Over time, precious metals (sterling silver) and plating (gold vermeil) will naturally tarnish, especially when exposed to environmental factors like air pollution, moisture and chemicals like sulfur. Proactive maintenance is key here, so be sure to clean your pieces regularly with a soft dry cloth and store them in the pouches they come in. Remove your gold vermeil pieces before: showering, swimming, participating in activities that will cause you to sweat, and applying lotions, perfume or makeup.To remove tarnish on gold vermeil pieces, gently wipe them with a soft cleaning cloth. For sterling silver, gently buff your pieces with a sterling silver polishing cloth. Please do not use abrasive cleaners.