Yes. If a ring you love looks a little darker than it did when you first put it on, nothing has gone wrong. Sterling silver changes over time. A thin layer of tarnish forms on its surface when it meets sulphur-containing compounds in the air.
Usually, a little care is all it needs.
Why does it happen?
Sterling silver is 92.5% silver, mixed with other metals to help it hold its shape. Depending on how you wear and store it, the surface may gradually turn yellow, grey or dark brown.
Moisture, perfume and lotion can speed things up. So can leaving a piece in a drawer for months. The silver underneath is still silver.
Does wearing it help?
Often, yes. The gentle contact of everyday wear can help keep smooth parts of a piece bright. The rings you reach for all the time may need less attention than the one you’ve been saving for an occasion.
On textured silver, you might notice the raised parts staying bright while the little grooves grow darker. Some people like that contrast. If you don’t, you can clean it.
How to clean it
- Use your silver polishing cloth. We include one with every Gemina order. When your silver looks a little dull, take it out and give the piece a gentle wipe.
- See our toothpaste cleaning demo. For plain, unplated sterling silver, watch how we do it on Instagram. Toothpaste can scratch delicate finishes, so don’t use this method on plated pieces or jewelry with pearls.
Follow @wear.gemina for more simple jewelry care tips.
Keep it dry when you put it away
After wearing your jewelry, a quick wipe with a soft cloth helps remove moisture and lotion. Store each piece somewhere dry, ideally in its own pouch or bag so it won’t rub against other pieces.
And take it off before swimming or getting into a hot tub. A few small habits make caring for silver much easier.
Once a year, we do it for you
Every Gemina piece comes with lifetime care. Once a year, you can send yours back for cleaning and care. You pay to ship it to us; we pay to ship it back. You can read the full details on our Promise page.
So yes, sterling silver tarnishes. It’s a normal part of owning it, and one you can take care of.
A few quick questions
Is tarnish permanent?
Usually not. Surface tarnish on plain sterling silver can often be removed with gentle cleaning. If you’re unsure about your piece’s material or finish, ask us before polishing it.
Can I shower in sterling silver?
We recommend taking it off. Soap and shampoo can leave residue, and it’s easy to miss moisture in a clasp or textured detail.
Why did my ring leave a dark mark on my finger?
Moisture, lotion and your skin’s chemistry can all play a part. Clean and dry the ring and your finger, then see whether it happens again. If there’s itching or irritation too, stop wearing it and get advice.