Sterling silver, copper, and brass discolor (oxidize/tarnish) when exposed to many everyday chemicals. Products such as lotion, makeup, hair spray, and perfume can significantly hasten this discoloration. That said, below are a few tips to keep your jewelry looking brighter for longer:

• Wear it: One of the easiest ways to minimize the build-up of tarnish is to simply wear your jewelry often. Letting your jewelry sit in the open allows chemicals to settle on it, thus causing discoloration. Frequently wearing your jewelry causes some of these chemicals to be rubbed off. Also…jewelry looks better on you, than on your dresser!

• Put it on last: Putting your jewelry on after getting ready in the morning will minimize the amount of products such as perfume that settle on your jewelry.

• Clean it: If any of your Sterling, copper, or brass jewelry (SCHÖN product, or not) becomes discolored, many products are available to brighten them up. We find that Tarnx does a great job when the directions are followed.

• Bonus tip!: Giving your jewelry a brushed finish makes caring for it even easier! Simply rub an abrasive dish scrubber (like a green Scotch-Brite pad) over your jewelry to scratch off any discoloration. This also leaves a neat matte finish to your jewelry! Please note that if you want it shiny after doing this, it will need to be polished.