So you've neglected your silver and let it tarnish, here are some tips on how to bring it back to its beautiful original luster. If your piece has smooth lines without any detail, a two ply polishing cloth will work great. The inside of the cloth contains a polishing agent to get the tarnish, and the outside of the cloth is a soft material for buffing. Remember to rub in a straight back-and-forth manner, avoid rubbing in a circular motion.

If your piece of jewelry has detailed areas that need cleaning, then a polishing lotion or liquid with a soft brush will be necessary (a baby toothbrush or a soft horsehair brush will work fine). If you like to wear gloves, then use special anti-tarnish or cotton cloth gloves, latex gloves contain ingredients that tarnish silver. You can get sulfur-free nitrile gloves at a drug store (ask for the gloves you would wear if you had a latex allergy). We recommend silver polish lotions or sprays made by Tarni-Shield (3M) or Hagerty's. They are both gentle and contain an anti-tarnish barrier. Hagerty's Silversmith's Spray Polish is excellent for intricate areas. Always rinse thoroughly and dry with a cotton cloth or dishtowel.

Remember, to stay on top of the tarnish! Catch it before it gets bad, and you will never have to scrub your pieces. There is no need to be scared of silver, with a little bit of care in cleaning and storing, your silver will always be bright and ready to wear!

TARNISH PREVENTION