Refurbishing antique silver

Questions on polishing, restoration, conservation + manufacturing techniques
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Galabagos
Posts: 5
Joined: Tue Nov 07, 2017 4:57 pm

Refurbishing antique silver

Post by Galabagos »

Hi guys,

What are your thoughts on polishing oxidation off from an antique silver ring? Does the same "keep as it is" rule apply with jewelry as with old guns, coins and etc.? I have this supposedly Victorian era sterling skull ring and I'd really like to wear it, but the partly worn off oxidation makes it look bit too harsh for wearing.

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Thanks!

-Galabagos
Joerg
contributor
Posts: 440
Joined: Tue Aug 02, 2005 6:41 am
Location: Switzerland

Re: Refurbishing antique silver

Post by Joerg »

Hi, the "keep it as is" rule which is followed on old coins and other antique items does not apply to silver. Silver shall shine. And old silver can carfully be hand polished.
So clean it, make it shine and wear it.
Regards, Jörg
Galabagos
Posts: 5
Joined: Tue Nov 07, 2017 4:57 pm

Re: Refurbishing antique silver

Post by Galabagos »

Thank you, Jörg for your reply! I'm glad I found this forum, this is very useful and informative.

-Galabagos
silverhammer
Posts: 29
Joined: Thu Nov 17, 2011 4:35 pm
Location: Rhode Island, USA

Re: Refurbishing antique silver

Post by silverhammer »

Galabagos,

Use an extremely mild polish first on a cellulose sponge to see if you still like that nice three-dimensional effect. Never use chemical dips!

Jeff Herman
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