How to clean silver jewelry and remove tarnish

Silver turns black through a reaction with sulfur compounds in the air and on skin. It is normal and it can be removed. Here are the methods that work and the ones to avoid.

Quick everyday cleaning #

Wipe with a cotton cloth or a silver polishing cloth, always soft and dry. If there is dirt, wash the piece in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, rinse and dry well. Doing it regularly stops the darkening from building up.

When it is already black: baking soda and aluminum foil #

1. Line a container with aluminum foil, shiny side up.
2. Add very hot water and one tablespoon of baking soda per liter.
3. Place the silver so it touches the foil for 2-5 minutes.
4. Rinse, dry with a soft cloth and buff.

The reaction moves the sulfur to the aluminum and leaves clean silver without rubbing.

What not to do #

• Do not use toothpaste: it is abrasive and leaves micro-scratches.
• Avoid vinegar or lemon on pieces with stones, pearls or glue.
• Do not use the foil method on pearls, opals, turquoise, amber, coral or pieces with glued stones.
• If a piece has an intentional dark patina (oxidized silver), clean it only with a soft cloth: the methods above will remove it.

When to see a jeweler #

If the piece is antique, has many stones or is badly deteriorated, a jeweler can clean it ultrasonically and polish it without risk.

See also #

• Why silver turns black and how to prevent it
• Home remedies for cleaning jewelry: what works and what does not
• How to store jewelry so it does not get damaged
• Care and cleaning of silver jewelry