Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver, alloyed for strength. It is meant to be worn, and with a little care it keeps its glow for decades. This guide covers how to clean, store and look after your Motifs silver, and what to do when it tarnishes.
Why silver darkens
Silver reacts with sulphur in the air, perfume, sweat and humidity, forming a dark layer called tarnish. It is a surface change, not damage, and it polishes off. Oxidised Motifs pieces are deliberately darkened in the recesses to bring out the carving; that finish is part of the design and should not be polished away.
Everyday care
- Put jewellery on last, after perfume, hairspray and lotion, and take it off first.
- Remove silver before swimming, bathing, exercising and sleeping.
- After wearing, wipe with the soft cloth that comes in your Motifs pouch.
- Keep pieces apart so chains do not scratch polished surfaces.
Storage
Store each piece in its Motifs cotton pouch or a closed box, away from humidity and sunlight. An anti-tarnish strip or a small silica sachet in the box slows tarnish. Avoid rubber bands and newspaper, both of which speed it up.
Cleaning
- Plain polished silver: a silver polishing cloth is enough. For heavier tarnish, wash in lukewarm water with a drop of mild liquid soap, use a soft toothbrush on crevices, rinse and dry completely.
- Oxidised silver: wipe only; do not use polish, dips or baking-soda methods, which strip the dark finish.
- Stones, pearls, enamel (meenakari) and wood: never soak. Wipe the metal with a damp cloth and keep liquids away from the stone or enamel.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, toothpaste and household chemicals.
Repairs and re-polishing
If a clasp loosens, a stone comes loose or a piece needs professional polishing or re-oxidising, contact our studio. Many pieces can be refreshed in-house. Please do not attempt soldering or plating repairs locally, as this can change the alloy and the finish.
How to tell real 925 silver
Genuine sterling is non-magnetic, has a bright white tone (not grey or yellowish), and tarnishes slowly rather than flaking. Every Motifs piece is made in 925 sterling silver by our artisans; if you ever want a piece tested, our studio will arrange it.
Questions about a specific piece? Write to info@mymotifs.com or message the studio on WhatsApp.
