The Ultimate Care Guide for Oxidized Silver Jewellery

Oxidised silver jewellery is prized for its unique, aged appearance, which features a dark, antique-like finish that makes intricate details stand out. This distinctive look gives pieces a fashionable bohemian or edgy vibe. Proper care is essential to maintain this special finish.

Understanding Oxidised Silver

At its core, oxidised silver is sterling silver (composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, like copper). However, it undergoes a controlled chemical treatment to intentionally accelerate the tarnishing process. Jewelers typically use a sulfur-based solution, such as liver of sulfur, which reacts with the silver to create a dark layer of silver sulphide. This process, also known as "antiquing" or "blackening," creates a deliberate and uniform dark finish that highlights the piece's design, unlike the uneven tarnish that naturally occurs over time. The goal of caring for this type of jewellery is to preserve the contrast between the dark, recessed areas and the polished, raised surfaces.

How to Care for Oxidised Silver

Caring for oxidised silver is fundamentally different from caring for polished silver. Using methods for shiny silver can strip away the intended dark finish and ruin the design.

Gentle Cleaning Techniques

The primary goal is to clean away dirt and oils without removing the oxidised layer.

• The Best Method: The safest way to clean your jewellery is with mild soap and warm water. Create a solution with a few drops of gentle, phosphate-free liquid soap.

• Washing: Submerge the jewellery for a few minutes. For detailed areas, use a very soft-bristled brush (like a clean, old toothbrush without toothpaste residue) or a cotton swab to gently clean only the raised, shiny sections. Avoid scrubbing the darkened parts.

• Rinsing: Rinse the piece thoroughly under cool running water to remove all soap residue, which can cause dullness if left behind.

• Drying: Pat the jewellery dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensure it is completely dry before storing it, as moisture can cause water spots and encourage natural tarnishing.

  
  

What to Avoid

Aggressive cleaning will damage the finish. Steer clear of:

• Abrasive Polishing Cloths: While great for standard silver, these can remove the dark coating on oxidised pieces. If used, they should only be applied lightly to the highest, shiniest points.

• Abrasive Pastes: Do not use homemade cleaners like toothpaste or baking soda paste, as they are too harsh and will scratch off the dark finish.

• Chemical Dips: Commercial silver dips are too aggressive and will completely strip away the intended oxidation.

  
  

Proper Storage

To protect the unique finish, proper storage is crucial.

• Airtight is Key: Store each piece of oxidised jewellery separately in a small, airtight plastic bag, like a zip-lock. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to minimize exposure to moisture and airborne chemicals.

• Use Anti-Tarnish Strips: For extra protection, place an anti-tarnish strip in the bag to absorb any remaining sulphur compounds.

• Avoid Humidity: Keep your jewellery in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in humid environments like bathrooms or kitchens, which can accelerate unwanted tarnishing.

By following these gentle cleaning and smart storage practices, you can protect the beautiful contrast and bold character of your oxidised silver jewellery for years to come.