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Removing polish residue

Posted: Tue Mar 08, 2016 6:11 am
by Tricky625
I have an issue where I bought a sterling silver salt cauldron which has quite an intricate, fairly deep pattern. in the depths of this pattern is what I believe to be the remains of some sort of silver polish. It is white in colour.

What is the best way to remove this?

I am hesitant to use any type of silver cleaning solution or chemical etc as the piece is 260+ years old and I really do not want to damage it.

The below is just to show the pattern and depth of the engraving etc, the polish residue in question is not all that noticeable in the pic.

Image

Re: Removing polish residue

Posted: Tue Mar 08, 2016 6:50 am
by AG2012
Soak in hot water in a plastic container for a couple of minutes and use very soft brush while still immersed (tooth brush will do, what does not damage your tooth enamel will not damage silver).Then rinse with tap water. Do not use any chemical or abrasive.
Regards

Re: Removing polish residue

Posted: Tue Mar 08, 2016 8:43 am
by Tricky625
Thanks AG2012, that worked a treat.

Regards,

Re: Removing polish residue

Posted: Thu Jul 26, 2018 8:26 pm
by silverhammer
Good advice, AG2012, but I recommend a natural horsehair or Tampico brush as they won't scratch when used with water. Nylon scratches.

Jeff