The best friends of each girl can rightfully be called not only diamonds, but also any jewelry: gold and silver.
However, silver occupies a niche of everyday, but, nevertheless, very elegant and elegant jewelry.
Silver is a lunar metal that is fanned with a halo of femininity, mystery and mysticism.
Despite the undoubted advantages, silver has its drawbacks. The most important of them is the darkening of the metal over time.
There are several reasons for this:
• A large amount of copper in the alloy (usually they use a test of 925 or 875, if the figure is lower, then silver jewelry is more susceptible to mechanical and chemical effects);
• Permanent contact of the jewelry with the body (due to sweat secreted by the body, silver begins to fade and blacken over time);
• Diseases that change the composition of a person's sweat (in this case, the metal may darken, even if you remove it at the end of the day);
• High humidity;
• The use of creams and perfumes that contain chemicals that lead to the oxidation of silver.
Even if you have already encountered this problem, do not worry - the process can be reversed!
How to clean a silver chain to shine like new: general recommendations
An unpleasant change in the color of silver is a consequence of a chemical reaction between a metal and substances from the environment, the "oxidation" of silver. Of course, the easiest way is simply to prevent the appearance of this color, but already darkened silver can be cleaned!
At the moment, in many jewelry stores, in addition to jewelry, there are also means to care for them. Often jewelry is bought already complete with them. There are solutions designed to both prevent and remove browning. There are also funds in the form of specialized napkins, soaps and sprays. They should be used strictly according to the instructions attached to them. There are workshops in which, in addition to repairing jewelry, they also clean them.
The advantage of cleaning silver with a ready-made product is that it not only removes dirt and darkened areas, but also gives shine, creating a protective film. Thanks to her, the jewelry will not change color for a long time, since the film protects the metal from oxidation.
In addition to cleansing with purchased tools, you can try cleansing silver at home, which, according to those who tested it, is no less effective.
How to clean a silver chain at home
The basis of any metal cleaning at home is the removal of darkened sediment. It can be removed, both chemically and mechanically.
Mechanical methods are based on the removal of the area that has changed its color, using friction and removing layer by layer. If you want your silver jewelry to serve you for a long time, then you should refuse to reuse this method, but a single one will not cause irreparable consequences. Among the mechanical methods distinguish:
• Cleaning silver with a stationery eraser;
• Purification using crushed chalk or soda;
• Removing browning with toothpaste;
• Silver processing cheap lipstick.
The essence of chemical purification of silver is the neutralization of dark plaque, using the reaction between it and the substances of the purifier. This is a more gentle option, which, unlike the mechanical one, is also suitable for objects with a complex shape or jewelry containing precious stones. There are many different methods, but the most popular are:
• Cleaning with ammonia;
• Cleaning with a solution of citric acid;
• Peeling with potatoes;
• Removal of plaque with vinegar;
• Using an ammonia solution.
When choosing a method, you need to proceed from your capabilities, as well as from the features of the product: its shape, sample, etc.
Recipes: "how to clean a silver chain to shine"
Despite a wide variety of methods, there are 2 most effective methods: mechanical and chemical.
• Silver refining with soda is considered one of the most popular mechanical methods. First, thoroughly wash the jewelry, and then apply a layer of soda on it and polish the surface using a soft cloth: flannel or wool. Finally, wash the metal again and dry it.
• It is easier to dry clean with ammonia. Just immerse silver for 15-20 minutes in a solution of 10% alcohol, rinse and polish with a soft cloth
These methods are ideal for those who do not want to spend their time and money on purchased care products for precious metals.
How to clean a silver chain to shine, and how to maintain its appearance
The most humane for decoration will be chemical purification from pollution, as well as further prevention:
• After wearing, wipe the jewelry;
• Store silver in a dry place, preferably in a box upholstered in cloth;
• Do not hold silver with other metals;
• Apply special products that form enamel on top of the metal. You can buy them at a jewelry store.
Remember: pollution prevention - the best method to combat them! Take care of your jewelry, and they will delight you with their beauty for a long time.
