How to Add an Antique Finish to Sterling Silver Jewelry
Cleaning and polishing sterling silver jewelry produces a brilliant shine. Just as areas of deep contrast add beauty to photographs and paintings, "oxidizing" silver adds areas of deep contrast to textured metal. Contrast highlights the metal's shine and adds an antique finish to even the newest jewelry. Professional jewelers use dangerous chemicals to produce an antique finish. But these chemicals are not necessary. The same results can be achieved using an egg, a plastic container, time and patience.
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Things You'll Need
- Dawn dishwashing liquid
- 1 hard-boiled egg
- Plastic container
- String
- Baking soda
Instructions
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1
Wash the piece of jewelry thoroughly with Dawn dishwashing liquid. The metal must be free of dirt and oils for the procedure to work properly.
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2
Hard boil the egg. While it is still warm, cut it in half (with or without the shell). Place the halves in the bottom of the container.
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3
Hang the piece of jewelry from the string. The egg's sulfur vapors react with the surface of the metal, so it is important to expose as much of the jewelry to the vapors as possible. Stretch the string across the top of the container. Holding the string in place, place the top onto the container and snap it shut.
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Wait. The process may take more than 1 day. Check the jewelry throughout the day. If the recesses have achieved the desired color, remove it. If not, reseal the container and wait.
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5
When the jewelry has darkened sufficiently, remove it from the container. Wash it thoroughly. Gently rub off any darkened areas you wish to remove with baking soda.
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Tips & Warnings
Beeswax or paraffin provides extra protection for your jewelry's surface. Consult a professional jeweler about which product to use to protect your jewelry.
Handle hot eggs carefully to avoid burns.
