Can Sterling Silver Get Wet? A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Precious Metal
Sterling silver is a precious metal commonly used in jewelry, silverware, and even antique teapots. While it may seem impervious to damage, exposing sterling silver to water requires careful consideration.
What is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is not pure silver but an alloy containing 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent other metals, usually copper or zinc. This composition enhances its durability and makes it more affordable and versatile for intricate designs.
However, despite its advantages, sterling silver is susceptible to tarnishing due to the alloy metals, such as zinc, copper, which undergo chemical reactions more quickly than pure silver.
Can Sterling Silver Get Wet?
The answer is yes, but understanding the type of water matters. Daily activities like hand-washing, showering, or swimming expose sterling silver to different water types, leading to oxidation or corrosion.
Types of Water and Their Impact:
- Salty Water: Whether seawater or saltwater pools, salt is highly corrosive to sterling silver.
- Pool Water: Chlorinated water in pools can severely tarnish sterling silver, especially with warm water.
- Hot Springs: The unknown chemical composition makes it risky to expose sterling silver to hot springs.
In conclusion, while sterling silver can get wet, it's crucial to be aware of the water type and take preventive measures. Regular maintenance and avoiding prolonged exposure to certain water conditions will help preserve the beauty and value of your sterling silver jewelry.
Our silver jewelry are free from any plating on the surface, ensuring they never fade! Even if they tarnish, a quick and easy clean will bring back their shine!
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