Jewelry Care Guide

Caring for S925 sterling silver and 18K gold-plated (PVD) pieces takes slightly different approaches. Sterling silver is a reactive precious metal that tarnishes naturally over time, while PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) gold coating is a vacuum-bonded, ultra-durable thin film that resists tarnish well but can still be damaged by harsh treatment.

S925 Sterling Silver Care

S925 silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper), which causes it to naturally oxidize and tarnish when exposed to air, moisture, and body oils. This is a normal property of silver, not a defect.

  • Put it on last. Apply perfume, lotion, hairspray, and makeup before putting on your silver jewelry — chemicals in cosmetics speed up tarnishing.
  • Avoid water and sweat. Remove silver jewelry before showering, swimming, or working out.
  • Wipe after wearing. Gently buff with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth (or a silver-polishing cloth) after each wear to remove skin oils.
  • Cleaning: For a light clean, use warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush, then rinse well and dry immediately. For heavier tarnish, use a dedicated silver-polishing cloth — avoid abrasive toothpaste or harsh chemical dips.
  • Storage: Store each piece separately in an airtight bag or an anti-tarnish jewelry box, ideally with a small silica gel packet to absorb moisture.

18K Gold-Plated (PVD) Care

PVD gold coating is more durable than standard electroplating because the gold layer is vapor-bonded at a molecular level. It still benefits from gentle handling.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals. Keep PVD pieces away from strong cleaners, alcohol-based products, chlorine, and perfume — apply skincare and fragrance before putting on your jewelry.
  • Water exposure: PVD coating is water-resistant and more durable than traditional plating, but prolonged exposure to salt water, pool chemicals, or heavy sweat can dull its shine over time. Rinse with fresh water and dry if exposed.
  • Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, damp microfiber cloth, or use lukewarm water with a little mild soap and a soft-bristled brush, then rinse and pat dry.
  • What to avoid: Never use silver-polishing cloths, abrasive polishes, chemical dips, or ultrasonic cleaners — these can scratch or degrade the PVD surface.
  • Storage: Store pieces individually in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box to prevent scratching.

Our Color Warranty

Our 1 year color warranty covers the 18K gold-plated finish on our pieces: if the plating visibly fades within 1 year of purchase, we'll replace it. Because sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time, solid/polished S925 silver finishes are not covered by the color warranty — regular care, as above, will keep it looking its best.