Tarnished bracelets, necklaces and rings: make them shine again with these simple DIY remedies

Not only in summer, but all year round, it is nice to show off our necklaces, bracelets, rings and various types of costume jewelry (that we may also wear for weeks or months on end). The more longer we wear them - perhaps also when we take a bath or shower, when we go swimming in the pool or the sea - the more they will lose their original splendor, even getting tarnished. In most cases jewelry is damaged by oxidation, and they lose their lustre (they get tarnished).

For jewelry made from precious metals, cleaning them is a different topic. But for those made from less precious metals or alloys, it is possible to use some DIY tips to clean them properly.

Creativo

To clean jewelry:

• Delicate dish washing detergent: general cleaning can be done by immersing the pieces in a bowl of water with a few drops of dish washing soap for several minutes. This works with silver, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, niobium and gold-fill plating pieces. Use a soft cloth or soft sponge (even an old makeup one) to lightly rub the piece and rinse off with warm water. Air-dry the pieces or use a hair dryer (on a low temperature).
• In the case of copper and brass, you can also use white vinegar. Soak the jewelry in vinegar for 10 seconds, then wash it with dish washing soap and water. Rinse off well with cold water, and dry immediately with the help of a hair dryer - set at the lowest possible temperature.
• When it comes to anodized aluminum jewelry, never use metal cleaning creams (or DIY abrasive products). You can use dish washing soap as indicated above, or use lemon juice.
• If by chance, you want to take better care of your jewelry - especially chains - consider purchasing a small roller polisher (tumbler), which with just a little water and dish soap, can do wonders.

General precautions to take:

Whenever you remove jewelry, it is preferable to keep the pieces in airtight containers. A super cheap way to do this is with airtight plastic bags (ziplocs).

Another bit of advice is not to leave the pieces of 925 silver (sterling silver) on wooden surfaces: it seems that these surfaces have a slightly acid component that can tarnish the metal. And in all cases, it is always advisable not to leave jewelry, especially silver, in direct sunlight.

What is your favorite method to take care of your jewelry?