Sterling silver is one of the precious metals that can tarnish when exposed to oxygen for too long. Unless kept in an air tight contraption, there will be some amount of tarnishing. So, if you're like the rest of us, then some of that silver jewelry is going to need to be cleaned a little here and there. These are some safe recipes that will help you clean the gunk and reveal the sparkle again!
1. White Vinegar and Baking Soda:
This mixture is one of the best for an easy, at home cleaning process. This calls for 1/2 a cup of white vinegar and two tablespoons of baking soda. Mix the two ingredients together to create the cleaning solution. Soak the tarnished jewelry in the solution for an hour at least and wipe off with a warm washcloth.
2. Pine sol and Water:
This is a faster method than the white vinegar and baking soda and it still gets the job done. Take about two tablespoons of pine sol and add equal parts of warm water. Soak the tarnished jewelry for about 30 seconds, then remove and wipe with a warm washcloth. This one may take more "arm grease" than the other two solutions.
3. Baking Soda and Aluminum Foil:
A personal favorite when it comes to cleaning jewelry! The recipe calls for about 2 cups of boiling water, a bowl, aluminum foil, and two tablespoons of baking soda. Completely cast the bowl and line it with aluminum foil, bowl side up. Once the water is boiling and the aluminum has been lined, pour the boiling water into the bowl. Then add the two tablespoons of baking soda (it will be fizzing), and finally drop the jewelry in. The cleaning process will take about 2-5 minutes. The water will be very hot, so we recommend using tongs or a fork to fish your jewelry out.
Be wary to use these at home recipes on precious stones, and ask us if there are any questions we can answer to help. Happy cleaning!