How to Store Sterling Silver Jewellery: Prevent Tarnish & Keep It Shining

Why Sterling Silver Tarnishes: The Basics

Before we dive into storage solutions, let's understand what we're protecting against. Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% other metals (usually copper) for strength. It's this copper content that makes sterling silver react with substances in the air.

Tarnish is a natural chemical reaction that happens when silver is exposed to:

• Sulphur compounds in the air
• Humidity and moisture
• Certain chemicals in household products
• Perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics

The good news? Proper storage dramatically slows this process, keeping your sterling silver jewellery looking fresh and bright between wears.

The Five Essentials of Silver Storage

When it comes to storing your precious Ella & Eve pieces, these five principles will keep them in pristine condition:

1. Keep it dry: Moisture accelerates tarnishing, so always ensure your silver is completely dry before storing and keep it in a low-humidity environment.
2. Limit air exposure: Oxygen contributes to tarnishing, so airtight containers or bags are your silver's best friends.
3. Separate your pieces: Prevent scratches and tangles by storing items individually—never in a jumbled pile.
4. Soft surroundings: Line storage containers with soft, non-abrasive materials that won't scratch your silver.
5. Cool, dark location: Heat and direct sunlight can speed up tarnishing, so choose a storage spot away from windows and heat sources.

Following these simple guidelines will dramatically extend the time between cleanings and keep your anklets, earrings, and other silver pieces looking their best.

Best Containers for Storing Sterling Silver

Your Ella & Eve Gift Box

Every Ella & Eve piece comes in our signature gift box, which isn't just for presentation—it's designed for storage too! The lined interior provides the perfect environment to protect your silver between wears.

Other Excellent Storage Options

• Jewellery boxes with anti-tarnish lining: Look for boxes specifically designed for silver with tarnish-resistant fabric lining.
• Ziplock bags: Simple but effective! Squeeze out excess air before sealing. For extra protection, add a small anti-tarnish strip inside.
• Airtight containers: Small plastic containers with secure lids work well, especially when lined with anti-tarnish cloth or paper.
• Dedicated silver chests: For larger collections, consider investing in a wooden chest with individual compartments lined with anti-tarnish material.
• Hanging organisers: Great for necklaces to prevent tangling, but ensure they're made of tarnish-resistant material.

Whatever container you choose, the key is minimising air exposure while providing scratch protection.

Anti-Tarnish Solutions That Actually Work

Take your silver storage to the next level with these proven anti-tarnish additions:

• Anti-tarnish strips or papers: These contain activated charcoal or other compounds that absorb tarnish-causing gases. Replace them every 6-12 months for continued protection.
• Silica gel packets: Those little packets that come with new shoes or bags? They absorb moisture and can help keep your silver dry.
• Anti-tarnish cloths: Specially treated fabrics that both clean and protect silver. Wrap individual pieces or line your storage containers.
• Chalk: A surprising household solution! Place a piece of ordinary chalk in your jewellery box to absorb moisture and sulphur compounds.

Avoid using plastic wrap or non-archival tissue paper for storage—these can contain chemicals that actually accelerate tarnishing.

Travelling with Your Sterling Silver

Don't let travel tarnish your beautiful gold necklaces or silver pieces. Here's how to keep them safe on the go:

• Use your Ella & Eve gift bag: The drawstring pouch that comes with your purchase is perfect for travel—it's compact yet protective.
• Individual pouches: Store each piece separately in anti-tarnish pouches or small ziplock bags.
• Travel jewellery cases: Invest in a compact case with separate compartments and anti-tarnish lining.
• Necklace tricks: Thread delicate necklaces through a drinking straw before fastening to prevent tangling, or use pill organizers for smaller items.
• Wear it: Sometimes the safest place for your favourite pieces is on you!

Remember to keep your jewellery in your carry-on luggage rather than checked bags when flying, both for security and to avoid rough handling.

Organising Your Growing Collection

As your Ella & Eve collection grows (especially with our Buy 1, Get 50% OFF your second piece offer!), smart organisation becomes essential:

By Type

Group similar items together—bracelets with bracelets, earrings with earrings. This makes finding what you want easier and allows for appropriate storage methods for each type.

By Material

Keep your gold bracelets separate from silver ones. Different metals can react with each other, potentially causing scratches or accelerating tarnish.

By Frequency of Use

Store everyday pieces in easily accessible containers, while special occasion jewellery can go in more secure, long-term storage.

Smart Storage Solutions

• Earring organisers: Cards with holes or dedicated earring boxes keep pairs together.
• Bracelet bars or rolls: Keep bracelets from getting scratched or bent.
• Necklace hooks: Prevent tangling by hanging necklaces individually.
• Ring slots or holders: Keep rings from scratching each other.
• Drawer dividers: Create custom compartments in larger storage boxes.

Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, these common mistakes can damage your precious silver:

• Storing while damp: Always thoroughly dry your jewellery after cleaning or wearing before storing.
• Bathroom storage: The humidity from showers makes this the worst place for your jewellery box.
• Storing in direct sunlight: UV rays can affect certain gemstones and accelerate tarnishing.
• Using cotton wool: The fibres can catch on delicate settings and chains.
• Storing in paper envelopes: Regular paper contains acids that can accelerate tarnishing.
• Jumbling everything together: This leads to tangles and scratches that can permanently damage your pieces.
• Forgetting to close chains: Always fasten necklace and anklet clasps before storing to prevent tangling.

The biggest mistake? Inconsistency. Even the best storage system only works if you use it every time.

The Connection Between Storage and Cleaning

Proper storage and cleaning work hand in hand to keep your silver looking its best:

Before Storage

Always clean your sterling silver before storing it for any length of time:

1. Wipe pieces with a soft polishing cloth to remove oils, makeup, and residues.
2. For more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and water, then dry completely.
3. Make sure pieces are 100% dry before storing.

After Storage

If you notice tarnish when retrieving your jewellery:

1. Use a silver polishing cloth for light tarnish.
2. For heavier tarnish, a gentle silver cleaner may be needed.
3. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before wearing or returning to storage.

Remember that even with perfect storage, sterling silver will eventually develop some tarnish—it's a natural property of the metal. Regular wear actually helps minimise tarnish, as the natural oils in your skin keep the silver polished.

Expand Your Ella & Eve Collection

Now that you know how to properly care for and store your sterling silver jewellery, why not add to your collection? Every Ella & Eve piece comes with our signature gift box and bag—perfect for both gifting and storage.

Browse our stunning range of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and anklets in both sterling silver and gold options.

Don't miss our current special offer: Buy any piece and get 50% OFF your second item! It's the perfect opportunity to build a coordinated collection or mix and match different styles.

With proper storage and care, your Ella & Eve jewellery will remain beautiful for years to come—a lasting reminder of special moments and your personal style.