Here’s a simple DIY method to bring your silver back to life using common household items. This method uses a natural chemical reaction—a redox reaction—to clean your jewelry without damaging it.
You’ll Need:
-
A glass or plastic bowl (non-metallic)
-
Aluminum foil (enough to line the bowl)
-
Hot water (around 50°C–60°C, not boiling)
-
Baking soda
-
Salt (optional, for faster reaction)
-
Your tarnished silver jewelry
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Line the bowl completely with aluminum foil (shiny side up works best).
-
Heat the water until it’s hot but not boiling.
-
Pour the water into the foil-lined bowl—enough to fully submerge your jewelry.
-
Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda per liter of water. Stir gently to dissolve. Some fizzing is normal.
-
Add 1 tablespoon of salt (optional) to accelerate the process.
-
Place your silver jewelry into the bowl, making sure it touches the foil.
-
Leave it for 2–10 minutes, depending on how tarnished the piece is. You may notice a rotten egg smell—that’s the hydrogen sulfide being released.
-
Remove the jewelry using a spoon or tongs and rinse with clean water.
-
Dry thoroughly using a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
Your silver should now be shining just like when you first got it!
The Science Behind It:
The chemical reaction that takes place is:
3Ag₂S (s) + 2Al (s) + 6H₂O (l) → 6Ag (s) + 2Al(OH)₃ (s) + 3H₂S (g)
In simple terms, aluminum acts as a reducing agent, helping convert the dark silver sulfide back into shiny metallic silver, while the aluminum itself oxidizes in the process.
Final Thoughts
Tarnish is a natural process, not a sign of poor quality. With simple care and easy maintenance, your silver jewelry can remain radiant for years to come. At our brand, we believe in making jewelry that’s made to be worn—not stored away—and with a little care, your favorite pieces will continue to shine every day.