Does Sterling Silver Jewelry Tarnish?

Sterling silver is a durable, high-quality metal, but yes, it can tarnish over time. This darkening is simply a natural reaction between the silver in the alloy and everyday elements like oxygen, humidity, and trace sulfur in the air. How quickly it develops depends largely on how you wear and care for your pieces.

If you want to understand the science behind how sterling silver behaves, you can take a deeper dive into our sterling silver guide.

2MM THE CLASSIC TENNIS BRACELET

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Sparkling Diamond Tennis Bracelet with Adjustable Slider Closure

ADJUSTABLE TENNIS BRACELET

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BUBBLE TENNIS BRACELET which is classic Tennis Bracelet featuring a row of 3mm Moissanite round diamonds set in a silver band

3mm Round Bezel TENNIS BRACELET

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Does sterling silver tarnish?

Sterling silver will darken over time, but this isn’t a flaw in the metal. It’s simply a surface reaction that can be slowed dramatically with proper care. Regular wear, gentle cleaning, and smart storage can keep your pieces bright for years.

If you're deciding whether sterling silver fits your lifestyle, check our full breakdown of the pros and cons of sterling silver jewelry.

How to maintain sterling silver without tarnish?

Sterling silver is a timeless, versatile metal that rewards the care you put into it. With the right storage, gentle cleaning, and mindful wear, your pieces can retain their natural radiance for decades.

1. Store it properly

Keep sterling silver in airtight containers, closed pouches, or anti-tarnish bags. Reducing exposure to moisture and air slows down the tarnish process significantly.

2. Wear your jewelry often

Your skin’s natural oils actually help maintain the metal’s shine. Daily wear can keep pieces looking polished longer.

3. Avoid exposure to chemicals

Perfume, lotions, cleaning products, chlorine, and even some cosmetics can accelerate tarnish. Apply personal products first, then put on your jewelry.

4. Keep it dry

Remove your sterling silver before showering, swimming, or working out, since water, humidity, and sweat speed up tarnish formation.

5. Use anti-tarnish strips or cloths

Place them inside your storage cases. They absorb moisture and reactive particles, so your jewelry stays bright longer.

6. Clean it regularly

Even light maintenance helps. Use mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth, or follow the full routine in how to clean sterling silver jewelry for best results.

7. Choose rhodium-plated sterling silver

A thin layer of rhodium adds extra protection and keeps your jewelry bright for longer. It’s especially useful for people who live in humid climates or wear their pieces daily.

You can also see how it stacks up against other popular materials in 925 silver vs rhodium plated jewelry and sterling silver vs. stainless steel jewelry.

At Artizan Jewelry, we celebrate materials that age with beauty and intention, so whether you’re growing your collection or caring for a beloved staple, you can trust sterling silver to stay bright, meaningful, and effortlessly elegant in your everyday style.