Real jewellery lasts — with a little love. Here's how to keep sterling silver bright, gold vermeil golden, and your moissanite and CZ sparkling, plus the one mistake that quietly ruins vermeil.
Does gold vermeil tarnish?
Slowly, and reversibly. Gold itself doesn't tarnish, but vermeil is gold over a sterling-silver base — so as the gold layer wears thin over years, the silver beneath can begin to oxidise. Good habits slow this dramatically, and a faded gold layer can be re-plated.
Why sterling silver tarnishes
Silver reacts with moisture and sulphur in the air and on your skin, forming a dark layer on the surface. It's completely normal, harmless, and reversible — not a sign of fake or low-quality silver. In fact, it's proof your jewellery is real silver.
How to clean sterling silver
- For light tarnish: buff gently with a silver-polishing cloth.
- For a deeper clean: lukewarm water, a drop of mild dish soap, a soft cloth or soft toothbrush — then dry thoroughly.
- Avoid toothpaste, baking soda, and abrasive scrubs. Despite the internet's advice, they scratch the surface.
- Wear it often — the gentle friction of wear actually keeps silver bright.
How to clean gold vermeil (without stripping the gold)
This is the part most people get wrong. For vermeil, use only a soft cloth and, if needed, lukewarm water with a tiny drop of mild soap — then pat dry. Never use a silver-polishing cloth or silver dip on vermeil. They're abrasive and chemical, and they'll strip the thin gold layer right off. Those are for solid silver only.
The golden rules
- Last on, first off — after skincare, perfume and hair products; off before bed.
- Keep it dry — remove before showering, swimming and the gym.
- Store smart — dry, separate, in a pouch or box; an anti-tarnish strip helps.
Caring for moissanite & CZ
The easy bit: warm water, a drop of mild soap, a soft brush to lift the everyday film of lotion and dust — rinse and pat dry. The sparkle returns instantly, every time. Neither stone clouds or fades.
Shop Best Sellers Full Care Guide
FAQ
Does gold vermeil tarnish?
Slowly and reversibly. The gold doesn't tarnish, but the silver base can oxidise once the gold wears thin. Good care slows this, and vermeil can be re-plated.
How do I clean sterling silver at home?
Use a silver-polishing cloth for light tarnish, or lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap and a soft cloth for a deeper clean. Avoid toothpaste and abrasives.
Can I use a silver cloth on gold vermeil?
No. Silver cloths and dips are abrasive and chemical and will strip the gold layer. Use only a soft cloth and mild soapy water on vermeil.
How should I store my jewellery?
Keep it dry, store pieces separately so they don't scratch, and use an airtight pouch or box. An anti-tarnish strip helps keep silver bright.
