Sterling silver is an alloy, in simple terms, a combination of metals. The sterling silver alloy contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Ever notice 925 marked on our silver jewelry? That means it's sterling silver.

Pure silver with no additions is very soft and malleable, not always suitable for jewelry designs. The added copper in .925 silver works wonders for this alloy, making it strong and durable for jewelry. Sterling silver's quality and durability make it a favorite among jewelry lovers worldwide.

To first clear up some possible confusion, gold-filled jewelry is not "filled" with gold. Although similar to gold-plated jewelry, the benefits of gold-filled jewelry surpass gold-plated in durability, quality, and longevity.

Gold-filled jewelry contains a base layer of metal with a thick layer of mechanically bonded gold alloy to the surface. So how is gold-plated jewelry different? The production of both gold-filled and plated along with the percentage of gold alloy used creates two significantly different products.

Gold plating uses a very thin surface layer of gold on a base metal. For better understanding, gold-filled products contain 100% more gold than plated jewelry. The higher percentage of gold contributes to gold-filled jewelry's excellent tarnish resistance and durability.

Most jewelry has the capability of tarnishing. If jewelry does tarnish, it depends on how it's cared for and environmental factors. When it comes to tarnish, prevention is key.

Is tarnishing normal? Yes, you can say so. Since jewelry is rarely made from entirely pure silver or gold, tarnishing is possible due to the added metals in the silver or gold alloy. Pure gold and silver do not tarnish.

An example is the sterling silver alloy. Copper is a necessary additive to strengthen silver in jewelry making but may react with impurities in the atmosphere, chemicals, and even certain skin pH, eventually causing tarnish.

Here are a few factors that contribute to tarnish:

• Household chemicals
• Certain skin pH
• Heat, sun, and humidity
• Water exposure
• Certain cosmetics and perfumes
• Air pollution

Tarnishing is reversible and preventable. Please read below on how to properly care for your jewelry.

Here's a jewelry care tip you probably didn't' know: last on and first off. You're likely using makeup, perfume, and lotions to prepare yourself for the day. Since these products can contribute to tarnish, it's best to limit exposure to them by following this rule. Additionally, gently wiping your jewelry at the end of the day is best to remove any products, dirt, and moisture.

Here are a few tips to keep your jewelry shiny and scratch-free with no sign of tarnish…

Proper storage is key to keeping your jewelry safe and protected. Here are a few notes:

• A sturdy, preferably hard-case jewelry box prevents anything from crushing delicate pieces.
• Keep jewelry separated to prevent scratching.
• Ensure your jewelry is dry and clean before inserting it into storage.
• Keep chains organized to prevent tangles.
• Don't store tarnished jewelry with clean jewelry.

Limiting exposure to certain elements throughout the day will prevent physical damage and significantly reduce the possibility of tarnish. Make sure to limit exposure to these:

• Household cleaning chemicals
• Tap water, pool water, salt water
• Sun and heart
• Certain cosmetics, perfumes, and deodorants

Day-to-day activities may add unexpected exposure and damage to your jewelry. Try to avoid these tasks when wearing jewelry:

• Swimming or showering
• Cleaning, cooking, and gardening
• Sports and exercise