Quick tips for storing sterling silver
Sterling silver requires some care to keep it looking beautiful over time. Here are some quick tips for proper storage:
- Store sterling silver in cool, dry places away from heat and humidity.
- Wrap pieces individually in anti-tarnish cloths or acid-free tissue paper.
- Use lined boxes, chests, or drawer organizers to separate pieces.
- Keep sterling out of direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
- Polish and clean sterling before storing long-term.
- Store together with other metals that won’t cause corrosion.
Following these basic guidelines will help keep your sterling silver in pristine condition when storing or displaying it. Read on for more in-depth information on ideal storage methods.
Why is proper storage important for sterling silver?
Sterling silver is a beautiful precious metal prized for its shine and versatility. However, it requires more care than stainless steel or silver-plated items. Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver blended with copper to increase its strength and durability. The high silver content makes it prone to tarnishing when exposed to air and moisture. Sulfides in the air react with the silver ions to create a dark silver sulfide tarnish film. Improper storage that allows air, humidity, heat, and light exposure will cause sterling pieces to tarnish much faster.
Tarnish not only dims the lovely shine of sterling but can enable corrosion if left untreated. Even small amounts of salt, oil, and perspiration from handling can accumulate on sterling and motivate tarnishing. Storing sterling correctly limits its exposure to tarnish-causing elements and helps preserve its beauty and value over time. Taking time to store sterling properly also saves you from frequent polishing and cleaning efforts down the road.
Best storage practices for sterling silver
Follow these professional recommendations to keep your sterling silver heirlooms and collectibles untarnished for years:
Cool & dry storage
Sterling silver is sensitive to heat and humidity. Elevated temperatures accelerate tarnish reactions, as does moisture in the air. Store sterling in a cool, dry place away from hot spots like furnace vents, ovens, dishwashers, and direct sunlight streaming through windows. The ideal temperature range is from 65°F to 72°F with 40% to 50% relative humidity. Use a dehumidifier or silica gel in humid climates. Avoid attics, basements, and garages if they are damp or have frequent temperature fluctuations.
Tarnish-preventive storage materials
Exposure to the sulfur compounds in air causes tarnish, so it’s smart to wrap sterling silver pieces individually in tarnish-preventive materials. Acid-free tissue paper, called silver tissue, is specially designed for archival silver storage. Lint-free anti-tarnish cloths impregnated with silver corrosion inhibitors are also excellent choices. These specialized wrapping materials prevent airborne contaminants from contacting the sterling’s surface. Never use plastic bags or wrap, which can promote tarnish.
Storage in lined boxes
Place wrapped sterling silver pieces in well-lined boxes to provide an additional shield from humidity and air pollutants. Felt, foam, and acid-free liners work well. Chests, jewelry boxes, or compartmentalized silverware boxes are ideal for separating and organizing silver. This prevents the pieces from touching each other and guards against possible scratching. Small pieces can go in acid-free paper envelopes inside the boxes.
Tarnish-proof storage containers
Made specifically for silverware and flatware, these specialized containers have tarnish-inhibiting liners built right in. Some also contain anti-tarnish strips made with silver corrosion inhibitors that actively fight tarnish. The sealable hard cases protect against temperature and humidity fluctuations, light, dust, and other environmental threats to silver’s beauty. They are great for long-term storage or keeping sterling safe while moving or traveling.
Storage with other precious metals
Silver has an affinity to sulfur compounds in the air, but gold and platinum do not readily tarnish. It is safe to store sterling silver in contact with higher-karat gold alloys and platinum jewelry. The other more inert precious metals essentially shield the sterling from air exposure. Do not store sterling silver touching base metals like iron, steel, or copper, which can accelerate corrosion. The exception is sterling itself, which contains some copper.
How should I store everyday silverware?
Silver flatware and serving pieces prone to regular use benefit from some specialized storage protocols to reduce tarnishing between uses. Here are tips for keeping everyday silverware in optimal condition:
Use storage chests
Silverware chests are designed specifically for storing flatware and holloware while protecting it between meals or special events. Standard wood, plastic, or velvet-lined chests work well for silverware. More elaborate styles with anti-tarnish technology provide the ultimate protection. Some have treated liners or inserts that emit silver corrosion inhibitors. Separating pieces into divided compartments limits scuffing and tarnishing while organized neatly by type.
Use anti-tarnish cloth pouches
For added protection, slip silverware into a pouch made of anti-tarnish cloth before placing in a chest compartment. This creates a protective barrier against humidity and air pollutants. The silver pieces don’t touch each other, preventing possible scratches and friction tarnish as well. You can use cloth pouches specifically sized for flatware or wrap pieces individually.
Wash before storage
Always wash silverware thoroughly after use before putting away in storage between meals. Food residue, oils, salt, and acids left on silverware will spur tarnishing. Use mild dish soap and wash by hand or in the dishwasher. Rinse and hand dry completely to remove all traces of moisture before storing. Even water droplets clinging to silver can cause spot corrosion.
Use space bags for infrequent pieces
For special occasion serving pieces not used daily, stow them in air-tight space saver bags with an oxygen absorber pack to remove humidity. This creates a protective sealed environment that prevents tarnishing. It eliminates air and moisture contact completely. Just don’t store silver too long before use, as condensation can form when opening the bag.
How should I store silver jewelry?
Silver jewelry requires specialized storage due to its smaller size and constant proximity to skin. Follow these tips to keep your favorite silver chains, rings, earrings, and more tarnish-free between wearings:
Use anti-tarnish storage pouches
Slip silver jewelry pieces into sealable pouches made of tarnish-preventing fabric. Not only will this limit air and humidity exposure, but it will keep pieces separated to avoid scratches. The pouches can be stored in a jewelry box compartment or hung on hooks. Just be sure to unwrap and wear the silver jewelry periodically to prevent prolonged skin contact and potential tarnishing from perspiration.
Use desiccant packets
Place small desiccant moisture absorber packets in jewelry storage boxes and pouches. These keep the interior humidity low and prevent beads of moisture that can form on silver. You can use either silica gel packets or ones specifically made for silver that contain anti-tarnish properties as well. Just be sure to replace them periodically as they absorb moisture.
Store in document envelopes
For very long-term silver jewelry storage, seal pieces individually in acid-free paper document envelopes. This creates an air-tight barrier and blocks humidity. Place the sealed envelopes in a cool basement, garage, or safety deposit box location for storage spans of a year or more. Just monitor and replace deteriorated paper over time.
Wear jewelry periodically
Don’t store your favorite silver pieces too long without wearing them. The oils and perspiration that silver jewelry contacts next to skin can instigate tarnish, especially in crevices. Every month or two, wear your stored silver jewelry to cleanse it before returning to the proper storage pouches and boxes. This keeps the layers of tarnish from accumulating.
How should I store antique or heirloom silver?
For prized vintage, antique, or heirloom quality sterling silver, take extra precautions to preserve its heritage and value. Follow archival museum-quality methods:
Use acid-free storage materials
Wrap antique and heirloom silver pieces individually in silver-rated acid-free tissue paper – commonly called silver tissue. You can also use acid-free kraft paper or archival quality unbuffered paper. Line storage boxes with pH neutral plastic, unbleached cotton, or acid-free felt. Avoid common paper and plastics that can emit vapors.
Control temperature & humidity
Install climate controls where you store silver heirlooms to maintain ideal cool and dry conditions year-round. Use professional museum-grade humidistats and dehumidifiers that keep relative humidity around 40%. The temperature should not exceed 72°F. Fluctuations in heat and humidity hasten tarnish on heirloom silver’s vulnerable surface.
Keep pieces separate
Avoid direct contact between antique silver pieces by wrapping individually before boxing. Use spacers, compartments, and separators to isolate each item fully. This prevents possible scratching of delicate surfaces and decorative details. Only store together antique items of like metal – avoid contact with base metals or even modern sterling.
Guard against shocks & vibrations
Protect delicate filigree or articulated antique silver pieces against jarring shocks, drops, and vibrations. Cushion the bottom and sides of storage boxes. Place boxes on shelf risers or pads versus directly on hard surfaces. Never stack heavy boxes atop silver storage containers. Avoid areas prone to impacts or movement like shelves near doors or active rooms.
Keep in darkness
Do not expose antique or heirloom silver to light for long periods, including UV and sunlight. Use opaque archival boxes versus clear ones. Store boxes in cabinets, on interior shelves, and away from bright windows. Light can gradually fade or damage fragile silver finishes, enamels, pearls, and stones over time. Keeping silver in darkness protects its antique patina and materials.
How should I store silver-plated objects?
Silver-plated items require some special care, as the silver plating is very thin and the base metal underneath is prone to corrosion:
Avoid humidity & excess heat
Moisture allows corrosion to start on base metals under the plating. Store silver plate in low humidity around 40% RH if possible. Avoid temperature extremes over 75°F. The elevated heat accelerates plating damage. Use dehumidifying devices and climate control to keep conditions stable.
Wrap in anti-tarnish cloths
Silver plating can easily scratch and tarnish when pieces directly contact each other. Individually wrap plates serving pieces and flatware in anti-tarnish cloths before storage. Use a storage chest with divided compartments for organized separation as well.
Clean before storage
Food residue, salts, and acids left on silver plate can damage the finish over time in storage. Always hand wash gently in mild dish soap and rinse well before putting away in a chest or case. Avoid abrasive scrubbing that can wear plating thin.
Store short term
Avoid lengthy storage spans for heavily plated heirlooms. The goal is to limit air exposure that motivates tarnish and finish breakdown. If possible, display plated items you use regularly versus packing away for years unseen. For long-term storage, have plated pieces professionally re-plated first.
Keep dry & use desiccants
Prevent moisture buildup in storage that encourages plating corrosion. Use moisture-absorbing packs in storage containers. Keep plated pieces in dry, temperature-controlled spaces. Rotate and refresh desiccants periodically. Inspect for corrosion and re-wrap in fresh anti-tarnish cloths occasionally.
How should I store silver-plated serving pieces?
Silver-plated serving trays, platters, bowls, and tea sets require extra care to prevent surface damage in storage:
Wrap carefully
Pad and carefully hand-wrap silver-plated holloware pieces individually in soft fabric or acid-free paper. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch delicate surfaces. Use archival paper and unbleached cotton if long-term storage is needed.
Use protective storage containers
Store wrapped silver-plated serving pieces in rigid containers with padding to prevent shifting, abrasion, and friction damage. Line boxes with unbuffered acid-free tissue. Separate pieces in compartments or with dividers.
Keep flat
Store silverplate serving dishes stacked neatly and flat – never at angles. This avoids stressing warped shapes over time. Layer flat pads or spacers between stacked pieces. Wrap buffing cloths around rims and handles to prevent surface damage.
Cushion movement
Prevent motion damage by cushioning silver plate pieces against shocks and vibrations. Use padded shelves, rubber seals on box lids, and place boxes on foam pads not hard surfaces. Avoid drop damage by carrying carefully using both hands.
Clean pieces before storage
Food residue or tarnish on silver plate can mottle and stain finishes left in storage. Gently hand wash and rinse serving pieces before wrapping and storing away. Avoid abrasives that could wear plating thin. Use cotton cloths to prevent spotting and softly buff finishes.
Monitor for tarnish & corrosion
Inspect silver-plated serving pieces periodically while stored. Refresh anti-tarnish wraps and liners to limit air exposure over time. Watch for spots of corrosion peeking through worn plating. Address these immediately to avoid further damage. Limit storage length between uses.
Conclusion
Properly storing your sterling silver, silverplate, and silver jewelry requires paying attention to details like temperature, humidity, air quality, spacing items apart, tarnish-preventive materials, and consistent maintenance. While these measures take more time upfront, they save you effort and preserve silver’s beauty for the long-term. Tarnish builds up faster when silver is improperly stored. With the right storage methods, your silver stays brilliantly lustrous and avoids corrosion or wearing thin over the years. The small extra effort provides big dividends for family heirlooms and silver you use routinely. Follow archival museum guidelines for irreplaceable antiques and vintage silver to preserve it for future generations. With some basic vigilance, your sterling silver and silverplate will last a lifetime and beyond.
