Alright, let's talk sterling silver, the backbone of every man’s jewellery collection. If your rotation doesn't include at least one piece, you might want to consider grabbing a couple options. 

When taken care of properly, no other type of men’s jewellery gives you more 'bang for your buck' than 925 sterling silver. It isn't just jewellery; it's an investment that will last a lifetime. If you're after timeless pieces for any occasion, sterling silver should undoubtedly secure that top spot on your list.

How to Care for Sterling Silver Jewellery

One of the most common questions when it comes to Sterling Silver is, "Does 925 Sterling Silver jewellery tarnish?" The short answer is yes, it does. But it’s meant to.

Sterling Silver develops a natural patina over time. It’s not a flaw, it’s part of its charm. That lived-in look adds character and tells a story that’s personal to you. In this article, we’ll break down why tarnishing happens, why it’s nothing to stress about, and share a few tips to keep your silver looking fresh for longer. Tap any of the below to skip ahead to the parts you’re most curious about:

• What is 925 Sterling Silver?
• Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?
• Why Tarnishing Isn't a Bad Thing
• 3 Easy Ways to Prevent Tarnishing
• How to Remove Tarnish from Sterling Silver
• Final Thoughts

What is 925 Sterling Silver?

Let’s keep this simple. Pure silver (99.9%) might sound great, but it’s far too soft for everyday jewellery. It scratches easily, dents quickly, and just isn’t built to last. And with the high price tag that comes with it, it’s not exactly the most practical choice for daily wear. 

That’s where Sterling Silver comes in… 

Sterling Silver is made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other, stronger metals — which is where the '925' hallmark comes from. That small mix makes a big difference. It strengthens the silver, turning it into an alloy that’s much more durable, without compromising on the look or feel of the jewellery. 

So, you get the premium finish and timeless appeal of silver, without the worry of damage or the steep cost of pure metal. It’s everything you want, minus the stress.

Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Tarnishing doesn’t mean your jewellery is low quality. In fact, it means the opposite. That 7.5% alloy mix (especially the copper) reacts to moisture and air over time, causing the metal to darken or dull. Other day to day things like sweat, humidity, and chlorine will speed up this process too.

So yes, 925 Sterling Silver does tarnish. But that’s just the metal doing what it naturally does. It’s just part of how real silver ages, and depending on your style, you can either polish it away or fully embrace it. Let us explain… 

Why Tarnishing Isn't a Bad Thing

Instead of seeing tarnish as a flaw, try looking at it differently. It’s part of what makes Sterling Silver feel real. The worn in look isn’t damage, it’s character. It shows that your jewellery has been lived in, not left untouched. As you wear it, Sterling Silver naturally picks up patinas and subtle textures that make it uniquely yours. It becomes more than just an accessory. It becomes part of your story.

But, if you prefer to keep it looking polished, that’s easy too. Preventing tarnish takes just a few minutes with the right cloth and a bit of care.

3 Easy Ways to Prevent Tarnishing

Keeping your Sterling Silver looking fresh is easier than you think. Here’s how to make sure it stays in top shape:

1. Wipe it down after wearing

The natural oils on your skin can speed up tarnishing, so a quick wipe with a soft cloth after wearing helps slow it down.

2. Keep it dry (mostly)

Wearing your jewellery in the shower is fine, just make sure to dry it properly afterwards. Pools are a different story as chlorine can speed up oxidation. If you know you’ll be in the water a lot, consider swapping to a 316L Stainless Steel piece instead

3. Store it right

Air exposure is one of the biggest causes of tarnishing. When you're not wearing your silver, keep it stashed in a sealed pouch or box. Every CRAFTD 925 piece comes with a leather pouch, polishing cloth, and box, so you’re already set.

How to Remove Tarnish from Sterling Silver

Noticed a few tarnish spots on your Sterling Silver? No stress, it’s easy to bring it back to life. Here’s how to clean it based on how much tarnish you’re dealing with:

For light tarnish:

• Use a silver polishing cloth (anti-tarnish treated)

• Gently rub the surface but don’t overdo it

For heavier tarnish:

• Mix a paste of baking soda and water

• Use a soft toothbrush to scrub gently

• Rinse and dry with a soft cloth

For deep tarnish:

• Use a commercial silver cleaner or dip

• Follow the instructions carefully.

Final Thoughts

925 Sterling Silver deserves a spot in every man’s collection. It’s classic, versatile, and CRAFTD to last when looked after properly. Unlike other materials, it only gets better with time. And remember that slightly aged look you're worried about? It’s actually part of the charm. A finish that feels personal and real that you don’t get with other precious metals.

Some guys keep it polished. Others let it wear in. Either way, Sterling Silver will be a staple in your collection for a lifetime. If you're ready to find your signature piece, explore the 925 Collection here. And if you want to learn more about care, styling, or choosing the right fit, check out the articles we’ve linked below.

• Why every man should own a Sterling Silver Cuban Chain
• Sterling Silver VS Stainless Steel: Which is better?