Silver is a gorgeous metal and is widely used in jewelry, but it’s well known that over time it can develop a dull, dark appearance. This discoloration, known as tarnish, is a natural reaction between the silver and sulfur in the air.
It's completely normal! It does not mean your jewelry is cheap or has something wrong with it. If this has happened to your pieces, here is how to make your silver shine like new again.
The easiest thing you can do is slow or prevent discoloration in the first place. However, if you're like me and don't have the time or capacity for this, just skip past these points and go ahead to the numbered section...
- Prevention Tips:
- Store silver in airtight bags or anti-tarnish pouches to reduce exposure to air
- Avoid chemicals touching your silver (things like cleaning products)
- Remove your silver jewelry before swimming or applying lotion/perfume
- Use a microfiber cloth on silver jewelry after each wear to remove oil/sweat
1. The hashtag #science way to fix it:
Line a bowl with aluminum foil, fill it with hot water, and add 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of salt. Submerge your jewelry in the mix and let it sit for a few minutes before removing, rinsing, and drying. (Don't skip the foil, that's needed for a chemical reaction that transfers the tarnish from the silver to the foil). This method is satisfying to watch (lots of bubbling) and you can see it clean up before your eyes. I especially recommend this way if you have kids that would enjoy watching or helping.
2. Hand-Polishing With A Cloth
There are specific, high-quality silver polishing cloths you can buy to help you maintain your jewelry at home by hand. You can buy these online or at a local jewelry shop. The best advice is to gather your tarnished pieces, put on your favorite tv show, and enjoy the process of hand-cleaning your jewelry. This works best on pieces that have large swaths of silver that are easy to pass a cloth across. Highly intricate or delicate jewelry may require #4 below
3. Silver Cleaning Dips or Solutions
If you want a quick and easy fix, a dip solution is for you. Hagerty's Brand is a favorite one that works every time. You can find it at your local hardware store or online. Simply dip your tarnished pieces in the jar for several seconds, take them out, and rinse with soap and water and pat dry. This is best for intricate or delicate pieces.
4. The Professional Way
If your silver jewelry has delicate designs, gemstones, or is heavily tarnished, it’s best to let a professional handle it. Look for your local small jewelry shop and stop in. Many places will clean your pieces for free (or a small fee) AND check your stones and overall piece to make sure it's in good shape.
Overall, don’t let a little tarnished silver jewelry dull your sparkle. Visit the jewelry shop to add some new pieces to your silver collection.