How to Remove Tarnish from Your Sterling Silver Chains

Intro

Sterling silver chains are timeless, bold, and built to last, but they can tarnish over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and everyday wear. The good news? Restoring their shine is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to removing tarnish and keeping your sterling silver chains looking as good as new.

Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver, alloyed with 7.5% other metals) reacts with sulfur and moisture in the air, creating a dull, dark layer of tarnish. This is a natural process and doesn’t mean your chain is damaged—it just needs some care to restore its brilliance.

What You’ll Need

Mild dish soap
Warm water
Soft microfiber or polishing cloth
Baking soda
Aluminum foil
A small bowl
Toothbrush (optional, with soft bristles)
Silver Dip

Methods to Remove Tarnish

1. Quick Soap and Water Clean

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
Dip your chain into the soapy solution and gently rub with your fingers or a soft cloth.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry immediately with a microfiber cloth.

Best for: Light tarnish or routine cleaning.

2. Baking Soda and Aluminum Foil - Video HERE

Line a small bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda and pour in warm water.
Submerge your chain, ensuring it touches the foil (this is crucial for the reaction).
Let it sit for 2-5 minutes, then rinse and dry.

Why it works: This chemical reaction neutralizes tarnish, restoring shine.

Best for: Moderate tarnish.

5. Using a Silver Dip Cleaner

Purchase a commercial silver dip cleaner HERE designed for sterling silver.
Submerge your chain in the solution according to the product instructions (usually for a few seconds).
Rinse thoroughly under cold water and dry with a soft cloth.

Why it works: Silver dips are formulated to quickly dissolve tarnish without the need for scrubbing.

Best for: Quick and convenient tarnish removal, especially for intricate chain designs.

3. Polishing with a Silver Cloth

Use a specialized silver polishing cloth to gently buff the surface of your chain.
Avoid over-polishing, as this can wear down the silver over time.

Best for: Touch-ups or achieving a high-polish shine.

How to Prevent Tarnish

1. Store Properly: Keep your chains in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish cloth pouch.

2. Wear Often: Regular wear prevents tarnish buildup by keeping the silver polished through friction.

3. Avoid Exposure: Remove your chain when swimming, showering, or using chemicals like perfumes or cleaning products.

Regular Maintenance is Key

A little monthly care goes a long way in preserving the shine and durability of your sterling silver chains. Following these simple tips will keep your chain bold and brilliant for years to come.

Got questions or tips for caring for your silver? Let us know in the comments or send us a message—we’d love to hear from you!