HOW TO AVOID TARNISH ON YOUR STERLING SILVER JEWELRY

Because sterling silver tarnishes, does not mean it is low quality or not genuine. Tarnish is caused by oxidation - a reaction between materials in the sterling silver to air and the moisture in the air.

So, if you notice any discolouration, take a deep breath. You did not necessarily buy something fake. 

You can take the following steps to prevent and stop tarnish before it starts:

• Do NOT expose your ring to moisture as much as possible.  In other words, do not wash your hands with the rings on, wash dishes, wet your hands, etc.  The chemicals in water can react with agents in the metal, causing oxidation/tarnish.

• Do not allow your ring to come into contact with any soaps or lotions.  Chemicals found in soaps and lotion will speed the tarnish and oxidation processes.

•  Store your silver in a cool dry place.  A jewelry box with anti-tarnish lining is ideal.

• Never wear your sterling silver jewelry in the pool or in the hot tub.  Doing that will ensure you will have tarnish over time.  

• The chemicals in sweat and oils from the skin speed tarnish for some people.  A trick that we have heard is helpful for slowing down the process of tarnish is to coat clear nail polish on the inside of the ring.  A few coats are better than 1 because the polish can wear off easily.  The clear coats of nail polish provide enough protection so that the sweat and oils in the skin do not come into contact with the metal, avoiding the tarnish.

• Use Jewelry Cleaner:   Silver cleaners come in the form of paste or a dip.  They can contain harsh chemicals. We recommend using them only as a last resort. They can strip and damage gemstones.  First, wipe off as much tarnish as you can with a simple polishing cloth.  If you are using a dip, take bowl and put some of the silver polishing dip into the bowl.  Be sure to protect your hands as these chemicals are very harmful.  Take the jewelry and dip it in, but DO NOT LET IT SOAK.  Extended exposure can seriously damage your jewelry.    If you are using a paste, take a soft brush and rub the paste in a straight line.  Avoid using circular motion to avoid scratches.  For either dip or paste, remove the polish solution with a cloth.  Rinse under cold running water.  If you do not thoroughly remove the solution it will dry white.  Buff with a soft cloth to give it shine.

Culled from Ebay Buying Guide