How to Keep Your Brass Jewellery Set Sparkling: Top Care and Cleaning Tips

Brass jewellery is a timeless addition to any wardrobe, offering a rich, classic look. Whether it's your favourite pair of brass earrings, a statement bracelet, or a cherished ring, these pieces can stand the test of time. Brass naturally develops a patina, adding character and a sense of age to your jewellery. However, if you prefer to keep your brass pieces looking as bright and shiny as the day you bought them, this guide provides all the essential tips for cleaning and maintaining your brass jewellery.

Why Brass Jewellery Tarnishes: Understanding Oxidation

Brass jewellery tarnishes due to a natural process known as oxidation. The copper in the brass reacts with moisture and air, forming a layer of tarnish. While this tarnish can add a vintage look to your jewellery, regular cleaning can help maintain its original shine. Understanding this process lets you properly care for your brass pieces, ensuring they last for many years.

Recognizing Discolouration in Brass Jewelry

Many people notice a greenish discolouration when wearing brass jewellery. This reaction is caused by the copper in brass reacting with the natural oils in your skin. The pH balance of your skin plays a significant role in how often this occurs—people with more acidic skin may experience this more frequently. While completely harmless, this discolouration can be cleaned easily, restoring your brass jewellery to its original glory.

Top 4 Cleaning Methods for Brass Jewellery

Here are some effective cleaning methods for maintaining the brilliance of your brass jewellery. These techniques are ideal for earrings, bracelets, and rings and will help prevent tarnishing and discolouration.

1. Vinegar Solution: Quick and Effective Cleaning

If you're looking for a quick way to restore the shine of your brass jewellery, try this vinegar solution:

• What You'll Need: White vinegar and water (1:1 ratio).

• Instructions:

1. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a bowl.

2. Soak your brass jewellery in this solution for about 30 seconds.

3. Rinse thoroughly and use a soft polishing cloth to buff your jewellery to a shine.

Tip: Avoid using this method on jewellery with delicate stones, as vinegar can damage them.

2. The Ketchup Technique: A Fun Trick for Cleaning

For a fun and quick cleaning option, the ketchup method is a classic:

• What You'll Need: Ketchup and a soft cloth.

• Instructions:

1. Apply a small amount of ketchup to the tarnished areas of your brass jewellery.

2. Let it sit for about a minute.

3. Gently wipe it off with a cloth and rinse thoroughly.

Note: Be cautious if your brass jewellery contains stones, as ketchup's acidity may affect them.

3. The Citrus Mix: Deep Cleaning for Brass Jewellery

Lemon and salt can work wonders to deep-clean your brass jewellery:

• You'll Need: Lemon juice, water, salt, and a soft cloth.

• Instructions:

1. Mix 1 cup of water, 1½ tbsp of lemon juice, and 1 tsp salt in a bowl.

2. Soak your brass jewellery in this solution for 15-30 minutes.

3. After soaking, rinse with clean water and pat dry.

For a more intense scrub, create a paste using 1 tbsp of lemon juice and 4-5 tbsp of baking soda. Gently scrub the brass with a toothbrush, rinse, and dry.

4. Professional Cleaning: Leave It to the Experts

If you want to give your brass jewellery the royal treatment, sometimes professional cleaning is the best option. Many jewellery stores or professionals offer cleaning services that restore the sheen of your brass pieces. Additionally, some brands, like Mahnal, offer a complimentary polishing and cleaning service with all orders (excluding shipping fees).

How to Polish Brass Jewellery

Polishing your brass jewellery can keep it shining for longer. Here's a simple, two-step process for polishing:

1. Polishing Cloth: To remove tarnish and surface oxides, use a specialised brass polishing cloth impregnated with a cleaner. Make sure the fabric is designed for brass care.

2. Wax Sealer: After polishing, apply a small amount of wax sealer to preserve the finish and prevent future tarnishing. This creates a water-resistant barrier, ensuring your jewellery stays bright and shiny.

If you wear brass rings daily, you might not need frequent polishing. However, always dry them thoroughly after washing your hands or getting them wet.

How to Store Brass Jewellery

Proper storage is essential to prevent tarnishing. Brass jewellery should be stored in a moisture-free environment to avoid oxidation. Here are some tips for storing your brass jewellery:

• Seal Out Moisture: Store your brass jewellery in a jewellery box that seals out moisture and dust.

• Use Plastic Packaging: Keep your jewellery in original plastic (compostable) packaging. This prevents moisture exposure and dust buildup.

Remember, brass jewellery is durable and, with proper care, can last for generations. These simple tips will help ensure your brass pieces stay as beautiful as the day you got them.

FAQs About Brass Jewellery Care

Q: Does brass jewellery turn green?

A: Yes, brass jewellery can develop a greenish tint due to a reaction between the copper and the natural oils on your skin. To minimise this, avoid wearing your brass jewellery while swimming or showering, and dry it thoroughly after getting it wet.

Q: What are the downsides of brass jewellery?

A: While brass jewellery is affordable and stylish, it does require regular maintenance to keep its shine. However, these issues can be easily mitigated with proper care and cleaning.

Q: How long does brass jewellery last?

A: Brass jewellery is highly durable and can last a lifetime. Proper storage and care can help maintain its structural integrity without rusting or corroding.

Q: How can I stop brass jewellery from tarnishing?

A: To prevent tarnish, keep your jewellery dry, store it in a cool, dark place, and use anti-tarnish strips or silica packets in your jewellery box. Regular cleaning and occasional professional polishing will also help.

Q: Is it okay to wear brass jewellery every day?

A: If you don't have sensitivities, you can wear brass jewellery daily. Brass has natural antimicrobial properties, making it safe for daily wear. Regular cleaning will keep it looking fresh.

By following these tips, your brass jewellery will remain a cherished part of your collection for years, retaining its beauty and shine with minimal effort. Enjoy the elegance of well-maintained brass pieces, whether you're wearing earrings, bracelets, or rings.