Oxidized silver has a dark, raw finish that sets it apart from polished silver. That darkness is not dirt – it is a controlled chemical process that brings out depth, texture and contrast in the metal. Knowing how to care for it keeps your piece looking exactly as intended.
What Oxidized Means
All THOHT jewellery is made from 925 sterling silver that has been oxidized. The process darkens the surface of the metal, emphasizing carved detail and giving the piece a matte, worn-in quality. Over time, the raised parts of the design naturally brighten with wear while the recesses stay dark – this contrast is part of the design.
What to Avoid
- Ultrasonic cleaners – these strip the oxidization completely
- Silver polish cloths – designed to remove tarnish, they will remove the dark finish too
- Chlorine and bleach – pools, hot tubs, cleaning products
- Prolonged water exposure – remove before swimming or showering
How to Clean It
Warm water and a soft cloth. That is all you need. For stubborn dirt in the detail of a sculpted piece, use a soft toothbrush with mild soap, rinse well and dry completely.
Storage
Store silver in a dry place away from direct sunlight. An anti-tarnish pouch or cloth slows the natural oxidization process. Keep pieces separate to avoid scratching.
When the Finish Changes
If your piece lightens significantly over time and you want to restore the dark finish, a jeweller can re-oxidize it. This is a simple process. Alternatively, embrace the change – a THOHT piece that has been worn for years carries its own history in the metal.