How to care for silver anklets?
Silver anklets and anklets are important in enhancing the beauty of women's feet, be it a festival, wedding or everyday use. But, due to continuous wear and exposure to sweat, moisture, and chemical elements present in the air, the color of silver starts tarnishing. Due to this, even the new anklet starts looking old.
If the shine of your silver anklet has reduced, you do not need to go to the jeweler immediately. You can clean it at home with some simple methods. However, it is necessary to be careful while cleaning so as not to damage the carving and design of the anklet. Let us know the simple ways to clean silver anklets and ways to maintain its shine for a long time.
Why do silver anklets turn black?
Blackness on silver is not caused only by dust or dirt. When it comes in contact with the sulfur compounds present in the air, a layer of silver sulphide is formed on the surface of the silver. Due to this, silver jewelery starts appearing black or dull. Sweat, humidity, perfume, lotion and some cosmetic products can also affect the shine of silver. Therefore, after wearing anklets it is necessary to clean them and keep them properly.
1. Cleaning with mild soap and lukewarm water
If light dirt or sweat has accumulated on the silver anklets, then follow this method.
How to clean?
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Mix some mild soap in lukewarm water.
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Clean the anklet gently with a soft cloth.
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Use a very soft brush on intricate design areas.
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Then wash with clean water and dry with soft cotton cloth.
This method helps in removing the dirt accumulated on the surface. Keep in mind that the water should not be too hot and do not keep the anklet soaked for a long time.
2. Caution while cleaning with baking soda
Baking soda can be used to remove blackening of silver jewellery. But, applying it directly on the anklet and rubbing it vigorously can cause scratches. Do not use it especially on anklets with carved or oxidized finish. If the anklet is expensive, it would be better to take advice from a jeweller.
3. Aluminum foil and hot water method
To reduce blackening of silver, a mixture of aluminum foil, baking soda and hot water is popular. But it is not suitable for every type of silver jewellery. Putting anklets with pearls or glued stones in this mixture can cause harm. So, before trying this method, know about the finish of the anklet.
Ways to maintain the shine of silver anklets
If you want that your silver anklets do not turn black again and again, then keep these things in mind:
- Wipe after wearing: After taking off the anklets, clean them with a soft cloth.
- Avoid perfumes: Wear anklets only after applying perfume and lotion.
- Place it in the right place: Keep the anklet in an airtight pouch in a dry place.
- Avoid rough brushes: Rubbing too hard can cause scratches on silver.
- Keep away from chemicals: Bleach and strong chemicals can damage the surface of the anklet.
When is it better to get cleaned by a jeweler?
If the anklet is too blackened or has fine carvings, it is better to get it cleaned by a jeweler. Light dirt can be removed with soap and water, but removing the deposited silver sulfide layer requires a separate cleaning process.