Cleaning your Silver Celtic Jewellery

How to Clean Your Celtic Silver Jewellery – Preserve the Shine & Symbolism

Celtic silver jewellery is more than just an accessory—it’s a wearable piece of Scottish heritage. With intricate knotwork, spirals, and cross motifs passed down through generations, keeping your jewellery looking its best ensures its story continues for years to come.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean your Celtic silver jewellery safely, and share a few expert tips to prevent tarnish and damage.

Why Does Silver Tarnish?

Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver) naturally tarnishes over time when exposed to air, moisture, skin oils, and everyday pollutants. Tarnish appears as a dull, dark coating—especially in recessed areas like the fine details of Celtic knotwork.

Don’t worry—this is completely normal, and it’s reversible with the right care.

3 Safe Ways to Clean Your Celtic Silver Jewellery

1. Quick Clean with a Silver Polishing Cloth

Best for: Light tarnish & regular upkeep

• Use a jeweller's silver polishing cloth (non-abrasive, anti-tarnish).

• Gently rub the surface in one direction, avoiding circular motions that can cause micro-scratches.

• Ideal for rings, earrings, and pendants you wear often.

Tip: Avoid over-polishing engraved or oxidised areas, where blackened detail is part of the design.

2. DIY Silver Soak at Home

Best for: Heavier tarnish or hard-to-reach areas

You’ll need:

• A bowl

• Aluminium foil

• 1 tbsp baking soda

• Hot (not boiling) water

Instructions:

1. Line the bowl with foil, shiny side up.

2. Add baking soda and hot water.

3. Place your jewellery in the solution, making sure it touches the foil.

4. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes.

5. Remove, rinse thoroughly with cold water, and dry with a soft cloth.

This gentle chemical reaction lifts tarnish without scrubbing, especially helpful for Celtic knotwork and embossed pieces.

3. Use a Silver Cleaning Solution (Caution Advised)

Best for: Deep tarnish

• Purchase a trusted silver cleaner (avoid harsh chemicals or anything labeled for industrial use).

• Follow the instructions carefully.

• Avoid submerging any jewellery with gemstones, enamel, or oxidised detail.

⚠️ Always test on a small area first and never use silver dip too frequently—it can erode soft silver over time.

Bonus Tips: Preventing Tarnish

• Store silver jewellery in airtight pouches or anti-tarnish bags.

• Add a piece of chalk, silica gel, or anti-tarnish strips to your jewellery box to absorb moisture.

• Remove before swimming, showering, or applying perfumes/lotions.

• Wipe with a clean cloth after wearing to remove oils and sweat.

When to Seek Professional Cleaning

For high-value items or heavily tarnished designer pieces, it’s best to seek expert cleaning from a professional jeweller.

They’ll use ultrasonic or steam cleaning methods that restore brilliance while preserving intricate design work.

Final Thoughts

Whether you own a delicate pair of Celtic knot earrings or a bold sterling silver cross, caring for your silver jewellery keeps it looking stunning—and extends its life for generations. With just a little upkeep, the beauty and symbolism of Celtic tradition will shine for years to come.

Explore our collection of handcrafted Celtic silver jewellery– from timeless rings to designer crosses made in Scotland.