1. What is this "925 sterling silver"? The stamp of quality that is usually found at the back or the bottom of each item with the number 925, testifies that the craft is made of the highest standard of quality for sterling silver and that it contains 92.5% of pure silver and 7.5% copper.
2. My silverware is turning black. can I prevent it? First of all the process is called oxidation and its a natural process that occurs due to contact of the silver with the air (we all know that Jewish silverware behind closed glass doors becomes black much slower). Silver is a precious metal that has the tendency to become yellow and then turn black. To preserve your Judaica crafts shiny for a long time we recommend that the objects be softly wiped every two weeks. This will prevent the silver from becoming yellow or black. Not many people know it but wine can sometimes damage the silver coating, leaving stains that cannot even be removed with the best of silver cleaning preparations so after the Shabbat meal the goblet must be wiped clean with a soft dry cloth. This should be done with all silverware that has come in touch with wine or with other liquids. silver items should not be submerged in water for a long time. Always keep them dry and shiny.
3. How do I clean my silverware? For deep cleansing and perfect shine we recommend using the special silver cleaning creams or sprays. The top products are easy to use and have almost no side effects caused by strong scents and excess cream. Some of them even contain R-22, which creates a protective layer on the silver and therefore delays the oxidation process. Look for the products that don't harm the silver coating and are Kosher for Pesach and for every day of the year. Read the instructions very carefuly and follow them ALL. Clean the items softly and DO NOT use force, particularly when cleaning your silver candelabra or candleholders, which have fine parts and could bend out of shape. Silverware that comes in contact with food must be washed after each use, especially if it has come in contact with vinegar, wine, lemon or salt. After washing, the object must be wiped dry with a soft cloth.
4. How to remove candles wax from silver candleholders? First fo all - Don't use any sharp tools, they could cause scratches on the silver surface! The candles wax becomes very easy to remove when becomes warm, so simply dip your candelabra or candlesticks in hot water for a few minutes (our grandmother used to do it in a large bowl) so that the wax will become warm and can then, be easily removed. Don't forget to wipe all the excess water immediately with a soft dry cloth so no drop stains will remain.
