How to clean silver jewelry yourself?

Silver jewelry that has blackened or lost its shine? If you want to know how to clean it, here are several methods that will not necessarily require you to use a cleaning product or special household products. Moreover, chemical products are not necessarily recommended because they can damage the stones and often a soft cloth or a microfiber cloth is enough to restore the shine to oxidized jewelry.

Different methods for cleaning silver jewelry

Using Toothpaste to Clean Silver Jewelry

Grab some toothpaste and follow these steps:

1. Mix a small amount of toothpaste with warm water to create a thick paste.
2. Apply the paste to your silver jewelry and rub it gently with a soft toothbrush.
3. Rinse your jewelry thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of toothpaste.
4. Wipe your jewelry with a soft cloth to dry it.

It is important to note that this method can damage some silver jewelry if it has precious or delicate stones, so it is best to clean it with a soft damp cloth. It is also important to check that the stones are well set before cleaning them.

Use white vinegar

White vinegar is very easily found in stores and at low prices. Here's how to use it on your oxidized jewelry:

1. Fill a bowl with warm water and add two tablespoons of white vinegar.
2. Dip your silver jewelry into the mixture and let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Remove your jewelry from the solution and gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush to remove dirt and stains.
4. Rinse your jewelry thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of vinegar.
5. Wipe your jewelry with a soft cloth to dry it.

Use baking soda

If you prefer to use baking soda instead of toothpaste to clean your jewelry, follow the same method: mix a tablespoon of baking soda with water to create a thick paste and apply it to your silver jewelry.

Using aluminum foil for your oxidized jewelry

Please note, this method is very effective. It is important to note that this can damage some types of silver or gemstones, so it is important to first check if it is suitable for your silver jewelry or items before using it.

If you want to try, you can follow these steps:

1. Cover the bottom of a bowl or dish with a sheet of aluminum foil and add a tablespoon of salt.
2. Add warm water until the salt is completely dissolved.
3. Dip the silver items into the solution.
4. Let the items soak for a few minutes.
5. Remove the items from the solution and wipe them with a soft cloth to dry.
6. Rinse the items with clean water to remove all traces of salt.

Use lemon juice

Lemon juice can be used to clean silver jewelry. Simply mix a small amount of lemon juice with warm water and gently rub the jewelry with this solution. It is important to rinse the jewelry thoroughly after cleaning and dry it with a clean cloth. However, it is important to note that this method should not be used for silver plated jewelry as it can damage it irreparably.

What products should you avoid when cleaning your silver jewelry?

It is important to avoid certain chemicals when cleaning silver jewelry as they can cause irreparable damage. In particular, avoid using:

• Chloride: It can cause corrosion and staining on silver jewelry.
• Acetone: This is a solvent that can cause surface alterations to silver jewelry.
• Abrasive cleaners: There is a risk of scratching the surface of silver jewelry and making it dull.
• Products containing ammonia: this can cause the color of the jewelry to change.
• Products containing acids: they can cause corrosion and stains on silver jewelry.

It is best to use gentle cleaning methods like those listed above.

What is the best method for cleaning antique jewelry?

Whether it is our antique silver rings or our gold ones, we must pay particular attention to cleaning our jewelry. First of all, you should know that if you have jewelry in a closed setting, or on a paillon, it is not recommended to soak them in water. The water could get stuck under the stone and damage the jewelry.

For us, the best method for cleaning antique jewelry remains the simplest: lukewarm water with dishwashing liquid and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Gently rub the jewelry, paying attention to the stone, and dry the jewelry in a soft cloth.

This obviously depends on the nature of the jewelry and its condition. It is important to note that it is best to have antique jewelry cleaned by a professional, such as an experienced jeweler, who has the skills and tools to perform a safe cleaning.