How to remove oxides from silver

Cleaning silver coins from greenery

After the first trips with a metal detector, the first coins begin to accumulate. After being in the ground for a long time, they need cleaning. Today we will look at one of the proven and perhaps one of the most gentle methods of cleaning silver. Cleaning silver coins from your greens pantry will no longer be a problem for you.

Cleaning silver coins with citric acid

This cleaning method is very simple and at the same time effective, and everything we need can be bought at any grocery store.

For cleaning we need:

  • citric acid (regular food grade, also known as food additive E330-E333)
  • cotton pads
  • cotton buds
  • distilled water (you can also use regular water)
  • soap
  • bath (you can use a nylon lid for jars)
  • plastic tweezers (if possible)
  • electronic scales (if possible)

If you already have the required set of “ingredients”, you can start cleaning the coins.

Cleaning silver coins. Step 1

We begin preparing the cleaning solution by weighing out the citric acid from the bag you bought in the store. We recommend using a solution in a proportion of 5-10 grams of acid per 100 ml of water. It is better to dilute the acid in warm or hot water, so the reaction will proceed faster. You can also keep the solution warm on a radiator all the time or if you have an unnecessary electric stove and heat-resistant laboratory glassware.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAXxp0wJmV8

After weighing citric acid on a scale, pour the required 5..6..7..8..9 or 10 grams into hot water. The solution is ready.

Dip a coin into the prepared hot solution for cleaning. You can dip a coin even with a coating of clay, because the acid will clean off the coating too. At this stage, it is good to have plastic tweezers on hand; they are convenient for turning over or removing the coin from the solution.

After immersion, air bubbles will begin to form on the surface of the coin - the reaction has begun. Dirt deposits and light greens will be the first to separate from the coin. After a few minutes, you can take out the coin and see how the process goes. With a cotton swab dipped in the solution, you can try to remove dirt and light greenery from the field of a silver coin.

The coin on the left has already been in solution, but the coin on the right has not yet. As you can see in the photo, the coin has both green growths and clay stains. We do not recommend cleaning such stains with a toothbrush. Yes, and we advise you to reduce any mechanical cleaning to zero if you do not have experience. It is very easy to damage a silver coin; you can also simply rub or scratch the field of the coin, which can reduce the selling price in the future.

If the coin is valuable, we advise you not to leave the reaction unattended and start cleaning with a 5% citric acid solution. This advice also applies to coins that simply have tarnish or clay stains. For example, such as on the orta from this article.

Step 2. Cotton pads for cleaning coins

In the list of necessary items, we indicated cotton pads, now it’s time to tell you what they are needed for. After the coin is removed from the solution, and large green growths remain on it, we need two cotton pads. The diameter of the discs allows them to be used even on thalers.

We take a bath, preferably a small one; we use a regular nylon lid for jars. Place a cotton pad as the first layer, then a coin, and cover the coin with another cotton pad. The discs can be pre-soaked or then simply poured with the prepared citric acid solution; they should be well soaked.

You can leave the coin in this form for several hours, keeping an eye on it from time to time and turning over the discs themselves. If the room is warm, you will need to add more solution when the cotton wool dries.

After some time, lifting the upper cotton pad, you will see that a coin mark has formed on it. Green oxides and dirt simply transfer from the field of the coin into the cotton pad. Cleaning actually happens on your own; you only need to change the disks as they become dirty.

If the coin area is small and the quantity is large, you can place two, three or four coins on the disk at once.

Cleaning silver coins. Step 3

If green growths remain on the coin’s field for a long time, you can change the solution from time to time or warm it up. This way the reaction will happen faster.

After you are satisfied with the result of cleaning, you need to wash the coin with soap and water to remove any remaining citric acid from the coin’s field.

We recommend this method for cleaning coins that can retain their stamp shine. We returned to this cleaning method after trying a special solution for cleaning silver coins. Its effect did not suit us, because the coin darkened and turned gray, and we had to clean it to a silver shine with soda (soda slurry).

Cleaning silver coins at home

Here is the result of cleaning a coin using this method. The coin was cleaned for about a day with a change of cotton pads and one change of a 7% citric acid solution (7 grams per 100 ml of water). In this way, it was possible not to damage the original stamp shine of the coin, which was preserved after three and a half centuries in the ground.

In this form, it fell into the ground in the distant and turbulent Middle Ages.

IMPORTANT! We hope our article will be useful to you and will help you clean many excellent silver coins. In turn, we do not insist that this method is the best and do not bear any responsibility for damaged coins when cleaning with citric acid. This article describes only our method and our experience, and the result may differ from any other.

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You can always read about finds of coins and treasures in the Coins section of our website.

Source: https://nahodki.top/chistka-serebrianykh-monet/

How to clean silver?

Silver is a metal that is as beautiful as it is capricious. It fades as it oxidizes naturally, or it can turn black quickly and unexpectedly. Sulfur, mercury, iodine and many other substances react with silver, causing undesirable changes in the appearance of the product. How to clean silver correctly? Mechanically removing the oxide film and part of the metal from the surface is not the best solution. How to leave precious silver atoms in their rightful place? There are such ways.

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The beauty of jewelry is spoiled by sweat and fat contamination. They can be easily removed with warm water and soap. In particularly advanced cases, dishwashing detergent will help. For prevention, you need to wash silver items at regular intervals.

Regardless of the method used to clean silver, two actions are always present:

  • preparation - the product is washed with warm water and soap and degreased with vinegar or alcohol;
  • the final stage - the cleaned metal is thoroughly rinsed in cold water, wiped and at the same time polished with flannel.

Some silver items are worn without taking them off. A chain with a cross, for example. When working with engines and petroleum equipment, the product may become contaminated with fuel oil, grease, etc. They are removed as follows: apply a small amount of butter to the silver and lightly rub it in your palms for 10 minutes (at the same time, your hands will be cleansed). Then wash with warm water and soap.

The fact that sunlight depresses the shine of silver has been noticed for a long time, which is why the metal is considered “night” or “lunar”. There is no mysticism here: atmospheric ozone, under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, reacts with the metal. To keep oxidation to a minimum, jewelry and cutlery are kept in tight cases, and for long-term storage, wrapped in food foil.

Removing sulfide patina

The main “culprit” for the darkening of the noble metal is silver sulfide, Ag2S. It is formed even at negligible concentrations of sulfur. And it is always present - in the form of hydrogen sulfide. The human body also releases sulfur and its various compounds. That is, the appearance of a sulfide film (patina) is a natural and inevitable process. When they say that it is necessary to clean silver from blackness, it mainly means the removal of this sulfide.

Attention: for combined products - with stones, niello, enamel, etc. - cleaning methods should be selected depending on the material of the insert!

The most accessible and safest remedy is citric acid: it will remove a light coating of patina. In a glass of boiling water you need to dissolve 25-30 g of citric acid, add a little food foil or stripped copper wire.

Place the product there and heat in a water bath for half an hour or boil for 15 to 30 minutes. Foil or wire is needed so that the copper or aluminum “pulls” the sulfur onto itself. You can do without them, but then the effect will be reduced.

6-9% food vinegar is suitable as a substitute for citric acid.

Grated potatoes are a gentle remedy. It contains things that they are afraid to bleach with other substances - for example, such elegant rings as in the photo below.

Ammonia (10% ammonium hydroxide, ammonia) is available in any home medicine cabinet. All operations are carried out in fresh air or with good ventilation, since the substance has a pungent odor. The products are wiped with a cotton swab dipped in ammonia. Small jewelry can be placed directly into the bottle and, shaking slightly, watch the cleaning process. Ammonia effectively removes not only sulfide, but also silver compounds with chlorine and bromine.

With the help of soda, you can tidy up even neglected items. The silver will be reduced to metal:

You will need:

  • glass or enamel dishes;
  • 1-2 sheets of food foil;
  • caustic soda (NaOH) or baking soda;
  • container for a water bath.

Place the foil in the dish so that the bottom and walls are covered with it. Pour soda diluted with boiling water (1 tablespoon per glass of water). Place silver items in the resulting solution and heat in a water bath - if the liquid foams slightly, it means the process is going correctly. The solution must be stirred with a wooden spatula so that all parts of the products come into contact with the aluminum. Why wooden? Iron can scratch soft silver. As a rule, the procedure takes no more than 20 minutes.

Weak gas evolution indicates the correct progress of the process

Cleaning with surface restoration

If the owner is sure that the product is of high quality, then hydrogen peroxide can be used. The effect is excellent - but only on pure silver. An admixture of copper (and even more so zinc) will cause the surface to be corroded. Peroxide can be used spot-on - to remove iodine stains, for example.

An old recipe. Our grandmothers knew how to clean silver at home and restore its shine. Without knowing it, they were preparing an aldehyde (which means “alcohol devoid of hydrogen”).

A little vodka or alcohol should be poured into a green copper basin, slightly warmed, stirring. The walls of the dishes will be cleaned - the oxide from them will turn into liquid. Products are placed in the resulting solution - instead of a dark film, their surface will be enriched with silver and shine.

To obtain aldehyde, oxidized copper wire can be used.

other methods

Sodium thiosulfate (a fixative for black and white photography) perfectly cleans silver, including bromine and iodine stains.

Hard bleaching - heat the product with a gas burner (without holding the flame over one area and without touching the clasp) and place it in battery acid for a few seconds. The surface will need to be sanded as microparticles of copper will be removed, leaving a rough finish. The method is not suitable for delicate items. Do not use more than 1-2 times.

Quick method for the office: Lightly rub the silver with a light eraser.

Table salt, not iodized, is good for brightening silver and pearls. Dissolve 1 tbsp. spoon in a glass of warm water and place the decoration there.

Some useful tips:

  • Products with a high copper content are first treated with Trilon-B (it is used to wash pipes in heating networks, clean bronze, etc.). Then any of the above methods is applied.
  • Alcohol and acid enhance each other’s effects, and you can add salt and a few drops of ammonia to the soda solution.
  • Bad neighbors for silver are rubber (contains volatile sulfur) and a first aid kit that contains bromine and iodine.
  • Do not put on jewelry immediately after cleaning - give it 2-3 days for the metal to be covered with a protective film. Or use a special silver passivator; you can buy it in jewelry stores.

Stylish things should be clean and well-groomed

Source: https://TheDifference.ru/kak-pochistit-serebro/

How to easily and quickly clean silver at home?

Silver is a royal metal that requires special care. Many people notice that over time, jewelry darkens - after a week or after a year. This can be explained by the simplest chemical reaction - the interaction of copper impurities contained in silver with the element of sweat - sulfur.

The higher the standard of silver, the less and slower it will darken. To prevent rapid deterioration of the metal, you should remove the jewelry during active activities, or purchase 999 or 875 samples in advance.

But if it does happen that the silver has darkened, then below we will tell you how to clean silver at home.

How to choose a cleaning method

When silver has acquired a dull color, it is possible to get rid of oxidation at home. You can choose a cleaning method based on the main factors:

  • metal sample;
  • additional inserts – precious and semi-precious stones, gilding, etc.;
  • product size;
  • how dark the decoration is.

Concentrated substances are best used for products made entirely of silver. If there are additional inserts - simple and non-aggressive substances. If the silver jewelry is very rare, you should contact a specialist.

If desired, you can purchase substances for metal processing in special stores. The most popular products with moderate effects are “Talisman”, “Silver Quick”, “Silbo”.

Also, it should be noted that silver cannot be cleaned with a hard cloth, since the metal is very soft and ductile.

How to clean quickly and effectively

You should carefully follow the instructions to clean silver at home quickly and effectively. Because it is so demanding, some cleaning techniques include precautions.

First, the fat produced by the sebaceous glands and dirt must be removed from the top layer of metal. This can be done quite quickly and effectively at home - pour water and some detergent into a plate (dishwashing liquid, sink cleaner, liquid soap, shower gel, etc.)

). The proportions are not important; even a weak soap solution will rid the item of the upper layers of dust and sebum. If there are any uneven spots or depressions, be sure to wash the jewelry with cotton wool or folded gauze, or a toothbrush to make it shine. After this, rinse the silver in clean water and dry.

You can simply rinse the chain, and place the jewelry with stones in a soapy solution for 5-10 minutes. Gilded silver is more finicky and you need to be careful with it. The preparatory stage will help you clean silver at home efficiently and eliminate blackness.

Ammonia

Ammonia quite effectively cleans silver of deposited oxidation and dirt. Lightly soiled jewelry can simply be wiped with a cotton swab soaked in ammonia.

For serious deposits, you will need a 10% substance, pour it into a small container and soak the silver for 10-15 minutes. Care should be taken as

ammonia has a very specific smell that should not be brought too close to the nasal mucosa. After the procedure, be sure to rinse the object and hands under water.

You can also clean silver using ammonia and toothpaste. Rub the mixture onto the metal and leave for 20-30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly under clean tap water. Form a thick ointment from chalk and ammonia, gently apply a thick layer to the object and leave for at least 35 minutes. If desired, you can additionally mix hydrogen peroxide with ammonia and soak the silver for 20 minutes. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the metal from the caustic solution.

Alcohol, salt, soda

You can clean silver with alcohol without any problems for various additional inserts and elements using the following methods.

  • Pour one liter of water into a container, add a few tablespoons of alcohol and hydrogen peroxide. The silver should lie in the solution for at least 20 minutes, after which the same amount of time in ordinary clean water.
  • Salt and soda together create an aggressive environment, which is great for cleaning high and low sterling silver. Dissolve a few tablespoons in a liter of water and boil the solution, along with the decorations, for 10 minutes.
  • Add 8 g cream of tartar and 2 tsp. salt in a liter of boiling water, lower the item for 20-25 minutes.

Soda and foil

To properly clean silver with baking soda and foil, it is important to follow the instructions.

  1. Stir several tbsp in 0.35 liters of water. l. soda
  2. Place over high heat and bring to a boil.
  3. Wrap the item partially in foil and immerse it in the solution for 20 minutes.

There is another method for cleaning jewelry with these substances.

  1. Make a small “plate” out of foil.
  2. Immerse the silver in it.
  3. Sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda.
  4. Pour boiling water in a gentle stream.
  5. If done correctly, a violent reaction will occur, after which it will be necessary to immerse the jewelry in clean water for 20 minutes.

Vinegar

Cleaning silver with vinegar does not involve major problems. You can simply dilute acetic acid with water in a ratio of 1:3 and immerse for 5-10 minutes. To clean silver in this way without harm to health, it is better not to take risks, but to use masks, glasses, and gloves.

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Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide perfectly cleans silver from dirt and small harmful substances. You can simply wipe the metal with a cotton swab with the solution, or fill it completely, leaving for 10 minutes. After this, clean the oxidized residues with a cotton swab.

Peroxide in combination with salt gives a very high-quality result, however, it is not recommended for gold-plated items. Mix proportions 5 to 1, hold for no more than 5 minutes.

Tooth powder or paste

Toothpaste or powder is considered a very effective means of cleaning silver from oxidation. But at the same time, the method is very rough, so it is suitable for simple decorations. Dilute the powder with an aqueous solution or purchase a standard white paste without additives. Polish with a soft cloth or a brush with soft bristles, without sudden movements or strong pressure. Rinse the silver under running tap water or in a plate, and then dry with a soft cloth.

Acids

To clean silver at home quickly and effectively, you can use citric or acetic acid. The acid must be dissolved in relation to water 1:7. Place the resulting solution on a low heat or in a slow cooker, and lower a small copper wire into it. As soon as the substance boils, place a silver object for 40 minutes.

If the silver is not very dull, you can simply soak a soft cloth in vinegar and wipe the dirty areas. For household items, it is worth trying sulfuric or formic acid. It is enough to boil silver for 30 minutes in a 5% content of caustic substances. Be sure to use gloves and a protective mask, and carry out the procedure at home, with windows and doors open.

Sparkling water

Well-known carbonated water - Coke, Pepsi, Sprite and Fanta - contains phosphoric acid, which effectively affects stubborn plaque. To clean silver, just boil it over high heat in one of the carbonated drinks. 15 minutes will be enough, because... the acid is very effective at corroding oxidized material.

Household chemicals

Household chemicals are always at hand in any home, so you can quickly clean silver with regular powder or window cleaner. In the first case, it will be enough to boil the decoration in a concentrated solution of the powder mixture for 10 minutes. You can simply wipe the silver with a window cleaner, as it contains active disintegrating particles.

How to clean gold plated silver

Gilded silver can be very easily damaged by aggressive substances or a hard brush. It is best to prepare a very soft cloth in advance.

To properly clean gold and silver from dirt and dust, you will need to wipe the jewelry with a weak vinegar solution or alcohol. Use dry cloths to wipe off excess moisture, and then place in dark strong beer for 30-40 minutes. Rinse the jewelry under running water until the smell disappears completely.

Another effective way to remove plaque is to soak for 40 minutes in a solution of water - 2 tbsp. l., liquid soap - 1 tbsp. l., and ammonia - 6-8 drops.

Stubborn stains can be removed from gold-plated silver jewelry using several methods.

  1. Dissolve 1/8 of grated laundry soap in boiling water, cool and add 6 drops of ammonia. Beat everything to a stable foam and immerse the silver.
  2. 1 tbsp. Pour ammonia, water and peroxide into a container. Using a cotton swab or toothbrush, depending on the resistance of oxidation and the size of the jewelry itself, clean the metal until the plaque is completely dissolved.

How to clean silver with stones

First, to clean silver with stone jewelry, you will have to thoroughly disinfect it. Mix a few drops of ammonia with a glass of warm water and immerse for 30 minutes. After this, you can use one of the popular methods.

  1. Lipstick, no matter what color, will help very quickly remove darkening and dullness from silver. You should thoroughly lubricate the object in all indentations and bulges, and then remove the lipstick with a flannel cloth. You will have to be patient, the process is labor-intensive, long, but effective.
  2. Silver with pearl stones is very easy to clean using a small linen bag. You need to add 3 tbsp. l. coarse salt and immerse the silver. Wash in the washing machine for no more than 30 minutes. Tie the bag tightly, you can put it in an additional one so that everything does not tear during washing. With such cleaning, the jewelry should contain the following stones: emerald, diamond, aquamarine, garnet, rock crystal, topaz, citrine, amethyst, cacholong, howlite.
  3. Grate one raw potato on a coarse grater, put silver jewelry or household items in it. Pour boiling water over and leave for no more than 3 hours. This option is suitable if the jewelry contains: diamond, agate, peridot, aventurine, rock crystal, diamond, jade, agate, pearls, opal, tourmaline, selenite.
  4. Mix dry crumbly chalk with hydrogen peroxide, ammonia and a small amount of water to form a semi-liquid slurry. Immerse the silver jewelry completely and leave for 5-10 minutes. This method is suitable if the jewelry contains the following stones: malachite, moonstone, amber, turquoise, bloodstone and others.

Overall, silver is very quick and easy to clean at home. At the same time, it was noticed that the lower the sample, the worse the oxidized substance lags behind. The highest standard of silver, 999, allows for darkening and blackening, but in very small quantities, since the metal contains a tiny amount of copper impurities. To avoid wear and tear on your jewelry, be sure to remove your silver when going to the gym, doing active activities, or doing any physical exercise that will lead to excessive sweating.

about how to clean silver.

Source: https://family-journal.ru/kak-pochistit-serebro/

How to clean silver at home

Silver has long been considered a noble metal and is valued for its properties. Since ancient times, coins have been minted from it, weapons have been made, and applied to wounds to heal them. This metal is used in the production of photographic film for film cameras, and silverware is known for its antibacterial properties. And today silver is used in industry, medicine and in the manufacture of jewelry.

Over time, silver items darken and need to be cleaned periodically to restore their original color.

Why does silver darken?

Pure silver is a chemically low-active metal, practically does not interact with oxygen and almost does not oxidize. However, in its pure form, silver is very soft, easily deformed, and is used extremely rarely in industry.

Alloys of silver with harder metals, often copper, are used in production. It is these impurities that oxidize and become covered with a dark coating. The more hard metals in the alloy, the faster and more active the oxidation occurs and the more often the product will have to be cleaned.

In addition, exposure to an aggressive environment accelerates the darkening: interaction with sulfur causes the formation of argentum sulfide, leading to darkening of the metal. Sulfur (hydrogen sulfide) can be found in the air, sweat of humans and animals.

Silver samples

Precious metal hallmark tables may vary from country to country. In France, Germany, Russia and the CIS, the metric silver standard system is used:

Try Impurity g Silver g Where is it used?
960 40 960 Jewelry and highly artistic products.
925 75 925 Jewelry, interior elements, cutlery, memorable signs, coins.
875 125 875 Interior elements, jewelry, dishes.
830 170 830 Inexpensive jewelry, cutlery.
800 200 800 Cutlery.

The table shows the most common types of samples. There are other samples, the highest is 999.

How to clean silver at home

In workshops, silver items are cleaned by grinding. You can clean silver at home using alkaline and acidic agents.

Salt and soda

  • Dissolve 2 tsp in a glass of water. table salt, leave the silver in this solution overnight. To enhance the effect after salt treatment, you can boil the product in a soda solution for about 10 minutes - 1 tbsp. soda per glass of water. Silver is rinsed with clean water and wiped.
  • Add 1 tbsp to a glass of water. table salt, boil the silver item in this solution for 15 - 20 minutes. Rinse, wipe.
  • Dissolve soda in water at the rate of 1 tbsp. per glass of water. Dip a piece of aluminum foil into the solution or wrap it around the silver. Boil everything for 20 minutes. Rinse and wipe the product.

Cleaning silver with acid

9% vinegar removes dark deposits well. Dip the silver in slightly warmed vinegar for 15-20 minutes, or soak a soft cloth in it and rub the silver item.

Citric acid can also be used for a cleaning solution. For a glass of water you will need 50 g of citric acid. Boil the product in an acidic solution for 15 minutes. Rinse, wipe.

Coca Cola

Boil the silver item in a container with Coca-Cola drink for 5 minutes. Rinse with water and wipe.

Mechanical method

For the mechanical cleaning method, toothpastes, powders and GOI paste are suitable. The paste is squeezed out in the form in which it is sold, and the powder is diluted with water to a paste-like consistency.

The composition is applied to the brush and the product is cleaned, passing each section several times.

Features of cleaning silverware

A layer of dark patina develops over time on silverware and cutlery. At home, the described methods for cleaning silver are suitable for removing it. But if the dishes have been in contact with grease, they must first be washed with dishwashing detergent or a concentrated soap solution.

If the dishes have a carved ornament or engraving, it is recommended to soak them in a soap solution at a temperature of 50℃ for half an hour before washing.

In addition to the above agents, sodium thiosulfate, a salt of sodium and thiosulfuric acid, is effective. This drug is sold in pharmacies. Add 10 ml of sodium thiosulfate to 30 ml of water, moisten a soft cloth in this solution and rub the silver.

This method gives a quick result - the dishes are cleaned of patina and acquire the color characteristic of silver.

Bottom line

The oxidation of silver is caused by many factors: increased air humidity, the content of sulfur-containing compounds in it, changes in the human body. However, you can restore the original appearance of silver at home on your own. The most effective option is the one with aluminum foil.

Source: https://ru-poleznye-sovety.info/domashnie-khitrosti/kak-pochistit-serebro-v-domashnikh-usloviyakh.html

Clean silver at home | How to clean silver

When purchasing jewelry made from precious metals, we expect that their unique appearance will not deteriorate even over time. And what an unpleasant surprise a darkened silver ring becomes! Although you shouldn’t be upset: this reaction of silver is quite natural and can be easily corrected. To return the product to its former noble appearance, you just need to know a few rules on how to clean silver .

How to clean silver

Over time, even perfectly pure silver is prone to darkening. The reason for this is that this metal is able to easily react with hydrogen sulfide present in the air. As a result of this reaction, a dark-colored coating appears on the product - silver oxide. You can clean silver at home in the following simple ways:

  • Wash the silver product with warm water with the addition of baking soda: 50 grams per liter of water. You can simply wash the silver with soapy water, or you can use household detergents (but not bleach) for cleaning. To a liter of detergent or soap solution you need to add a tablespoon of ammonia. After this, you need to rinse the product and wipe dry with a soft cloth.

  • Silver items can first be washed in soap and water to remove grease deposits, and then wiped with a cotton swab, having previously moistened it in a strong solution of thiosulfate (sodium hyposulfite) in the ratio: one part hyposulfite to three parts water. As a result of such manipulations, sodium hyposulfite will interact with silver oxide, as a result of which the heavily darkened silver will lighten.
  • We often clean silver at home using our grandmothers' recipes. Thus, potatoes are considered the most tried and tested “folk method”. Silver jewelry or utensils should be immersed in cold water with chopped raw potatoes. If you hold it like this for several hours, the product will gradually lighten, and the remaining plaque can be easily removed with a sponge or cloth.

An ordinary potato will make your rings and earrings sparkle again

  • Cleaning silver in this way is also effective: add a tablespoon of baking soda and a few pieces of ordinary food foil to one liter of boiling water. By dipping a piece of silver jewelry or tableware into it for a few minutes, you can immediately notice how even a very blackened piece of silver begins to sparkle. You can also line the bottom of the container with food foil, place silver on it, add boiling water and leave overnight: the result will pleasantly please the owner of the silver item.

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Foil will help restore shine to tarnished silver items.

Line the bottom of the container with foil

Pour boiling water and put the product there overnight

Or just boil silver together with pieces of foil

For greater effectiveness, you can also add baking soda.

  • But you can clean silver spoons and other silver tableware like this: first fry the dishes in the oven, and then boil them in a simple solution of 400 grams of water, 25 grams of salt and 10 grams of so-called cream of tartar. Of course, after such manipulations the dishes will need to be polished, but this will not be difficult at all, and the result will definitely be excellent.
  • Cleaning silver at home , if the item is made of copper alloys with nickel and additives of zinc, iron or manganese (nickel silver or cupronickel), must be done in a special way. Especially with drawings applied to the product.
  1. First, objects made of silver alloy must be degreased;
  2. Wash with soapy water;
  3. Then place in a zinc bowl with salted water;
  4. Leave it like this for several hours.
  5. You can also use a simple galvanized bucket for this procedure.
  • You can renew your silver rings using a fairly simple, but at the same time, effective method. You just need to clean the product with a toothbrush and regular tooth powder. The decoration will again become bright and light.
  • You can also use the secret recipe of jewelers: place a piece of zinc in a glass or glazed vessel, also put precious jewelry in it, and then pour a solution of hot water and laundry soda on top of the contents (3 teaspoons of soda per half liter of water). Then hold the silver jewelry for 5 minutes and wipe. Your ring, chain, earrings or brooch will become clean and shiny again. The only caution is to handle caustic soda carefully, which, if it comes into contact with the eyes or mucous membranes, can cause irritation or even burn the skin. Therefore, hands should be washed thoroughly after using caustic.
  • Having mastered the science of how to clean silver, it is important to remember the need to properly care for silver items, which will preserve their appearance for a long time. Of course, the need to clean silver will not disappear in any case, but it will need to be done much less often. For example, silver jewelry should be stored in a closed box in a dry place with normal humidity levels. For example, a bathroom or a cool corridor are not the best places to leave a precious metal product there for a long time. Simply when exposed to moisture and in contact with air, even the best silver will turn black.

Keep silver spoons and forks wrapped in cellophane to protect them from moisture and scratches.

Ammonia

  • Each family has its own secret on how to clean silver. For example, many people use ammonia After all, it can restore shine and shine to silver if you mix it with chalk to a paste, apply the solution to the product and rinse with water. All that remains is to wipe it dry with a soft cloth.
  • Before you start cleaning silver with ammonia, you need to hold the product in a solution of warm water and soap. You need to mix ammonia with water (one part alcohol to ten parts water). You need to put silver in the already prepared solution and leave it there for fifteen to twenty minutes, which depends on the degree of contamination of the surface. All that remains is to rinse the decoration, dry it and rub it until shiny with cloth or flannel.

Add ammonia to a container of water

Place the decoration in the solution and remove it after 20 minutes

  • If you regularly care for silver items, then all you need to do is soak them in a soapy solution, rinse well, dry and polish with suede. But it is not recommended to use a rough sponge or abrasive substance to clean silver. These materials may cause micro scratches to the product. Moreover, often as a result of this, the silver can tarnish so much that the flaw can be eliminated only by professional polishing.

 Hydrogen peroxide

  • clean silver very quickly, economically and effectively hydrogen peroxide. However, you need to be very careful when cleaning silver with peroxide. Although peroxide has a good effect on the process of reducing gold and silver, at the same time, such a solution easily reacts with many chemical elements. We do not know what is in the composition of the metal from which the jewelry is made, which is considered silver, and instead of the desired result, you can get an indelible coating on the silver. Therefore, it is better not to experiment and generally refuse to clean silver jewelry at home using hydrogen peroxide.

On topic: Blue wallpaper in interior design

Only use hydrogen peroxide if you are 100% sure the item is silver

Ammonia

  • You can often find advice to clean silver with ammonia . This is the same option as cleaning with ammonia, which is an ammonia water solution. It physiologically affects the human body with a sharp, strong odor. Ammonia irritates the nasal mucosa at the level of specific receptors, stimulates the respiratory and vasomotor centers of the brain, causing rapid breathing and increased blood pressure. Therefore, it is better to use ammonia right away. Its cleansing effect on silver or items made from this metal is due to its reaction with acids on the surface of the jewelry and neutralizing them. As a result of this action, the plaque on the metal is cleaned without any problems and without loss of its properties. The main way to properly clean silver: before using any chemicals (soda, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, ammonia), you need to put the metal product in a soapy water solution for a certain time, then rinse well, which is also important.
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Lemon acid

  • Low sterling silver can be cleaned with citric acid or lemon juice. You need to put the silver item in such an acidic solution for just a few minutes. After this, all you have to do is wipe the product with a dry soft cloth, and the metal will become bright again and the darkening will disappear.

  • To care for 925 sterling silver, you need to stock up on Silbertauschbader. Although, in the absence of this drug, you can buy another special silver cleaner that is suitable for such a test.
  • If you wear sterling silver jewelry very rarely and do not intend to wear it in the near future, it is recommended to wrap it in flannel or other soft cloth and store it separately. When performing household work, even when dealing with household chemicals, as well as when using cosmetics, silver jewelry must be removed, which will protect it from all kinds of damage or simple darkening. Caring for silver does not require excessive time and excessive effort, but with proper attention, your favorite ring, earrings, chain and pendant will delight you with a radiant look for much longer, without requiring grueling cleaning in return.

  • There are many popular tips on how to clean silver with stones , for which not all of them are suitable. The best option is to use a special cleaner for silver items. You can clean a product with stone in it and not be afraid of the appearance of any plaque or darkening. It covers the product and the stone with a protective microlayer, invisible to the naked eye. This way your silver will shine like new, which will certainly affect the quality of your entire life.

Photo

Apply a special silver cleaner to a damp soft cloth

Wipe the product thoroughly

Rinse under running water

And wipe dry again with a soft cloth.

You can use toothpaste. The scheme is the same

You can use a toothbrush to clean your jewelry.

Views: 11292

Source: https://ladyzest.com/kak-chistit-serebro/

How to clean silver at home | Blog Comfy

Everyone knows the modest charm of this precious metal. Graceful glass holders, blackened grandmother’s earrings and cutlery polished for the holiday delight the eye.

Silver was valued higher than gold back in the days of Ancient Egypt. And today its popularity is difficult to overestimate. Silver products are given as gifts for the New Year, birthdays, and February 14, Valentine's Day, even for no reason.

The word “silver” goes back to Sanskrit: literally “argenta” means “light”. And today we will tell you how to clean silver so that it becomes light again.

Silver is worth its weight in gold

Exquisite jewelry made of precious metals is in demand among beautiful female representatives. Silver adds a touch of flair without emptying your pocket.

The largest silver nugget weighs 1420 kilograms. It was found in Chile

In addition, the beneficial properties of the metal have a positive effect on health. It has long been no secret that placing a silver product in a jug of water makes the water healing and has an antimicrobial effect. A silver chain, for example, stabilizes blood pressure and promotes wound healing. And many medicines and medical instruments contain this precious metal.

However, when reacting with air, silver products lose their original shine. And all because pure silver is fragile. For strength, they use so-called sterling silver - an alloy of silver and copper or zinc. An unpleasant coating on jewelry and things also appears from improper handling.

Factors contributing to the darkening of silver:

  • high humidity
  • sweat
  • cosmetics and medicines containing sulfur
  • low quality silver

Here are some simple ways to extend the life of silver jewelry and silverware:

  • store in a dry place, preferably in a box with a soft cloth inside
  • Wrap cutlery in foil for long-term storage
  • place bags with silver items to absorb moisture from shoes
  • remove jewelry when taking a bath and washing dishes
  • When cooking in the kitchen, also use gloves
  • do not allow metal to come into contact with cosmetics, perfumes and medications

If trouble happens, the silver has darkened, listen to our recommendations.

Classic method of cleaning silver

For valuable antique jewelry in advanced cases, professional silver cleaning products are most effective. Branded stores offer them in the form of solutions or napkins soaked in a special substance. Both of them do an excellent job of removing blackness and tarnish, returning expensive products to their former pristine purity. And the protective layer they form prevents subsequent oxidation.

Folk remedies against plaque

People, wondering how to clean silver, have found effective and budget-friendly options. We've tested them, so we can safely say that they work.

Trick with baking soda and foil

If you really want to get a “brilliant” option without much effort, this method is for you. Cover a deep plate with foil, add baking soda, lower the decorations and pour boiling water over it. The result is immediate.

For particularly complex contaminants, sodium bicarbonate can be used in three ways:

  1. A mixture of soda and water. Combine 0.5 tsp. water with 1 tsp. baking soda and using a soft cloth, gently clean your silverware with the resulting mixture.
  2. Soda baths. Add 1 tbsp. l. soda per liter of boiling water. Dip the products into the solution for 20–30 minutes, rinse with clean water, dry and rub with a soft cloth.
  3. Boiling. In an aluminum pan, dilute a couple of tablespoons of soda in a liter of water. Keep the jewelry in boiling water for about 10 minutes and you will be surprised by the shine of the jewelry.

Ammonia for shine

Dissolve half a glass of ammonia and a glass of warm water in a bowl. Lower the silver for 10-15 minutes. The blackness will disappear and the original shine of the products will return.

"Banana" approach

Grind banana peels in a blender. And rub the tarnished decoration with the resulting pulp. And use the pulp to make something tasty. For example, a lush banana omelette or pancakes, ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Potato broth

The method works for unblackened silver. Boil the potatoes in a saucepan (and for dinner, as an option, bake them with bacon). Remove the vegetable, cover the bottom with foil and dip the products into the resulting broth. Keep it on the fire for 15–20 minutes, wait until it cools down. Rinse and dry the silver.

Magic eraser

A simple method where the eraser is used for its intended purpose. Erase the blackness from the products in the same way as you erase a drawing on paper.

Carbonated option

One of the non-standard ways to clean silver is with the help of the beloved (and so harmful: so much sugar!) Coca-Cola drink.

It is enough to boil the blackened jewelry in it for 10 minutes. The cleaning problem will be solved due to the significant content of orthophosphoric acid in the carbonated drink. Don’t forget to secure the result by rinsing the product under running water and wiping it dry.

Lemon is a universal remedy

Darkening can be easily removed with a solution of citric acid or lemon juice applied to the precious metal and carefully removed with a soft cloth.

Dentifrice

The method is convenient for cleaning jewelry with small parts. An old toothbrush soaked in water will do the job just fine. Moreover, you can use both tooth powder and toothpaste. Rinse and wipe the product - be sure.

On duty - lipstick

An unusual option. And the color and composition of lipstick do not affect the result. Apply lipstick to a soft cloth, rub it on the silver, then rinse with warm water and wipe dry.

Table vinegar

Heat the table vinegar to 50–60 degrees, remove the dishes from the heat and immerse the tarnished items in it for 20–30 minutes. If you are not satisfied with the result, repeat the procedure. Be sure to rinse things and dry them with a flannel cloth.

Original options

The original ways to deal with tarnished precious metal are amazing. The positive effects of liquid dishwashing detergent, window cleaning liquid, Alka-Seltzer tablets (an anti-inflammatory drug), curdled milk, ordinary tomato paste and even egg yolks have been tested from my own experience.

Products with stones. How to clean

Silver jewelry with gems is very difficult to care for. They are quite easy to damage. To avoid trouble, choose cleaning methods based on the type of gemstone in the jewelry.

The cleaning algorithm is traditional: immerse the product in heated water for a few minutes, clean it carefully, then rinse with warm water and polish dry with a flannel.

But the means for cleaning stones are different. Washing powder effectively cleans aquamarines, sapphires and emeralds. Dilute a teaspoon of the substance in 100 ml of water and use an old toothbrush. Use soap instead of powder for turquoise, opal, moonstone, malachite. But clean apatites and agates with alcohol using a regular cotton swab. While amber will sparkle from a napkin with chalk.

Antique silver cleaning

Antique precious things need to be treated with care. You should not experiment with original methods without carefully studying the composition of metal products.

Silver turned green 

This indicates a low standard of metal with a large admixture of copper. She turns green. You can get rid of copper oxide using a 10% solution of Trilon B powder, which is quite popular in medicine, or 6% vinegar. After the greenery has disappeared, use any non-aggressive cleaning products.

 Silver utensils with brown spots 

Try removing copper oxide with a 10% solution of acetic or citric acid. You will get good results from immersing the products in the same ammonia solution. But be extremely careful, the last procedure is unsafe.

Cleaning cupronickel 

Cupronickel in its pure form (an alloy of copper and nickel) is perfectly bleached using traditional methods. But the trouble is that modern “cupronickel” is MNC, an alloy of copper, nickel and zinc.

And this alloy is called nickel silver, which is necessarily silvered to get rid of the metallic taste. So, boiling, any powders and products with chlorine are contraindicated for such cutlery.

We recommend washing them in warm soapy water and then placing them in a galvanized bucket of salt water. The reaction of zinc with copper will remove plaque from devices and preserve their shine for a long time.

 Useful tips

As you can see, there are many ways to clean silver. It is important to remember the following:

  1. Gilded silver cannot be cleaned with alcohol or acids. Only soapy water and soda
  2. The lower the metal standard, the gentler the cleaning of silver items should be.
  3. Do not use dry scouring powders or hard toothbrushes to clean silver.
  4. Filigree and blackened silver cannot be cleaned. In this case, blackness is its charm and sophistication.

We hope that our simple tips will help preserve the original appearance of such a beautiful precious metal.

Source: https://blog.comfy.ua/kak-pochistit-serebro-v-domashnikh-usloviyakh/

Why does silver darken?

Silver darkens when interacting with compounds containing sulfur. When interacting with oxygen, a chemical reaction occurs called silver oxidation. It contributes to the appearance of a dark coating on the surface of silver items, changing their color. Often objects made of such metal turn black if they come into contact with sweat containing sulfuric acid salts. When silver and sweat come into contact, a chemical reaction occurs, leading to oxidation of the metal jewelry.

Blackening of the metal is enhanced by impurities. Copper is often added to silver, which forms dark-colored copper sulfide upon contact with sulfur. The lower the sample, the more copper it contains. The human body is capable of excreting not only sulfur, but also phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and uric acid. Any of these impurities can affect the color of a silver item.

With severe anxiety and stress, the composition of the skin secretions often changes, causing the metal to darken. The rapid blackening of the chain hanging on the neck is explained by the fact that there are a large number of sebaceous glands on the chest. Earrings blacken more intensely in those places where they come into contact with the earlobes.

Sometimes only the outer side of a silver cross darkens. This indicates that there is high humidity in the room. Water, in contact with oxygen, leads to the appearance of plaque. In addition, the metal is negatively affected by caring cosmetics, peeling vegetables, and hand washing.

Cleaning methods

There are various ways to clean silver. The most effective include the following.

Toothpaste and powder

Toothpaste or powder contains abrasive polishing microparticles - sand, chalk, etc. They effectively remove darkening on metal without scratching it. Squeeze 1 tsp into a small cup. paste and place the product completely into it. If the object is large, for example, a spoon, squeeze the paste onto it and hold it for 2-3 minutes. Then take a toothbrush with soft bristles and rub the paste. Finally, the silver item is washed with water.

To clean silver, use tooth powder. Take 2 tbsp of this substance. l. and dilute in 1 tbsp. l. water. The resulting thick mass is applied to the darkest place and left for 5 minutes. Clean the product with a toothbrush, rinse with water and wipe with a towel.

Soda

This substance helps to quickly remove dark deposits on metal. To clean silver with soda, pour 4 tbsp into a ceramic bowl. l. powder and pour in water. The resulting solution should be thick, with a consistency reminiscent of sour cream. A silver item is placed in it and left for 15 minutes.

During this time, the soda becomes hard and cracks. The metal is then washed and cleaned with a toothbrush. To enhance the effect, it is recommended to add 5-6 drops of lemon juice to the solution, no more. Otherwise, the silver product may completely change color due to the oxidizing agent.

Citric and other acids

You can clean metal at home with citric acid. For this, 1 tsp. The powder is poured into 100 ml of water and a silver item is dipped into the resulting product. Leave for 50 minutes. Then the decoration is rinsed with water and dried. This method is best used for cleaning high-quality products.

To prepare the following solution for cleaning metal, take 150 g of citric acid and pour it into 0.5 liters of water. A silver item is placed in the prepared solution. Boil it in a water bath for 25 minutes. The decoration is cooled and wiped with a soft cloth.

For this method, take 9% vinegar, which is poured into a pan and heated. Silver is placed in it for 20 minutes. Then take it out and polish it with a woolen cloth.

Ammonia

Ammonia is a good product for cleaning silver because... it quickly eliminates oxidation.

Method 1:

  • mix 2 tsp. ammonia, 5 ml of detergent and 100 ml of water;
  • lower the chain into the solution and cover the pan with a lid;
  • leave the product until it becomes light;
  • remove the decoration, wash and dry.

Method 2:

  • take toothpaste, ammonia and water in equal proportions, mix;
  • lower the chain into the solution;
  • wait 30 minutes;
  • Clean the product with a soft-bristle toothbrush.

Method 3:

  • take ammonia and hydrogen peroxide in equal proportions and mix;
  • silver jewelry is placed in this liquid;
  • The container is tightly closed with a lid, since the vapors of the ammonia solution are poisonous and have an extremely unpleasant odor.
  • the product is kept in the solution for 20 minutes;
  • washed and dried.

If you need to clean silver at home with hydrogen peroxide, you should be aware that this substance can react with various chemical compounds. As a result, the silver becomes dull and a dark coating appears.

Salt

Salt is a good way to clean silver from blackness at home. To do this, combine 30 g of salt, 0.5 liters of hot water and 15 g of citric acid. Add silver to the solution and leave for 25 minutes. The product is washed, dried and polished. To achieve better effectiveness, the silver item can be pre-boiled for 15 minutes.

Foil for cleaning silver

Tarnished silver is often cleaned using foil. It contains aluminum, which neutralizes sulfides - sulfur compounds of the metal. As a result, the black plaque is destroyed.

Method 1:

  • Cover the bottom of the pan with foil and pour 4-5 cm of water;
  • put 3-4 tbsp into the liquid. l. soda or citric acid;
  • place silver jewelry in the solution;
  • put the pan on the fire;
  • bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes;
  • if such a need arises, the procedure time is increased.

Method 2:

  • cut off a sheet of foil and place a silver item on it;
  • fill the product with 3-4 tbsp. l. salt and add 1 tsp. water;
  • the sheet is rolled into an envelope and placed on the bottom of the pan;
  • prepare a soap solution using 1 tsp. shavings of laundry soap and 200 ml of water;
  • pour the prepared solution into a container with foil and bring to a boil;
  • Remove the pan from the heat, cool the water and remove the silver.

Method 3:

  • take a deep plate;
  • line the inside of the container with foil and fold the edges with it;
  • put a silver item in a plate and cover it with baking soda;
  • add boiling water and wait 10 minutes;
  • The silver is taken out, washed in water and wiped dry with a towel.

Potato

To remove dark plaque from silver, it is first washed in warm water and soap and treated with a toothbrush. Then the product is thoroughly rinsed. Raw potatoes are grated and silver is added to the resulting pulp. Leave for 20 minutes, then remove the product, rinse and wipe with a piece of woolen cloth. You can place a silver item in the water in which potatoes were boiled for 15 minutes, and then polish it until it shines.

Pomade

Lipstick is the most effective way to remove blackness from metal. It contains titanium dioxide and a large amount of fat. Under the influence of dioxide, plaque is quickly cleared, and fat helps polish the product to a shine.

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For the procedure, take a cotton pad and any tube of lipstick. Lubricate the decoration with it and rub it until it squeaks. Silver begins to brighten almost instantly. The only drawback of this method is that you can only clean objects with a smooth surface.

Olive oil

You should use unrefined olive oil, which contains acids that quickly destroy plaque. Oil is poured into the container so that it covers the silver items halfway. The liquid is boiled for 15 minutes. The product is removed and washed with water. Then the silver is placed in a small container and filled with water and lemon juice, taken in equal quantities. Leave for 3-4 hours. Then the product is removed and wiped with a soft cloth.

Silver cleaning eraser

You can remove dark deposits on silver using an ordinary eraser. To do this, carefully rub the soft side over the contaminated area for 4-5 minutes.

The nuances of cleaning products with stones, gilding and other features

If a silver piece of jewelry that has a precious stone has turned black, you should choose the right cleaning agent:

  • emerald and sapphire are highly dense, so they use washing powder or mild shampoo;
  • moonstone and turquoise are also cleaned with mild shampoo and laundry soap;
  • topaz and ruby ​​- shampoo, but should not be exposed to hot water.

Glycerin can be used for any type of stone. Stones that are particularly sensitive cannot be cleaned with acids and alkalis. They damage their structure.

Blackened silver is removed from plaque with hydrogen peroxide or ammonia. Foil and soda show high performance. This is explained by the fact that blackened silver contains substances whose interaction with such irritants shows a good effect.

If the silver has a matte surface, it is better to use the services of specialists for cleaning. Almost all products that are used at home cause severe harm to such a product.

Silver plated with gold must be cleaned with extreme care. Such products are treated with alcohol solutions. You can immerse silver in beer for 25 minutes. A soap solution to which 2-3 drops of ammonia is added gets rid of dark plaque well.

You can clean a watch with a silver bracelet at home using microfiber or suede. Apply a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or ammonia to a piece of cloth and wipe the product. If you need to clean radiated silver, do not use products containing ammonia. Mechanical cleansing is prohibited, so you cannot use a toothbrush. For the procedure, take ordinary glycerin.

What to do to prevent silver from tarnishing

To prevent silver items from tarnishing, they must be stored correctly. If there are several silver objects, they are placed separately from each other, otherwise the metal may be scratched, and dirt can enter through the damage. It is not recommended to shower wearing silver jewelry. Due to chlorinated water, they become covered with a dark coating.

It is also prohibited to engage in sports while wearing silver items. In this case, the human body produces a lot of sweat, which contains sulfur. Its interaction with metal leads to the appearance of blackness. Do not store silver near heating devices or expose them to direct sunlight. Because of this, it darkens.



Source: https://uborka-v-dome.ru/pravila-chistki/serebra-v-domashnih-usloviyah.html

Cleaning silver with vinegar - 3 simplest and most effective methods

To clean silver at home, you can use either apple cider vinegar or table vinegar. Each of them removes dark stains well, giving the product shine. To clean heavily tarnished silver, it is preferable to choose 10 percent vinegar.

A 6 percent acetic acid solution can handle light stains.

You can clean silver with vinegar without damaging its structure. This product effectively removes plaque, returning the product to its original appearance.

In order not to damage the valuable metal, it is necessary to strictly observe the proportions when preparing the cleaning solution and strictly follow the instructions.

When tarnished, silver combines with sulfur to form black silver sulfide. Because of this, the product darkens. To restore it to its former beauty, it is necessary to remove silver sulfide from its surface. Acetic acid copes with this task effectively - it comes into contact with silver sulfide, splitting it, without damaging the metal itself (subject to all cleaning rules).

Pros and cons of cleaning silver with vinegar solution

Cleaning precious metal with vinegar has a number of advantages:

  • does not take much time;
  • effectively eliminates both mild and severe darkening;
  • does not require effort;
  • does not require financial investment (vinegar can be found in every home);
  • restores shine to jewelry.

Despite a number of advantages, this method of cleaning silver products also has one significant drawback - it is unsafe. Vinegar belongs to the group of aggressive solutions, so it is necessary to pay special attention to safety and strictly observe precautions.

Precautionary measures

To return silver jewelry to its original appearance, and not cause harm to the product and your own health, you must follow safety precautions:

  • carry out the procedure only in personal protective equipment (gloves, medical mask, preventing toxic fumes from entering the respiratory system);
  • 70% vinegar must not be used in its pure form (dilute according to the recipe);
  • After cleaning, the product must be thoroughly rinsed in clean water.

After treatment, you should not immediately use the silver item for its intended purpose, otherwise it will darken again (a few days after cleaning, a protective layer will form on the surface of the silver, preventing it from changing color).

Do not use pure 70% vinegar for cleaning!

How to clean silver with vinegar

Immediately before cleaning silver items, it is recommended to remove grease and dirt from their surface. To do this, it is recommended to immerse the metal in a saline solution for 2 minutes. This way you can quickly get rid of blackening and give the decoration an aesthetic appearance. Below are the most effective and simple methods for cleaning silver using vinegar.

Cleaning with vinegar and baking soda to remove light stains

To prepare the solution you will need:

  • vinegar - ½ cup;
  • soda – 2 tbsp. l.

Combine the ingredients, stirring thoroughly until smooth. Immerse the silver in the resulting solution and leave for 3 hours. After the specified time has passed, rinse the product in clean water and wipe dry.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdtqHYDmde8

This method is not recommended for cleaning silver jewelry with real stones. Prolonged exposure to vinegar solution can negatively affect their appearance.

See another very simple cleaning method, you will need: baking soda and foil.

The fastest way to clean silver from blackness

Using this method, you can restore the shine of silver in 15 minutes. To do this, you must follow the following algorithm of actions:

  1. Heat six percent vinegar to a temperature of 50°.
  2. Soak a cloth in it.
  3. Wipe the silver.

Please note that if the item has become very blackened, oxidized or yellowed, it is recommended to soak the silver in warm vinegar for 10–15 minutes before cleaning.

How to clean silver? You will learn: how to clean any silver product using home methods (7 effective ways); about cleaning silver with special products (3 best products); and also what to do

An effective way to remove heavy plaque

To clean products from heavy contamination, you will need:

  • soda – 1 tbsp. l;
  • salt – 1 tbsp. l;
  • table vinegar - ½ cup;
  • foil (aluminum).

It is recommended to carry out cleaning in a frying pan, the bottom and sides of which are covered with foil. To prepare the solution, add salt, soda and vinegar in the quantities indicated above to 100 ml of boiling water. Place silver on the bottom of the frying pan and fill with the resulting solution. Leave for 15–20 minutes, then rinse the items in running water.

During the procedure, it is necessary to regularly turn the product over so that each side is in contact with the foil.

how to clean a silver ring You will learn: about proper preparation for cleaning; how to clean a silver ring without a stone and with stones; how to save the cleaning results and

After cleaning, items should be stored properly, otherwise they will quickly fade. Silver should not be kept in a damp place all the time. Keep in mind that it is best to store it separately from other jewelry.

Silver cleaning Jewelry cleaning

Source: https://you.cleaning/chistka/kak-pochistit-serebro-uksusom

The secret formula of silver - is it really possible to clean it with acid? | ABOUT SILVER

Silver-containing products are classified as “lunar” metals that can remove negativity, redistribute it in a positive direction, and repel bad energy. It participates in the normalization of the biofield, so wearing silver items is useful. The task, if you want to put them in order, cutlery or dishes, is not to spoil the surface. Numismatists know how effective it is to clean silver with acid to remove oxides with a green tint.

Antique money - a way to professionally clean

Numismatists, to give old money their “former glory,” take half a teaspoon of citric acid, pouring it into a bowl filled with water. It is better to first clean the silver coin from dirt by cleaning it with plain water and a toothbrush.

Next, you need to immerse the coin in a solution of citric acid in a 500-gram container of water for about 5 minutes. The coin becomes much cleaner. Now you can complement the method by brushing with a soft or medium bristle toothbrush, remembering to walk along the edges.

For severe contamination, the procedure is repeated.

Silver rubles of Peter and Catherine the Great.

Silver jewelry - cleaning technique

Cleaning silver with acid also has a positive effect on items raised from the bottom of reservoirs. It is important to remember that if they are decorated with stone, you cannot use the heating method.

Hydrogen sulfide deposits form on jewelry in water, which you can get rid of as follows: take a 300 g container of water and a tablespoon of citric acid. We put it on fire. The water should boil. Then the objects are lowered into the input and boiled with water.

The procedure is performed within 5 minutes. Money brightens when cleaning silver with citric acid comes into play, but some of it remains tarnished. Next, you need to take baking soda and lubricate the object with it, and clean it with a toothbrush.

Everything is thoroughly washed with water and dried on a towel, then wiped with a napkin.

Special moment! The citric acid should completely cover the silver. In this case, her action will be justified.

For jewelry industry products with rhodium plating, cleaning silver with citric acid is not recommended - the coating can be damaged and the model will tarnish. In the future, it will be difficult to “reanimate” it. Simple advice from professionals will help preserve the properties of silver, its beauty and interesting image.

Silver - interesting information about danger

Women wear silver jewelry without taking it off, without thinking about how such decoration will affect the body. Can silver be dangerous at all?

Silver belongs to the category of heavy metals. When it accumulates in the body, complex reactions occur, leading to various ailments. In this regard, consuming silver in food is not at all necessary - it comes in an amount of 7 microns daily with any food.

A little about the benefits of silver jewelry

When you come to the store, you can see E 174 on some products - pure silver, the danger of which makes you doubt its suitability for food. They decorate wedding cakes with silver balls or other delicious decor. You shouldn't eat too much of it with food.

You can wear silver jewelry as much as you like - it will not cause harm. Silver will soothe, normalize metabolism, and protect against the evil eye. Gold, unlike its “brother” in the jewelry “workshop,” will attract negativity: many switched from this precious metal to silver in order to “drive away all evil spirits.”

Silver jewelry will cure stomach diseases and relieve headaches.

If we talk about what hazard class silver has, then we should note the high class V, which includes silver nitrate.

Insidious silver nitrate?

Used as a catalyst in the chemical industry, it is indispensable for many tasks. It is also used for medical purposes - the daily dose is 0.1 g. It is used in Protargol as an astringent and anti-inflammatory agent. Progressive minds in the world of medical science do not recommend doing this, especially when it comes to newborns.

Nitrate belongs to the silver hazard class marked “5”. Handling it requires special precautions when it comes to the substance as a chemical reagent: you need to work with a mask and gloves.

Silver nitrate is widely used by clinics to cauterize erosions, warts, and tumors in 10% form. In the West, this technique is extremely skeptical because of the 5th hazard class of silver and they try not to use it due to many side effects.

For example, it cannot be used during pregnancy, with adrenaline, or novocaine. A place that has been cauterized once leaves a mark on human skin for life, and it appears several years after the procedure - the area begins to darken.

Western experts are inclined to believe that silver in this form is still harmful due to accumulation in the kidneys and liver.

Cleaning silver with hydrochloric acid

Source: https://proserebro.info/2019/05/15/sekretnaya-formula-serebra-realno-li-otchistit-kislotoj/

Methods, rules and features of cleaning silver coins

Cleaning silver coins is a painstaking and time-consuming process. But in most cases, silver is preserved well; serious contamination and oxides that require mechanical processing are rarely encountered. If we are talking about a valuable coin, it is better to contact a jeweler. When this is not possible, you can try to remove dirt from the surface of silver at home.

articles

  • What can I use to clean it?
  • Other methods
  • A few nuances

Silver coin before and after cleaning

What can I use to clean it?

Anyone can clean silver coins at home, but you should approach the procedure responsibly so as not to spoil the appearance of the item or damage the metal.

Suitable for cleaning:

  1. Lemon acid.
  2. Ammonia.
  3. Soda.
  4. Olive oil.
  5. Soap solution.

Citric acid will help clean the metal from dirt and oxides. It is dissolved in water in a ratio of 1 to 3, silver is placed there and periodically turned over. The water should completely cover the surface of the coin. You can try to remove dust and dirt from the surface of the silver using cotton swabs and toothpicks. Do not leave the product in citric acid for a long time, it can damage the patina. It will be difficult to restore it later.

Ammonia, like ethyl alcohol, is often used for cleaning. You can clean silver coins in this way even if there are green spots on their surface. Ammonia removes dirt and copper oxides, then you can dip the product in citric acid in order to increase the effectiveness of the procedure.

Silver can be cleaned using baking soda. This method is the most popular because it does not require significant effort and expense. The silver is dipped in water or wiped with alcohol, then a paste is made from water and soda, which is used to clean the metal from dirt.

Lemon acid

How to clean a silver coin with oil? This is only possible if there are no oxides or serious contaminants on the metal surface. Soak a cotton swab in olive oil, then rub the silver. This method is not very effective, but it is often used to make metal shine.

How to clean a coin with soapy water? A small amount of liquid soap is dissolved in water, the coin is lowered into a container and all dirt and oxides are thoroughly washed off its surface. But if the alloy contains copper, this cleaning method will not bring the desired result.

Other methods

How to clean silver coins using other means and what is suitable for the procedure? This question most often interests inexperienced numismatists who are faced with such a problem for the first time. There are several other silver processing methods that will help remove contaminants from the metal surface:

  • cleaning products with a toothbrush;
  • boiling in citric acid;
  • treatment with Silbertauschbader.

If there is no heavy dirt or stains on the surface of the silver, you can clean the metal with a toothbrush that has soft bristles. The brush is moistened in warm water and the coin is cleaned with it.

Cleaning silver with a toothbrush

Boiling is a radical method. First you need to prepare a solution of water and citric acid. The product is placed in it, and then heated on the stove. When the solution boils, use a toothpick or stick to try to clean the coin. During processing, the product is periodically turned over.

Eilbertauschbader is a unique tool; any collector who has cleaned many coins knows about its existence. But you can find and buy Silbertauschbader only on the Internet. It removes dirt and oxides better than any solvent. Its action can be compared to the work of a jeweler.

Some craftsmen manage to clean silver using lemons by squeezing the juice from these fruits.

How to clean silver coins with lemon juice:

  1. You need to squeeze out the juice.
  2. Soak a cotton swab in it.
  3. Wipe the product.

You can dip silver in the juice, but do not soak it. Of course, the coin will not dissolve, but stains may appear on its surface.

A few nuances

There are several nuances that you should know about before cleaning your silver:

  • baking soda scratches metal;
  • acid can damage the patina;
  • soap solution leads to the appearance of oxides.

Soda leaves small scratches on the metal surface; the cleaning effect will be good, but it is not recommended to treat expensive collection items in this way. This may reduce their cost.

Soaking in a solution with citric acid can damage the patina, so experts do not recommend keeping the metal in the solution for a long time.

If the alloy from which the coin is made contains copper, green oxides may appear on it when the item is soaked in a soap solution. You can get rid of them with ammonia. Often, after processing, the metal is rubbed with olive oil; this procedure is carried out only for those products that are made of silver.

After finishing cleaning in any way, the silver is washed under cold water. The product is thoroughly dried with a cotton pad, and then rubbed with suede as a polish. This will give the metal a characteristic shine.

It is better to leave high-value items in the hands of professionals. Jewelers will help clean the metal from dirt and oxides and preserve its value. Often coins are sold without any processing; if necessary, the collector will clean it himself.

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Source: https://DedPodaril.com/serebro/chistka/chistka-serebryanyh-monet.html

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