Wet the brush with water, put a little dish soap onto the bristles and brush away tarnish. Rinse your jewellery with water and pat dry. I like to leave my jewellery out on a tea towel to airdry and ensure that all the moisture is gone before putting it away.
The next step is to prevent the tarnish from occuring. Tarnish is a result of the reaction between sterling silver, oxygen and moisture. If you can keep your jewellery in an airtight ziplock bag or tupperware container along with something that absorbs the moisture, you are in business. I keep all the fresh packs (silica packets and carbon filled capsules) from dry food products and vitamin containers. When I store my jewellery in their containers, I also place a couple fresh packs along with the jewellery to wick out the moisture.
Where do you purchase one of these amazing brushes? Try your local lapidary store or a place that supplies jewelers with their tools (Ken’s Gems in Calgary). They range in price depending on size, but a good average would be $20. Can’t find one and want it shipped to you? Just email me and I’ll pick one up for you next time I am purchasing my supplies.
Happy cleaning……The best part is, no chemicals!