Silver, one of the world’s most useful metals, is also one of the world’s most valuable metals. It can achieve a great polish and does not tarnish in its pure form. Most silver jewelry is silver combined with other metals (alloys). (925%Silver) This makes it more suitable for general jewelry use.

Gemstones are rated on a scale of hardness; the Mohs scale, theindustry standard from1-10. The harder the stone is, the higher the number.
Diamonds are a 10 (ten). Anything less than 6 or 7 (most stones) can scratch easily.

Some tips to remember when caring for our silver jewelry include:

Protect your jewelry from scratches,blows, harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures and sunlight.

* Store jewelry separately so it doesn’t scratch.
* Remove rings and bracelets when cleaning or gardening or working with chemicals.
* Put jewelry on last aftermakeup/hair spray.

* Never wear jewelry while swimming. Chlorine can cause damage to gemstonessilver and gold.
* Check gemstones periodically for loose stones and repair before stones loosen or fall out.

* Avoid storingjewelry in heat or direct sunlight.

Storage:

StoreSterling Silver in a silver keeper or in plastic bags. Stones set in sterling should also be kept in a silver keeper. Plastic bags help prevent oxidation andminimize cleaning (do not use plastic bags with pearls, opals, or amber).

Cleaning:

Use a polishing cloth for silver regularly on all silvercontainingstones. Anti-tarnish strips also can be used and last for six months.

Sterling Silver (without stones) can be cleaned with a commercial jewelry cleaner for silver. Always test the item before you clean and rinse and dry thoroughly. stones can be damaged by these products. Use with care.

TIP: Wear your jewelry especially Sterling Silver as much as possible. This reduces tarnishing.