I recently looked up some advice on cleaning brass jewelry for an old necklace that I made when I first started using brass components. Turns out, you can clean brass jewelry with things you have around your house. Here is what I used:
First I washed the necklace in warm, soapy water. I recommend using a natural dish soap like Seventh Generation. I let it sit for about 2 minutes and brushed over the chain lightly with an old tooth brush. Afterward, I rinsed it thoroughly and dried it with a towel.
Next I put the necklace back in the bowl and covered it with ketchup. The tomato in the ketchup will eat away tarnish. After 2 minutes, I rinsed it thoroughly and dried it with a towel. You can soak it for longer but I recommend checking it every 2 minutes. You don't want it going all the way back to a bright brass color!
Next I dabbed a little olive oil onto my towel and ran it over all of the brass areas. I went back over it with a dry towel to get rid of any excess oil.
I was pretty happy with the result! Check it out...
BEFORE
AFTER
Here are some notes:
Instead of ketchup, you can also use Worcestershire sauce or lemon juice mixed with salt. With any type of cleaner, it never hurts to test in an inconspicuous place first.
Be careful of stones. Soft stones should never be put in chemical or even natural cleaners. If you are dealing with a painted cameo, it's better to keep it dry as water, soap or any cleaning agents can wash away the paint.
And always keep these rules in mind when it comes to jewelry:
1. Keep it dry. Metal is affected by chemicals in soaps, pools and from sweat. Take your jewelry off when you swim, bathe or exercise.
2. Store it in a cloth pouch or little zip lock bag.
3. Clean it when it needs to be cleaned.
Here is a link to an article that I found really helpful! Cleaning Tips
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