bracelets and necklaces, or contact G&Co. by Aisha with your product name for care guidance.

Further reading: GIA jewellery care tips and GIA guidance on ultrasonic cleaners. These are independent educational references.

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