When you make the purchase of fine silver flatware, you are investing in a fine piece of craftsmanship which you intend as a personal luxury for daily use, or to hand down as a family heirloom.  While caring for silver does take a little more effort than stainless flatware, beautifully aged silver is its own reward and a lasting joy.    

To begin with, silver, unlike other fine home furnishings, benefits from daily use.  Frequent use reduces the effects of tarnish and aids in developing patina.  Patina, not to be confused with tarnish, is the warm glow which develops as silver ages. Remember to rotate the pieces used, so the patina develops evenly across the collection.     

Rinse silverware immediately after use, especially after acidic foods such as salt, mayonnaise or eggs which may cause corrosion.   Wash flatware individually, to avoid scratches, in hot, sudsy water, then rinse in clean, hot water.  Crevasses can be cleaned with a fine natural-fiber brush or worn toothbrush.  Dry immediately with a soft cloth to avoid spots.     

A soft cotton or flannel cloth or chamois should be used for polishing.  To remove tarnish, use a name-brand liquid or paste silver polish and rub lengthwise.  Avoid rubbing in a circular or sideways motion as this may cause scratches.  Dip polishes are not recommended for intricate, detailed patterns.  You should expect to polish your silver twice a year if it is used on a regular basis.     

Silver should not be stored loosely in a drawer, especially one with heavy traffic, as this can lead to scratches and exposure to air promotes tarnishing.  Instead, store your silverware in dry dark protective tarnish-proof bags or air tight chests.  Similarly, displaying silverware in a cabinet is also not recommended as a bright light directly on the silver can promote corrosion.     

A few other things to avoid: don’t let silverware soak too long (or overnight) in water as this can damage the metal; avoid detergents with chlorides or lemon-scent as they are acidic and harmful to silver; don’t wrap silverware in plastic, aluminum, newspaper or rubber bands; wash silver and stainless steel separately; keep silverware out of direct sunlight and away from dampness; and don’t store silverware in direct contact with wood, which can contain acids and damage the finish of the silverware.     

Remember, fine silver, like fine wine, improves with age.  Unlike fine wine, however, fine silver can be enjoyed repeatedly over the years while its character improves.