How to Care for Sterling Silver & Gold Vermeil Jewelry (and Keep It Shining for Years)
At Milk & Rose, our pieces are handcrafted in sterling silver and luxurious gold vermeil, designed to be lived in, loved, and passed down. To keep your jewelry looking as radiant as the day you first wore it, proper care is essential.
Below, we share our expert tips on how to clean, protect, and style your sterling silver and gold vermeil jewelry ~ with a focus on durability, skin safety, and timeless beauty.
Why Sterling Silver and Gold Vermeil?
Sterling silver is one of the most durable precious metals, made of 92.5% pure silver. Gold vermeil is a layer of thick 18k gold over sterling silver. That means our pieces are nickel-free, hypoallergenic, and safe for sensitive skin, while offering the warmth of gold with the strength of silver.
This combination creates jewelry that feels luxurious yet wearable for everyday life.
Everyday Jewelry Care Tips
✨ Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Perfumes, hairspray, and cleaning products can dull metal and gemstones. Always put your jewelry on last when getting ready.
✨ Keep It Dry
Remove pieces before swimming, showering, or exercising. Water and sweat can wear down gold plating faster.
✨ Store It Properly
When not in use, keep your jewelry in a soft pouch or lined box. At Milk & Rose, each order comes with our custom pouch, perfect for preventing scratches and tangles.
✨ Polish Gently
For sterling silver, use a soft polishing cloth to remove natural tarnish. For gold vermeil, wipe with a dry, non-abrasive cloth only — avoid chemical cleaners.
Special Care for Pearls & Gemstones
If you own a piece from our Pearls Collection, remember that pearls and natural gemstones like jade or aquamarine are more delicate. Wipe them with a soft cloth after wear and avoid soaking them in water. Store them separately so they don’t scratch against harder jewelry.
Quick Fixes for Tarnish
• Light tarnish: Use a silver polishing cloth.
• Heavier tarnish: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water, dip a soft cloth, and gently rub. Rinse quickly and dry thoroughly.
• Do NOT: Use silver dips or harsh cleaners on vermeil or pearl jewelry.
Jewelry That Lasts a Lifetime
Every Milk & Rose design is made to combine style, comfort, and durability. Our Essentials Collection offers timeless chains and hoops you can wear daily. The Handmade Collection, created in our Istanbul studio, brings artistry and uniqueness. For men, the Milk Man Collection redefines bold, modern jewelry. And of course, our Pearls Collection celebrates natural beauty with genuine freshwater pearls and stones.
With the right care, these pieces are more than accessories ~ they’re future heirlooms.