Restoring Dull Sterling Silver: Causes & Cleaning Solutions

Question
I'd like to know what kind of cleaner would leave a dull, grey/white finish on sterling silver beads.  The finish appears to be etched like some metals cleaned with dishwasher powder. Does this mean they've been ruined beyond repair or could they still be polished properly?

Answer
Good morning Roberta, Unfortunately most cleaners on the public market do not do the job chemically. Your beads are not ruined. I suggest you do the following: Go to a good jeweler in town and have them professionally clean and polish your beads. Then as a maintainence measure you go to hardware store and pick up a tube of Semichrome polish. Accept no substitues. I found this brand many years ago when I owned a jewelry store and it is absolutely the best. This should do the trick. Good luck.

Steve Kretser