Sterling silver jewelry, whether it’s 800 nickel silver or 950 sterling will darken over time. Rhodium plated sterling silver will remain shiny without polishing.

There are several methods. A polishing cloth, widely available at jewelry stores and online, is safe and easy. Liquid dips are quick and easy to use but will damage jewelry that appears sterling but is not. To clean several items at once, follow these steps: line a bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up; sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda in  the bowl; add jewelry; pour boiling water in bowl to cover the jewelry; add more baking soda and stir; let cool for 5 minutes; rinse in warm water and dry the items.

Yes. I use Meguiar’s Gold Class Carnuba Premium Paste Wax to bring out gems’ warmth and luster.

Yes. I  submerged my gold jewelry in a few drops of Dawn dishwashing liquid with several drops of ammonia in warm water. After brushing them with an ultra soft baby toothbrush I rinse them in warm water and dry them.

Yes. Most gold jewelry runs from 10K to 24K, with 10K being relatively hard and 24K the softest. Karat refers to gold purity as follows: 10K (42%), 14K (58.4%), 18K (75%) and 24k (100%). 14k is the most popular choice, combining durability and luster. While 24K gold is gorgeous it is too soft for everyday wear. However, a 24K gold  coin in a sturdy bezel is a good choice.

It’s a matter of personal taste. I have no problem with it, and often combine yellow and white gold pieces, or silver and yellow gold. I even have several pieces of tricolor gold-gold, white and rose-for a different look.

Several reasons. Delicate items may not have enough area to mark carat or silver purity because of their design. All so, some jewelers don’t find it necessary to mark their items. Last, vintage fine jewelry marks may have worn off.