Silver Hardware: Silver ornaments are cast in solid brass or zinc, then lavishly dipped in pure silver. Since silver has a natural tendency to tarnish (oxidize) and scratch, we add a protective layer of lacquer to assist in retarding this typical occurrence.Cleaning suggestions: To clean your silver ornaments, simply buff with a clean soft cloth. Never use any silver cleaners, jewelry cleaners, or chemicals (this includes jewelry cloths treated with chemical solutions).Please note that many types of stains and marks are untreatable. This includes, but is not limited to, stains caused by: ink, cosmetics, food stains, oils, body / hand moisturizers, hand sanitizing cleansers or perfumes.