Every piece of vintage silver has spent years in the air, on skin and in drawers. Its surface tells that story: a soft grey sheen, darker lines in the engraving, a bright shine where it was worn the most. Here is how to look after it without polishing the history away.
Why silver darkens
Silver reacts with sulphur compounds in the air, in some foods, in rubber and in certain fabrics. A thin dark layer forms on the surface. This is not dirt and not damage. Silver alloys with a lower silver content, such as 835 or 800, contain more copper and can darken a little faster than 925 sterling silver.
Patina: keep it or remove it?
On many vintage pieces, the dark tone in engravings and recesses is part of the design. It gives depth to patterns and makes details readable. On smooth, raised surfaces most people prefer a clean shine. A good rule: polish the high points, leave the hollows.
Gentle cleaning
- Use a silver polishing cloth (one comes with every Nagori order). Rub lightly in straight lines, not circles.
- For pieces without stones: a little mild soap in lukewarm water, a soft brush, then rinse and dry completely with a soft cloth.
- Avoid toothpaste, baking soda and abrasive pastes. They leave fine scratches.
- Use silver dips only on plain silver and only briefly. They also remove the patina in engravings.
Pieces with stones
Turquoise, lapis lazuli, onyx and other natural stones need extra care. Turquoise and lapis are porous and can change colour when they absorb water, soap or oils. Clean the silver around the stone with a dry polishing cloth only and never soak these pieces.
Wearing and storing
- Silver that is worn often stays brighter. Skin contact polishes it naturally.
- Put jewellery on last: after perfume, lotion and hairspray.
- Take it off for swimming, cleaning and sports.
- Store each piece separately in a small airtight bag or a closed box, ideally with an anti-tarnish strip.
Genuine silver does not lose its value with age. With a little care, its shine always comes back, and its story continues with you.