QuestionI've learned something - thanks. I did try a liquid silver tarnish remover and followed the directions to a "t". I even did a second and third application yet, was surprised that it really didn't improve. Could it be that I should try a cream silver tarnish remover as opposed to a liquid one?
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Followup To
Question -
I purchased a sterling ring marked 925 inside yet, on the outer bottom portion of the ring, it has totally lost it's shine, except for one small speck, it looks like a crackbox ring. The top of the ring looks great. I just assumed it was silverplate until I learned by your article the significance of 925 on silver - and it IS marked 925. Is it possible a jeweler or manufacturer could be so low to violate the public's trust and purposely try to pass off less than 925 silver? Should I go back to the shop that sold me the ring? Is it possible to ruin 925 jewelry? They have been there for several years - at Union Station in Washington, DC.
Answer -
G'day AJ and many thanks for your query
With Silver being priced so low, there would be no point in any manufacturer trying to pass off a base metal ring as silver. The current price is $11.21 an ounce. As there is approx 32 grams to one ounce, that equates to about 35 cents per gram. Most rings would weigh about 3-5 grams so we are not talking a lot of money here.
When silver is new it is very bright and looks a million dollars, but over time it tarnishes to a dull, even grey color. This sounds as though this has happened.
In your local supermarket you can by a Silver cleaner for under ten bucks. It takes only a few seconds to get rid of the tarnish and even comes with a polishing cloth.
That's my advice, but please read the instructions as not all gemstones (you didn't mention any) can be dipped in the cleaner - pearls for example.
Hope this helps.
AnswerG'day again AJ
The typical liquid silver cleaner (like Goddards) simply removes the tarnish build up, so I wouldn't recommend you do that too often.
The cream is more of a polish, but if your item is scratched or worn, all you would do then is polish scratches!
You might like to consider taking the ring to your local jeweler and have them professionally remove the scratches and repolish the ring for you.
Hope this helps.
