How To Store And Keep Silver Jewelry From Tarnishing?

Silver holds a special place in our heart when it comes down to jewelry. Diamond and gold are undoubtedly the best but, when someone says affordable, we can’t think of anything else other than Silver. Not only you get it for a song, but it does look alluring. However, it tends to tarnish and lose all its shine with time.

But don’t worry because we have a few tips and tricks to store and keep silver jewelery from tarnishing.

Why Does Silver Tarnish?

Silver tarnishes because of the oxidation reaction with hydrogen sulphide present in the air or in any material which is in its contact.

However, tarnishing is different from rust as it affects just the upper layer and not the entire jewelry. Well, that sounds good but, still, you can’t live with tarnished silver.

How To Store Your Silver Jewelry?

Ziplocs

One of the easiest ways to store your silver jewelry is by locking it in a Ziploc so that it doesn’t come in the air’s contact. You can simply put your jewelry inside the Ziploc, locking it halfway while squeezing out all the excess air before sealing. However, make sure that you don’t store it along with abrasive or sharp materials.

Anti-Tarnish Bags

While storing silver in a Ziploc is quite effective, it’s not practical at all. You need to have a separate Ziploc for every piece and, that’s going to create a mess in your box.

We have a better alternative – store your silver jewels in anti-tarnish bags. These bags are large enough to store most of your stuff while keeping it from tarnishing.

Away From Mr Sun

Okay, you do need to flaunt that tan but, your jewelry doesn’t! Keep your silver away from sunlight, in a cool and dry place.

Away From Wood

Wood furniture is generally stained or treated to keep from termites and, hence, keep your silver jewelry away from it as it would speed up the tarnishing process.

Chalk To The Rescue

Chalk is said to have absorbing properties so, you can even place a few pieces of it in your box. It will suck up all the moisture content while keeping the surroundings dry and cosy for your silver.

Use Silica Packs

You will often find silica packs in new shoes, backpacks, or in handbags to keep them moisture-free. So, next time when you find one, keep it in your jewelry box along with silver.

How To Clean Tarnished Silver Jewelry?

Give It A Spa Bath

One of the most effective ways to get rid of tarnish is by giving the jewelry a spa bath.

1. Take a large sheet of aluminium foil and place it in a bowl with the shiny side up.
2. Place tarnished silver over the foil and pour boiling water over it.
3. Sprinkle a good amount of baking soda and watch as the tarnish moves to the foil.
4. Take out the jewelry from the bowl and wash it with clean water. (Repeat the process above if, required.)
5. Buff the jewelry with a soft cloth and store it safely packed in your box.

Cons: The only con of this process is that you can’t use it to clean it with studs or gems as boiling water can cause damage.

Toothpaste To The Rescue

You might be aware of this process as it’s quite effective and age-old technique to get rid of mild tarnishing.

1. Take an old toothbrush with toothpaste on it and, make sure to use one with the mint flavour.
2. Rub the silver with the toothbrush until it’s properly cleaned. You can even use your fingers or a soft cloth instead of a toothbrush.
3. Rinse well with clean water and buff dry with a towel.

Take Help From Alkaline Solution

1. Take a sponge and dip it in hot water. Squeeze out the excess and sprinkle baking soda all over it.
2. Rub the tarnished silver with the sponge until it’s free from all the tarnishing.
3. Wash with soapy water and buff dry with a soft cloth.

Did Someone Say Ketchup?

Do you know that tomato ketchup works wonderfully on tarnished silver?

1. Well, let your silver jewelry coat in tomato ketchup and rub it using a toothbrush or a sponge.
2. Let it soak in soapy water for a while and then, clean it using normal water.
3. Buff dry with a soft cloth or a towel.

So there you have it – simple yet effective ways to store and keep your silver jewelry from tarnishing. We hope that now you won’t feel anxious about your tarnished silver as we have spilt out the secrets to you. Don’t forget to also read 6 Easy Methods To Clean Your Diamond Earrings.