How to Polish Silver Jewelry

Those who appreciate silver jewelry know that it requires occasional maintenance to keep its luster. Silver jewelry can tarnish, taking on a golden patina that will eventually turn black if not properly cleaned and polished. Filigree work on the jewelry and other ornate designs are especially prone to tarnishing and grime build-up. Your silver may tarnish quicker if you live in a higher humidity area; although all silver will tarnish eventually. You can easily polish your silver jewelry to keep it looking like new.

Things You'll Need

• Treated polishing cloth Cotton cloth Polishing dip Cotton swab

Instructions

1. Rub a polishing cloth over the surface of the jewelry. Silver specific polishing cloths are treated with polishing agents that help to remove tarnish.

2. Dip a corner of the cloth into a jewelry polishing or cleaning dip. Choose a cleaning dip that is formulated for silver jewelry. Rub the jewelry with the dipped cloth.

3. Dip the tip of a cotton swab into the polishing dip and clean the crevices on the jewelry with it. Rotate the swab over any small details or filigree to remove the tarnish.

4. Buff the jewelry one final time with a dry, untreated polishing or plain cotton cloth. Remove any residue left behind by the cleaning products.

Tips & Warnings

• A soft bristled toothbrush can be used to remove stubborn tarnish or grime from intricate detailing.

• Avoid soaking jewelry in polishing or cleaning solutions as it can damage the piece.