6 Tips for Using a Silver Polishing Cloth

When using a silver polishing cloth to maintain your jewelry, always be gentle. Metals are softer than you might think, and vigorous rubbing can deform the object or damage the surface. Pay special attention to the delicate structures and chains of the jewelry.

 

2.Too Much Force Can Break Fine Chains

When wiping chains, it is best to use a segmented wiping method. Lay the chain flat, secure a section of it with two fingers, and gently wipe that small part with the silver polishing cloth. Wipe in sections.

 

Remember to be gentle; rubbing too hard can cause fine chains to break.

 

3.Be Careful with Prongs

Be extra cautious when wiping the settings and prongs of gemstones. Ensure that the edge of the cloth does not catch on the prongs. Accidentally snagging a prong can cause it to shift, potentially loosening the gemstone.

 

4.Avoid Gemstones

Silver polishing cloths are impregnated with special polishing agents and chemicals. Use them only on the metal parts of the jewelry, avoiding any gemstones. The chemicals in the cloth can damage gemstones, especially those with lower hardness such as turquoise, pearls, coral, or opal.

 

5.Do Not Use on Matte or Antiqued Jewelry

Whenever you wipe jewelry with a silver polishing cloth, it removes a small amount of metal from the surface, which could alter the texture of the jewelry. Since matte and antiqued finishes are specific types of metal textures, using a silver polishing cloth could damage them and turn them shiny. If you need to maintain such jewelry, it is recommended to take it back to the jeweler or store where you originally purchased it.

 

6.Combine with Cleaner and a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

After wiping with the silver polishing cloth, be sure to gently scrub with neutral soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean off any residue from the cloth. Residual chemicals can make the metal more prone to oxidation, and extensive contact with the skin may cause allergies.

 

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