How to Clean a Turquoise & Silver Necklace
CHRISTI ALDRIDGE
LIFE
Turquoise is a beautiful blue stone that looks dazzling against silver. However, turquoise is porous and, therefore, shows dirt and grease more visibly than other types of stones. Care for your turquoise and silver necklaces with regular cleaning, polishing, and proper storing techniques.
- Mild soap
- Water
- Soft-headed toothbrush
- Soft cloth
- Tissue paper or sealed box
- Silver polishing cloth
1 Wet the necklace
Wet the necklace in a bowl of mild soap and warm water. Avoid submerging the necklace completely underwater. Simply get it wet.
2 Massage the stone
Massage the stone and the silver with a soft-headed toothbrush to gently remove any buildup and clean the necklace safely. A cloth dipped in water will also work if you don't have an old toothbrush on-hand.
3 Dry the necklace with a soft cloth
Dry the necklace with a soft cloth, making sure no water remains on the necklace. Water can change the color of turquoise and alter the stone's beauty, so dry the necklace completely. Leave it to air-dry for a few minutes just to be sure before storing.
4 Wrapped in tissue paper
Store your turquoise and silver necklace wrapped in tissue paper or placed in a sealed box or jewelry bag. Sunlight can fade and dull the stones, so never keep turquoise out on your vanity.
5 Polish
Polish your necklace between cleanings with a silver jewelry polishing cloth. Buff the stone with the cloth to keep it shiny, dust-free and clean every time you wear it. For best results, always clean your necklace after you wear it and before you store it.
- Avoid using chemical jewelry solvents or cleaners on your turquoise necklace.
- Never submerge your necklace in water and leave it there.
- Never use very hot water to clean your jewelry.
- Take turquoise off if you're doing any cleaning, housework or yardwork to avoid damaging the stones or scratching the silver.
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