How to Clean Sterling Silver Over Platinum

Sterling silver over platinum jewelry, also called vermeil, is sterling silver jewelry that has been coated in a 1.5-micron or thicker layer of platinum. This is a great way to get the beauty and durability of platinum jewelry at a fraction of the cost, but it also comes with some strict cleaning requirements since vermeil can tarnish, similar to silver. Fortunately, these cleaning requirements are simple and you can keep your vermeil jewelry clean and bright.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloth
• Ziplock bag
• Baking soda
• Baby toothbrush

Instructions

1. Wipe down the ring. Use the soft, dry cloth and firm pressure. Push the cloth into the crevices of the ring and polish every facet of any stones.

2. Fill the Ziplock bag half full of baking soda. There should be enough baking soda in the bag to completely cover the jewelry.

3. Place the jewelry in the bag. Only put one piece in the bag at a time. Seal the bag tightly.

4. Shake the bag gently. The baking soda will not damage any stones or the finish of the jewelry.

5. Brush the baking soda out of the crevices in the jewelry. Use the baby toothbrush to gently remove all the powder.

6. Wipe down the jewelry again with the soft cloth. Use gentle pressure and polish the entire item. Your vermeil jewelry should be bright and shiny---ready to wear.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep vermeil jewelry away from bleaches and do not in hot tubs or swimming pools.

References

• Oster: Vermeil
• Jewelry by DJ: Vermeil