Are you planning to buy sterling silver but don’t know if sterling silver gets wet? Trust me, you are not the only one struggling to find the answer to this question. In short, the answer is a big yes. However, there is some subjectivity to the result as sterling silver has a different reaction with types of water.
Undoubtedly, sterling silver is the most preferred metal among jewelers because of its exceptional qualities and solid durability. If you want your sterling silver metal to stay in top-notch condition as well as be resilient and beautiful, there are certain factors and circumstances that you need to keep in mind, to maintain the exquisiteness of the metal. In this whole article, we shall be discussing the key reasons, solutions, and precautions to maintain your stunning sterling silver jeweler.
Different Waters And Their Reactions
Sterling silver reacts differently with the different types of liquid. Let’s check:
Hot Spring Water
Enormous reactive chemicals and little sulphur in hot spring water is enemy to your sterling silver. A significant part of sterling silver is coated with sulfuric acid to create beautiful art. Therefore, when sulfuric acid comes in contact with the surface of the water, the oxidation process happens that additionally, damages the colour of sterling silver. Furthermore, the acid temperature is not at all suitable for your metal, so it is better to remove your jewellery before going into hot spring water.
Swimming Pools
Pool water always consists of some chlorine and sometimes in excessively high quantities. The chlorine can result in a tarnish as it is vigorously reactive to the silver metal. If you forget to remove sterling silver jewellery before going into the pool, don’t worry, wash it with pure dry water. This will clean the chlorine and dust particles present on the surface of the metal. While swimming in an ocean, you are suggested to remove your sterling silver because sharks present in the ocean might assume you as a fish and your life will be at very high risk.
Hot Tubs
Hot tubs are one of the worst conditions for your sterling silver as it contains some particles of chlorine chemical with heat. Remove your jewellery as soon as possible, otherwise, the colour of the metal will have some gradual colour changes.
Saltwater
Although salt water is beneficial most of the time, in this case, it is not at all good for sterling silver jewellery. Saltwater is corrosive and contains some residue so cleaning it becomes mandatory for you, to keep its charming beauty alive. In addition, it is recommended to remove your jewellery and by chance you skipped it, clean it with the help of pure water.
What Are The Possible Outcomes When Sterling Silver Gets Wet?
Sterling silver is a precious metal and it can be affected badly by the natural components of the earth such as humidity and moisture. These factors can also cause some blackening on your metal. However, Water is not the sole component that leaves a tarnishing effect on your sterling silver jewellery, the components present in the water are also responsible for leaving a tarnishing effect on metal. Based on the theories of science, the tarnishing of sterling silver happens due to the oxidation reaction. This means the connection between the water and silver can lead to rusting effect, further destroying the pleasing look of the jewellery.
Additionally, metal alloys in sterling silver are one of the biggest contributors to giving a tarnishing effect to your metal. It is recommended to remove your jewellery before going into the water as there is a high possibility that your sterling silver might turn black and perhaps you should definitely avoid it.
How Long Does It Take To Tarnish Sterling Silver?
Well, there is no such time involved in tarnishing sterling silver as in some cases, it might take a lot of time and in some can also take a short duration. This depends on how you take care of sterling silver jewellery and the environmental conditions around you. Swimmers are the top contenders for this common question and the solution to prevent and remove tarnish from sterling silver is mentioned beneath.
How To Prevent Your Sterling Silver From Getting Damaged And Wet?
There are numerous ways that can assist in keeping the sterling silver fresh, unique and exquisite.
Appropriate Storage
To ensure the safety of sterling silver and prevent it from getting wet, you need to keep your metal in a tight container where it’s hard for air to circulate. A zip lock bag can be a great option for you to protect it.
Avoid Taking Your Sterling Silver Into The Bathroom
The excessive humidity in your bathroom can lead sterling silver to corrosion. Besides this, wearing sterling silver while taking a bath can destroy the beauty of the metal and can also result in the blackening of the substance.
Excess Heat
Avoid exposing your sterling silver jewellery to adverse heat as it can result in a tarnish of the metal.
Avoid Usage Of Lotions
Sterling silver does not share good relations with lotions made of chemicals, perfumes and hairsprays. These products can damage your precious jewellery.
Remove It While Swimming
To maintain the stunning look of the jewellery, it is necessary to remove your sterling silver as water includes chlorine particles, which can be very harmful and can fade the colour of your metal.
Wipe With A Cloth
If in case your sterling silver gets wet because of water, clean it with the assistance of a dry towel or cloth or you can also blot it dry.
Follow the Remedial
Sterling silver, an amalgamation of metal alloy, is a sign of beauty. The presence of humidity and moisture in the atmosphere results in the blackening of the surface of the metal. Although, the exposure time for tarnishing is not justified. The whole process depends on your perseverance and environmental conditions. To protect the jewellery from damage, follow the remedial methods suggested above and enhance the beauty of the metal.
