How to Clean Dirty Silver Jewelry
When first purchased, silver jewelry is shiny, clean and bright. Over time, silver jewelry dulls and tarnishes due to contact with lotions, skin oils, air sulfides, pollution, dust and dirt. Thorough, regular cleaning of silver jewelry will help illuminate each piece and maintain its natural beauty. Cleaning dirty silver jewelry at home is an inexpensive, easy process. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Inspect jewelry for loose stones, prongs and clasps. If jewelry requires repair, consult a professional jeweler first before cleaning silver at home.
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Rub silver jewelry with a soft cleansing cloth. As silver is a soft metal, use care when polishing to prevent bending or scratching the jewelry piece. Gently buff surface dirt and oils off the silver jewelry, utilizing a soft-bristled toothbrush or watercolor paintbrush for small, hard-to-reach crevices and grooves.
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Choose a mild cleansing agent for silver jewelry. Investigate gentle silver jewelry cleaning products or create a homemade cleaning formula (see Resources below). Consider using the popular Sunshine Cloth. Do not use bleach, alcohol or ammonia, as these harsh chemicals will damage and possibly ruin silver jewelry. Additionally, avoid grainy, textured home cleansing products. For extremely dirty jewelry pieces, consider a cleansing dip method, utilizing a stronger cleansing product (such as Goddard's Silver Dip). However, some dips with remove polish off gemstones and could potential ruin jewelry.
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Gently dampen the silver jewelry. Add a small amount of the delicate cleansing agent to the soft cloth. Test a small area of the silver jewelry first, to ensure safe and effective application. If the cleansing agent is determined appropriate, rub and polish the silver gently with the cleansing cloth, utilizing an up-and-down motion (not circular). The solution may darken during the process. Simply rinse the cloth in warm water and repeat the cleansing process.
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Dry silver jewelry. Once fully-clean, dry silver jewelry with silver wipes, rouge cloth or a 100% cotton towel. Be watchful of jewelry beads, stones, prongs and delicate designs.
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Store silver jewelry properly. When not wearing jewelry pieces, store them separately in soft, lined boxes or jewelry bags. Do not place them on wood or store items together. Avoid storing the pieces in high-heat and humid areas. Consider purchasing tarnish-resistant silver storage boxes for long-term use.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not wear silver jewelry in pools or hot tubs.
Be careful of delicate jewelry and gemstones; If in doubt about cleansing process, consult a jeweler for proper procedure or professional cleaning services.
