Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Introduction

925 sterling silver is one of the most loved metals in modern jewelry — elegant, affordable, and timeless. But a common question from jewelry lovers is: “Does 925 silver tarnish?” The short answer is yes, it can, but with proper care, it can remain bright for many years.
 

If you’re curious about how to protect your silver or choose quality pieces, dlbjewelry (www.dlbhk.com) offers design inspiration and maintenance tips for long-lasting beauty.

What Does “925 Sterling Silver” Mean? 

“925” refers to the purity level of silver — it means the piece is made of 92.5% pure silver and

7.5% other metals (usually copper) for strength and durability.
 

Pure silver is too soft for daily wear, so the alloy ensures jewelry keeps its shape while maintaining a brilliant finish.
 

Why Does 925 Silver Tarnish?

Tarnish is a natural reaction between silver and sulfur compounds in the air.

Over time, the metal’s surface darkens — forming silver sulfide.
Common causes include:

· Humidity and sweat (moisture speeds up tarnishing)

· Exposure to perfume, lotion, or cosmetics

· Contact with sulfur-rich foods (like eggs or onions)

· Long-term storage without proper sealing

How to Prevent Tarnish

Here are some easy ways to keep your 925 sterling silver shining:
· Wear it often – natural skin oils can protect silver.
· Keep it dry – remove before showering or swimming.
· Store properly – use anti-tarnish pouches or airtight bags.
· Polish gently – use a silver cloth to restore shine.
For extra protection, some jewelers (like dlbjewelry) use anti-tarnish coatings to extend brightness while

keeping the metal’s natural luster.

Can Tarnish Be Removed?

Yes! Tarnish is only on the surface, so it can be easily removed. Use:

· Use a soft polishing cloth or silver cleaner.

· Try a mild soap-water rinse for daily cleaning. 

· Visit a jeweler for deep cleaning.

· After cleaning, always dry the piece completely before storing.

Final Thoughts

Yes, 925 sterling silver can tarnish, but with simple care habits, it will stay stunning for years. It’s one of the few metals that actually gets more character with age. If you love timeless, simple silver jewelry, explore dlbjewelry at www.dlbhk.com for quiet inspiration and classic 925 designs.