Handcrafted Jewelry

Copper can be cleaned using a mild acidic solution. It is wise to neutralize the acid on the jewelry after cleaning and rinsing by rubbing or brushing baking soda with a soft toothbrush all over the piece.  Rinse it again and use a soft cloth to buff it dry.  If the acid isn't neutralized, it will form microscopic pits in the metal, increasing the surface area so that even more tarnish can develop.

Ruth is a certified Level I Art Clay Instructor. 

Here's another way to clean sterling silver with natural ingredients that you probably have in your cupboard.  This is also gentle on components with AB coatings like Swarovski crystals.