How to Clean Tarnished Silver – Why Silver Turns Black and How to Fix It

Has your silver jewellery turned black?

If your silver jewellery has turned black, there is no need to worry. Silver turning black is not a defect – it is a natural property of silver.

If your jewellery is made of sterling silver (925/1000) and does not have a protective surface treatment such as rhodium plating, platinum plating, or another finish, it will naturally react with its environment. This process is commonly referred to as tarnishing, and it can make silver gradually darken or turn black.

Why does silver turn black?

Silver turns black due to a chemical reaction known as tarnishing. When silver comes into contact with air, it reacts with sulfur compounds naturally present in the environment. This reaction forms a dark layer on the surface of the metal, which is why silver appears blackened.

This process cannot be completely prevented, but it can be significantly slowed down. Proper storage helps – ideally in a dry, dark place, stored in a closed box or protective pouch.

There are also special anti-tarnish bags and polishing cloths impregnated with protective agents that help slow down oxidation. However, even with careful storage, silver will eventually tarnish. At some point, cleaning blackened silver jewellery becomes necessary.

Methods of cleaning silver

There are many ways to clean silver – from toothpaste and brushing to chemical or electrochemical reactions. Some methods are more effective than others, but not all are suitable for every type of jewellery.

If your jewellery contains glued stones or pearls, avoid liquid cleaning solutions whenever possible. Liquids can weaken or dissolve the glue, which may result in the stone or pearl becoming loose or falling out.

As a first step, we recommend using special silver cleaning cloths, polishing cloths, or cotton pads designed for sterling silver. For heavier tarnishing, you can use dedicated silver cleaning foams or solutions intended for jewellery.

If the tarnishing is severe and home cleaning does not help, we recommend visiting a professional jeweller.

With regular care, silver jewellery will never tarnish so heavily that it cannot be restored to its original appearance.

Cleaning silver using an electrochemical reaction

This method is simple, effective, and widely used – but it is not suitable for all jewellery.

Important: If pearls or stones are attached with glue (which is common for pearl earrings, rings, and pendants), do not use this method. Hot water can loosen the glue and damage the jewellery.

You will need:

• a heat-resistant container
• aluminium foil (or a piece of aluminium)
• salt
• hot water

Line the container with aluminium foil. Place the blackened silver jewellery inside, add salt, and pour hot water over it.

An electrochemical reaction will start immediately, and the dark layer will begin to disappear almost before your eyes.

After cleaning, rinse the jewellery with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. If the surface appears slightly dull, you can gently polish it.

This method can also be used to clean silver coins and other silver objects.

Related articles and jewellery care

If you would like to learn more about the material used in silver jewellery, we recommend reading our guide on what sterling silver is and why it is used in jewellery.

Proper care is especially important for jewellery worn close to the skin, such as pearl earrings, where silver settings and delicate materials require gentle cleaning.

If you are looking for chains suitable for pendants or everyday wear, you can explore our collection of silver chains.

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