Cleaning silver jewelry likely isn’t one of the tasks at the top ofyour to-do list.
These frequently worn pieces typically only need an occasional polish.
If your necklace or bracelet doesn’t have these markings, it’s probably silver-plated.
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Another test you’re free to try is using a magnet on your jewelry.
Because it’s a precious metal, pure silver is not magnetic.
Soak Silver Jewelry
Add a few drops of liquid dish soap to warm water.
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Mix until bubbles form.
Soak jewelry in the solution for five to 10 minutes.
Scrub Silver Jewelry
Use a soft-bristle brush, such as a toothbrush, to clean any crevices.
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Rinse jewelry in warm water.
Dry Silver Jewelry
To dry, gently rub jewelry with a silver cloth or a microfiber towel.
Avoid using paper towels, as these can scratch the silver.
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Fine silver jewelry with diamonds or other precious gems can often be cleaned with soap and water as well.
Let the paste dry completely to remove the tarnish.
Rinse and Dry Jewelry
Rinse and dry with a soft cloth or microfiber towel.
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you’ve got the option to also follow a similar method using cornstarch.
Avoid using toothpaste to clean silver-plated jewelry, as it can remove the finish.
The DIY methods described above can also work to clean silver rings.
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These could be damaged by certain cleaning methods.
Vinegar, for example, can harm porous stones, and baking soda can scratch soft metals.
Again, if the ring is precious, consult a professional before cleaning.
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Luckily, you’re free to use the same method used to clean silver flatware for chains.
The tarnish on silver is often silver sulfide, which is created when sulfur atoms combine with silver.
Note that this strategy is effective, but it can smell unpleasant.
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Prep Supplies
Line the entire surface of a large bowl or pan with aluminum foil.
Fill the pan with boiling water.
Add 1/4 cup baking soda and two teaspoonskosher saltto the water and stir.
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Let sit for up to five minutes.
Dry Jewelry
Remove and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
As a general guideline, polish silver jewelry every month or two, or more often as needed.
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First, allsilver jewelry should be stored properlyin soft, anti-tarnish bags in a cool, dark place.
The lower the humidity, the better.
Extra moisture is also why leaving jewelry in the bathroom is not a good idea.
Chlorine damages silver, so don’t wear it in a chlorinated pool.
Most skin and hair products can be harmful to sterling silver as well.
Sterling silver will tarnish because it has a 7.5% makeup of other metals, usuallycopper, which tarnishes.
There are many commercial jewelry cleaners available on the market with which you might clean silver jewelry.
Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding to confirm it’s a fit for your jewelry items.
