What is Sterling Silver?

Silver is a precious metal and much like gold it is too fine to be made in a 100% form. To make it durable for jewellery, pure silver (999 fineness) is often alloyed with small quantities of copper (7.5%), thus comes sterling silver (92.5% or .925). Copper is added to strengthen the silver and make it durable to be use as a decorative or in fashionable jewellery.

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is 7.5 percent copper, but the most common stains from sterling silver jewellery are black, and occur when the metal tarnishes (darkens due to a reaction with gases in the air).

How to Care for your Sterling Silver

I take pride in my work and set high standards in the craftsmanship of my hand crafted jewellery. As with every product its life span will depend on the care you give it. These are some helpful hints on how to look after your Epiphany pieces.

1. To maintain the original condition of your silver jewellery, polish your pieces regularly using a non-abrasive cleaning cloth.

2. Soap and water will also help keep your silver looking good. Remember do not dry silver off with paper towels or tissues, always use a soft cloth.

3. When you are not wearing your silver jewellerly, store them in a cool, dry place. Zip-lock bag and individual cloth pouches are ideal for this and will help prevent both tarnishing or scratching by other pieces.

4. Please try to avoid immersing your silver jewellery in chlorine, salt water, mineral springs, and suntan lotion. Remember, some household cleaners contain chlorine bleach, these will cause discoloration and also loosen Epiphany pieces that contain pearls.

5. Avoid abrasive cleaners, detergents and commercial jewellery cleaners "dips" especially if the pieces have an oxidized finish or contain pearls. Using harsh polishing cleaners will alter the antique look of your jewellery.

6. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner, ammonia or any chemical solution to clean opaque gemstones, such as turquoise, malachite, onyx, lapis lazuli and opals. They are a porous stone and may absorb chemicals, which build up inside the stone and cause discoloration. Simply wipe them gently with a moist cloth until clean.