Silver has been used for centuries as both a decorative and practical metal to make items such as candlesticks, utensils, coins and fine jewelry. Because pure silver is very soft in its makeup, it is usually alloyed (joined) with another stronger metal. Alloyed German silver is commonly alloyed with zinc, copper or nickel. German silver is highly durable but is susceptible to surface scratching and tarnishing. To keep your silver's brilliant luster intact, polish your collection regularly using the steps that follow.
- Skill level:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things you need
- Plastic dishpan
- Scent and phosphate-free dish detergent
- Soft cotton dish cloths
- Small sealable plastic container
- Glass cleaner
- Vinegar
- Cotton balls
- Cotton gloves
- Commercial silver polish
- Makeup application pad
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1
Fill a plastic dishpan about halfway full of warm water. Add several drops of mild dish detergent which is free of any fragrance and phosphates. Mix the detergent with the water to form a soapy solution.
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2
Dip a soft cotton dish cloth into the solution and gently wipe the outside of your German silver piece using a straight, back and forth motion. Do not immerse the piece in the solution. Rinse the piece using cool, fresh water and wipe dry using a soft cotton cloth.
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3
Mix one part glass cleaner and one part vinegar in a small plastic container. Saturate a cotton ball with the solution and clean any tarnished (light brown or black) areas using a gentle, circular motion. Wipe the cleaned area with a soft cotton cloth when finished. Use soft cotton gloves to handle your silver piece while removing tarnish and polishing.
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4
Dip a cotton ball into the commercial silver polish, collecting only a conservative amount. Apply the polish to the silver in a straight, back and forth motion for a uniform appearance. Allow the polish to dry, and then remove it with a soft, dry cotton cloth.
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5
Rinse the piece using fresh, warm water and dry with a soft cotton cloth. To restore luster and shine to your piece, use a makeup application pad or cloth and gently buff the outside of it. Return the piece to storage or display when finished.
Tips and warnings
- To avoid heavy duty cleaning sessions, polish your German silver collection lightly and frequently. This will prevent formation of tarnish before it starts.
- Never use toothpaste or a chemical dip as a means of polishing your silver. The substances contained in each may corrode and destroy your piece.
