Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals. It is used because sterling is harder and more durable than fine silver, making sure your jewelry will last for years to come. The other metals in sterling, however, can cause sterling to darken or tarnish over time. Here are some tips to keeping your new jewelry looking good for years to come:

- Remove your jewelry before activities that will expose them to harsh chemicals or extended soaking such as cleaning, bathing, swimming in chlorinated water, soaking in hot springs, etc. These can cause your jewelry to darken and can cause damage to soft stones such as turquoise and opals.

- Apply any lotions and fragrances and allow your skin to dry thoroughly before putting on your jewelry. These items can also contain chemicals that can affect your jewelry.

- When not wearing your jewelry, especially for extended periods of time, store in airtight containers such as a small ziploc bag. Air will cause your jewelry to tarnish more quickly. Adding something with anti-tarnish properties or using special anti-tarnish bags is even better. 

- When storing or transporting, make sure not to store unprotected with other jewelry. This could cause your jewelry to get scratches or be damaged. 

- Tarnish happens. It is inevitable, but luckily it can be removed. To get those pieces looking good again, use a soft jewelry cleaning cloth to remove the tarnish. If you have a piece with a brushed finish (not for those nice shiny pieces) you can also take a little bit fine steel wool to clean while adding back that brushed look. Don't use steel wool unless you want that brushed look!

- Wear your jewelry often! This is the best way to keeping them clean and polished and is why you treated yourself in the first place!