Sterling silver jewelry appeals to us. Its bright shine can bring out the beauty in any outfit, from a little black dress to blue jeans. After time, though, the metal starts to tarnish. The silver gleam darkens, and the shine can disappear. Fortunately, it is also easy to clean. Here are a few tips to clean your sterling silver earrings and other jewelry, and prevent tarnish from returning.

Tarnish occurs when metals in sterling silver oxidize; copper is the biggest culprit. Over time, your sterling silver will change color. Fortunately, this is easy to reverse. By using a simple cleaning method, you can restore that beautiful luster. It can literally look like new again. One of these easy methods can make your jewelry shine again.

Ultrasonic cleaners are popular with jewelers. Small units are sold for home use. Fill the reservoir with solution and your jewelry, and then turn it on. In a little while, your silver will look shiny and new. Simply rinse with cool water, then buff for a beautiful shine.

Liquid tarnish removers are commercially available. Dip your jewelry into the tarnish remover according to the manufacturer’s directions. While this method is great for sterling silver, some dips can cause damage to porous stones like amber and pearl. Read the label when choosing a dip to ensure it will be safe for your gemstones. Always read the directions carefully so you don’t ruin precious stones.

A popular home recipe for cleaning sterling silver requires nothing more than some tin foil, baking soda, and hot water. Line the bottom of a glass bowl with tin foil. Place your silver jewelry onto the foil, and then sprinkle it all with a generous spoonful of baking soda. (Some recipes suggest you add salt and dish soap as well, though this is optional.) Cover the foil and jewelry with boiling water and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse your jewelry well with clear water. The tarnish transfers to the foil, leaving you with gleaming sterling silver. Use caution — boiling water may crack or otherwise damage stones.

Use a clean, soft cloth to gently polish your silver. Some jewelry stores sell special polishing cloths that are impregnated with jewelers’ rouge, a super-fine abrasive designed to buff out any microscopic scratches that dull the shine of your sterling silver jewelry. These cloths are not good choices for plated items, as the rouge will remove the finish over time.

Once you have your jewelry clean, make sure it is completely dry before putting it away. Anti-tarnish strips can be placed in with your jewelry to prevent tarnish. Alternatively, there are also special bags that hold your sterling silver, preventing tarnish from forming. Send your time enjoying your jewelry, not cleaning it!