Photos and documents eventually yellow and deteriorate even in optimal storage conditions. Dark stability measures how well a material resists degradation in a darkened environment.

Safe Keeping: Antique Silver

Keep your silver in pristine condition by washing pieces immediately after use with hot water and mild, non-lemon detergent. Never wash silver with stainless steel — a chemical reaction could mar the silver's finish. Wipe dry with a soft cloth, avoiding contact with your hands. To reduce tarnish, store pieces in silver cloth pouches inside polyethylene plastic zipper bags with the air squeezed out. Use silver polish only for heavy tarnish; clean grooves with a cotton swab, rather than abrasives.