If you’ve ever held a piece of oxidised sterling silver jewellery, you’ll know it has a character all its own. That darkened, moody finish gives it an edge. It’s the result of a careful chemical process used to bring out the details in a design, or to darken the entirety of the piece. But like all beautiful things, it needs a bit of TLC to stay looking its best.
As someone who creates oxidised silver jewellery, I’ve heard a fair share of questions about how to care for it. Unlike shiny silver, you don’t want to polish away the finish, but that doesn’t mean you can just leave it to fend for itself. To help you care for your special pieces, here’s a straightforward guide to keeping your oxidised jewellery in top condition.
What Is Oxidised Silver?
First, let’s talk about what oxidised silver actually is. It’s still sterling silver (92.5% silver), but it’s been treated to create a surface layer of silver sulfide, giving it that rich, darkened tone. This is what naturally happens to raw sterling silver over time too, but when it's used as a decorative choice, this process is forced with sulfides rather than oxygen. The term oxidised has simply stuck. The finish is delicate, and while it’s beautiful, it can fade over time with exposure to water, sweat, and general wear. To prolong the oxidised finish, a wax is applied, but this is not a permanent fix either, so what can you do to preserve the look?
How to Care for Oxidised Silver Jewellery
Here are some simple steps you can take to protect that finish:
1. Avoid Over-Cleaning
Unlike polished silver, oxidised pieces don’t need regular scrubbing or chemical cleaners. In fact, those can strip away the oxidation entirely. If your piece looks a bit dull or dusty, a soft, dry cloth is all you need to gently wipe it clean.
2. Store It Properly
Oxidised silver is best kept in a dry, airtight container when you’re not wearing it. A jewellery box or even a resealable bag works well to protect it from humidity, which can affect the finish over time. Bonus: it also prevents scratches from other pieces knocking around!
3. Be Mindful of Water
While sterling silver itself can handle water, the oxidised finish is more delicate. Try to avoid wearing your jewellery in the shower, pool, or whilst washing your hands. If it does get wet, pat it dry with a soft cloth right away.
4. Keep It Away From Chemicals
Perfume, hairspray, and cleaning products can all be harsh on oxidised silver. To avoid accidents, make your jewellery the last thing you put on before heading out the door and the first thing you take off when you get home.
5. Know That Fading Is Natural
Over time, the darkened finish may soften or lighten in areas that get the most contact, like the edges of a pendant or the band of a ring. Rather than seeing this as damage, think of it as a unique patina - your jewellery’s way of telling its own story.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your oxidised piece has lost too much of its finish for your liking, it’s not the end of the world. Many jewellers (myself included) can reapply the oxidation, breathing new life into a well-loved piece.
Shop My Oxidised Jewellery
If you’re in love with the distinctive look of oxidised silver, why not take a look at some of the pieces I’ve crafted?
Why Oxidised Jewellery Is Worth the Effort
Caring for oxidised silver might seem a bit more involved than polished jewellery, but I’d argue that’s part of its charm. Each piece develops its own character over time, and the care you give it only adds to the story it tells. It also is already blackened, so unlike with polished silver jewellery, you don't want to over polish it or try to prevent that natural oxidisation occurring.
If you’ve got an oxidised piece from me or are thinking about adding one to your collection, don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions. I’m always happy to help you keep your jewellery looking as beautiful as the day you fell in love with it.
Your jewellery is more than just an accessory - it’s a reflection of your story. Let it shine in its own unique way.
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