How to Reverse Oxidation on Silver Jewelry

Oxidation can appear white or light brown in color.

Oxidation occurs on silver jewelry as a result of exposure to the sulfur compounds in the elements. Contact with various other substances, including wool fabrics, some paints and greasy foods can also cause the appearance of tarnish. Protect jewelry from oxidation by doing a gentle cleaning with water after wear, as recommended by professional silversmith Jeffrey Herman. Only use cleaning pastes professionally manufactured for silver to remove oxidation, to prevent inadvertent damage to the metal jewelry.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• Warm water
• Gloves
• 2 cloths
• Silver-cleaning paste
• Soft-bristled toothbrush

Instructions

1. Fill the bowl halfway with warm water. Don the gloves to protect the skin from the cleaning agents. Remove any extraneous dirt from the jewelry by rinsing in the warm water and gently patting dry with a cloth.

2. Remove oxidation from large, smooth areas of the jewelry by dipping a small section of a cloth into the silver-cleaning paste. Rub the jewelry in small circles, frequently replenishing the silver paste.

3. Isolate small pieces of oxidation in the crevices of the jewelry by dipping the toothbrush into the bowl of water. Use the bristles to gently apply the paste in a circular motion.

4. Rinse the cleaning paste off the jewelry in the warm water a second time. Immediately remove any traces of water by rubbing the item completely dry. Reapply silver paste with a cloth or toothbrush to any lingering oxidation as needed.

References

• Real Simple: How to Clean Silver Jewelry
• Herman Silver: The Care of Silver