Key West Sterling Silver Jewelry is made with high-quality sterling silver.
Sterling silver is a precious metal and may require cleaning from time to time.
With proper care, your silver will retain its beauty and character for many generations to come.
Daily Care
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Sterling silver tarnishes, especially when exposed to salt air and products containing sulfur (such as rubber bands and some papers). However, silver that is regularly used typically needs less care. When you wear your silver, wipe your jewelry with a 100% cotton cloth after wearing to remove oils and residue.
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Store your pieces in a clean, dry place away from moisture and humidity. If you live in a humid environment, consider purchasing some packs of desiccant crystals for your storage area or keep your jewelry enclosed in a tight, airtight plastic bag placed in a closed box or flannel roll. This will protect your jewelry from abrasion and tarnishing.
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Silver Polishing Cloths: You can use a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish and dullness, keeping your sterling silver beautiful.
Note: Chlorine and bleach accelerate tarnishing and should be avoided. Do not use harsh liquid cleaners.
Sterling silver tarnishes when exposed to salty air, chlorine, sulfur, humidity, perspiration, cosmetics, hairsprays, hand sanitizers, make-up, household bleach, and other strong chemicals.
To prevent tarnish as much as possible, store your fine jewelry in a safe, dry place when engaging in the following activities:
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Take off your jewelry when doing household chores.
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Remove your jewelry when showering or swimming in chlorinated pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the ocean.
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Put your silver jewelry on last, after completing your hair and makeup, to prevent chemicals from being sprayed on the jewelry.
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Avoid spraying lotions or perfumes directly on your jewelry.
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Remove your jewelry when you go to the gym or play sports to prevent scratching or tarnishing from perspiration.
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Remove your jewelry when preparing meals to reduce contact with acidic foods like lemons or limes.
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Keep silver dry when storing.
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If your silver is used frequently, keep it away from excessive exposure to air and store it in a tarnish-proof cloth (such as the flannel pouch provided with your purchase) or a silver storage box.
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Good storage boxes are lined with tarnish-proof fabric and have separate spaces for each piece.
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If your climate is humid, place a small packet of desiccant crystals inside your storage area (box or flannel roll).
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Avoid contact with rubber bands or other rubber products, as sulfur in rubber causes tarnishing and corrosion.
Oxidized silver is deliberately tarnished to create a darkened, antique appearance.
Due to its nature, avoid excessive use of silver polish cloths as this will strip the oxidized finish.
Only clean oxidized silver when necessary.
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Many gemstones require delicate care and will become dull if worn in the ocean, pool, or shower. Example: Pearls will become dull over time if they get wet.
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Avoid liquid jewelry cleaners. These can remove luster and damage real gemstones—especially pearls.
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Do not pick up your jewelry by the gemstone. Oils from your hands can smudge or damage the stones.
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Remember to put your jewelry on last and take it off first to avoid exposure to chemicals or snagging on clothing.
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Our jewelry is made with sterling silver, and the gold overlay is applied in thicknesses ranging from 0.05 to 2.5 microns, depending on the piece.
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Product descriptions specify the exact thickness.
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Each piece is protected with an anti-tarnish coating; however, it may wear off over time with improper care or excessive wear.