How to Revamp Tarnished Jewelry

Spring is upon us, which means it’s the perfect time to take on seasonal cleaning. From dusting off your surfaces to going through your closet, there are many ways to refresh your household. At Graham Jewelers, we love helping our customers renew their jewelry for spring. Whether you prefer to follow DIY tips or would like to have a professional spruce up your prized pieces, our team is here to help. Follow our top recommendations on how to revamp tarnished jewelry this season.

Getting Started

Before you begin, go through your jewelry collections to identify what pieces need some extra love and attention. When you’ve selected these styles, determine what materials are used. Which pieces are made with silver, gold, tungsten or stainless steel? Do they showcase diamonds or gemstones? Are there any embellishments secured with glue or held by metal settings? If you have no idea where to start, you can rely on our experts at Graham Jewelers. After all, we always recommend getting a second opinion.

Next Steps

Once you’ve uncovered these pieces, it’s time to start cleaning. Some pieces can be polished at home, while others may require a professional service. Be wary of using ultrasonic cleaners, as some gemstones can’t handle the vibrations. We suggest steering clear of harsh chemicals, as some of these substances can ruin your precious pieces. Luckily, many of the items you need can be found around your home!

Tarnished Silver

Air exposure can leave your silver jewelry tarnished. However, when you frequently wear these pieces, you’ll avoid this. Whenever you store your jewelry, make sure they’re individually placed in air-tight bags. For extra protection, you can always toss in a silica gel packet. If your silver jewelry becomes tarnished, you’ll need a silver polishing cloth. Avoid using paper towels or tissues, as the fibers could damage your delicate pieces. 

Tarnished Gold

While solid gold won’t tarnish, certain pieces that are mixed with base metals can. Simply pour warm water into a bowl, add your jewelry and a couple drops of dishwashing liquid. Soak your jewelry in this solution for approximately 20 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Finally, rinse with cold water and dry using a soft cloth.

Receive a Professional Cleaning at Graham Jewelers

Now that you’ve learned some simple ways on how to revamp tarnished jewelry, you can refresh your pieces this spring! If you have jewelry that’s made with fine diamonds and gemstones or would prefer to have your jewelry professionally serviced, our team at Graham Jewelers would love to help! We’ll evaluate your collection and make your pieces shine like new again. Contact us online or visit our store at 800 Lake Street E. in Wayzata, Minnesota!