Jewelry made from brass, silver, and copper can be stunning, but these metals require proper care to maintain their luster and beauty. Over time, exposure to air, moisture, and daily wear can cause these metals to tarnish or lose their shine. Fortunately, with the right techniques and tools, you can easily restore your jewelry to its original brilliance. In this guide, we’ll explore various methods for cleaning brass, silver, and copper jewelry, including using polishing cloths, polishing pads, steel wool, ultrasonic cleaners, vinegar, and specialized metal cleaners.
See our BLOG POST on how to store your jewelry to make sure it stays tarnish free as long as possible!
1. Polishing Cloths: Gentle Cleaning for Everyday Use
Polishing cloths are a must-have for any jewelry owner. They are soft, non-abrasive, and infused with a gentle polishing agent that can remove light tarnish from brass, silver, and copper jewelry. These cloths are perfect for daily maintenance and can be used on most pieces without causing scratches.
How to Use:
- Gently rub the jewelry with the polishing cloth in a circular motion.
- Focus on areas with visible tarnish or dullness.
- Use a clean section of the cloth as it becomes dirty to avoid spreading tarnish.
Pro Tip: Regular use of a polishing cloth can prevent heavy tarnish from forming, making deep cleaning less frequent.
2. Polishing Pads: Deeper Cleaning for Stubborn Tarnish
These are my favorite for cleaning brass! Polishing pads are similar to polishing cloths but are slightly more abrasive, making them ideal for tackling stubborn tarnish that a cloth alone can’t remove. They are particularly effective for intricate designs where tarnish tends to accumulate.
How to Use:
- Rub the jewelry with the polishing pad, applying light pressure.
- For intricate designs, use the edge of the pad to reach small crevices.
- After polishing, wipe the jewelry with a clean, soft cloth to remove any residue.
Pro Tip: Test the polishing pad on a small, inconspicuous area of the jewelry first to ensure it doesn’t scratch the metal.
3. Steel Wool: Heavy-Duty Cleaning for Deep Tarnish
Steel wool is an excellent option for brass and copper jewelry that has developed significant tarnish. However, it should be used with caution, as it can scratch softer metals like silver.
How to Use:
- Choose fine-grade steel wool (0000) for the gentlest abrasion.
- Gently rub the tarnished areas in a circular motion.
- Avoid using steel wool on delicate or silver jewelry, as it can cause scratches.
- Rinse the jewelry under warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Pro Tip: After using steel wool, follow up with a polishing cloth to restore the jewelry’s shine.
4. Ultrasonic Cleaner: High-Tech Cleaning for Intricate Pieces
An ultrasonic cleaner uses high-frequency sound waves to create tiny bubbles that remove dirt, grime, and tarnish from jewelry. This method is ideal for cleaning intricate or heavily tarnished pieces.
How to Use:
- Fill the ultrasonic cleaner with water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Place the jewelry in the cleaner’s basket and submerge it in the solution.
- Turn on the cleaner and let it run for 3-5 minutes.
- Rinse the jewelry under warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Pro Tip: Ultrasonic cleaners are safe for most metal jewelry but should not be used on delicate gemstones or pearls, as the vibrations can cause damage. Make sure to research your stone before putting your jewelry piece in an ultrasonic cleaner!!!
5. Vinegar: Natural Cleaning for Brass and Copper
Vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner for brass and copper jewelry. Its acidic properties help dissolve tarnish and restore shine without the use of harsh chemicals.
How to Use:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl.
- Soak the brass or copper jewelry in the solution for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft toothbrush to remove any remaining tarnish.
- Rinse under warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
Pro Tip: For stubborn tarnish, add a teaspoon of salt to the vinegar solution for extra cleaning power.
6. Brass, Silver, and Copper Cleaners: Specialized Products for Maximum Shine
Commercial metal cleaners are specially formulated to clean and polish brass, silver, and copper jewelry. These products are designed to remove tarnish quickly and leave a protective coating that helps prevent future tarnishing.
How to Use:
- Apply a small amount of the cleaner to a soft cloth or polishing pad.
- Rub the jewelry in a circular motion, focusing on tarnished areas.
- Rinse the jewelry thoroughly under warm water to remove any residue.
- Dry with a soft cloth and buff to a shine.
Pro Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using commercial cleaners, as some products may require specific application methods.
Protect Your cleaned Pieces With Wax
Renaissance Wax is a game-changer for preserving the beauty of your jewelry. Originally developed for museum conservation, this micro-crystalline wax creates an invisible, non-sticky barrier that protects metals like copper, brass, silver, and aluminum from tarnish and corrosion. It seals out moisture, oils, and pollutants while enhancing the natural shine of your pieces. A small amount goes a long way—simply buff it onto your jewelry for long-lasting protection and a polished finish.
You can buy it here on Amazon.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your brass, silver, and copper jewelry doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By using the right tools and techniques, you can keep your jewelry looking as stunning as the day you bought it. Whether you prefer the gentle approach of a polishing cloth or the power of an ultrasonic cleaner, there’s a method for every type of tarnish. Remember, regular maintenance and proper storage free of moisture and dust is key to preserving the beauty and longevity of your jewelry collection. Happy cleaning!