The quick solution for tarnished silver

Silver jewellery tends to darken when not in use. It oxidises. With this simple method, you can make it shine again in less than ten minutes.

Since I calculated my fashion-footprint, I've had a rethink. Not only am I focussing on quality over quantity, but I'm also rethinking my wardrobe: whereas I used to buy something new in "I-have-nothing-to-wear moments", I'm now trying new combinations. My current project: I want to wear more of my silver jewellery, which I have neglected in recent months. The comeback comes promptly: when I open my jewellery box, I notice that it has a dark tarnish. The reason for this black haze is the oxidation of silver and sulphur in the air. The precious metal emits electrons that combine with the sulphur. Fortunately, there is a simple method that you can use to reverse this chemical reaction. Your silver will then shine like new.

To do this, you need:

• Cooking salt
• Aluminium foil
• Bowl (the size depends on the item).

First line the bowl with aluminium foil and place the piece of jewellery to be treated in it. Now sprinkle the table salt over it - please don't be stingy with the salt. Now heat the water in a pan or kettle (I choose the second option) and pour it into the bowl. The jewellery should be completely covered. The salt dissolves the sulphur and transfers it to the aluminium. [[image:34298851,34298853]]

After a few minutes, the silver will shine like new. Be careful when you take your jewellery out of the hot water bath. So you don't burn yourself. I use a wooden spoon for this. Then dry your jewellery thoroughly. You can repeat this process if necessary. This is better than leaving the jewellery in the water bath for longer than necessary. [[image:34298855]]

This trick has worked well for my silver jewellery so far. What do you do with tarnished silver? Let me know and leave your tip in the comments column.