How to Keep Necklaces and Chains from Rusting

Co-authored by Mark Sandler

Last Updated: December 4, 2022 References

Rusted or tarnished metals can make chains and necklaces appear dull. To prevent your items from rusting, keep your jewelry away from humidity and water. Store the jewelry safely in an enclosed container. Regular cleanings can also keep your chains sparkling. Keep in mind that only iron can rust. Dark marks on silver, copper, gold, or other metals is often tarnish. Fortunately, tarnish can be cleaned and prevented in the same manner as rust.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Protecting Chains from Moisture

1
Put on lotion before you wear your chain. Lotion, creams, and perfumes can all cause your chain to rust. Make sure that they are completely rubbed in and dry before you put on your necklace or chain.^{[1]
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Gemological Institute of America
Nonprofit institute responsible for gemological research and education and setting gemstone buying and selling standards
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2
Put necklaces away before you shower. Any water can cause your necklace or chain to rust. Before you take a shower, remove your necklace. Put it safely away somewhere outside of the bathroom. If you set it down on the counter, it may still get wet and rust.^{[2]
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3
Remove jewelry before swimming. If you are planning on going to the pool or beach, leave your necklaces and chains at home. The water will cause the metal to rust.^{[3]
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Trustworthy Source
Gemological Institute of America
Nonprofit institute responsible for gemological research and education and setting gemstone buying and selling standards
Go to source}
- You can wear necklaces that contain no metal, such as ones made with a leather cord or braided string.
4
Apply a sealant to your necklaces and chains. By sealing your jewelry, you can prevent rust from developing on it. Look for a sealant that is designed for the type of metal that you want to protect. Spray or brush it over the chain, and let it dry completely.
- Do not use nail polish, as nail polish will flake off in a few days.
- Sealant can be purchased at craft or hardware stores.
5
Wear other types of jewelry on rainy days. If you think it is going to rain, avoid wearing metal jewelry that day. Instead, choose a necklace made out of fabric, plastic, or another non-metal material.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Storing Your Jewelry

1
Store jewelry in closed containers. Use jewelry boxes, cases, and sleeves to store your necklaces and chains. This will protect them from humid and open air while you are not wearing them.^{[4]
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EXPERT TIP

Be sure to keep your jewelry stored in a cool, dry place.

Mark Sandler
Graduate Gemologist, Jeweler, & Appraiser
Mark Sandler is a Graduate of the Gemological Institute of America, and a Jeweler with over 30 years of experience. His family business, Designer Jewels, has been designing handmade jewelry for five generations. Mark is a member of the American Society of Appraisers and the American Gem Society.

Mark Sandler
Graduate Gemologist, Jeweler, & Appraiser
2
Place each necklace or chain in a separate zipper bag. The bag will keep air and humidity out. Make sure that every piece has their own bag. You can then place these bags in your jewelry box.^{[5]
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3
Place silica gel bags in your jewelry box. You can purchase small bags of silica gel balls. Place one packet in your jewelry box near your necklaces or chains. You can even put one small packet inside of a zipper bag with your chain. This will keep any additional moisture out.
- These can be bought at hardware stores or online. They are sometimes included in the box when you purchase jewelry or other items.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Cleaning Your Jewelry

1
Place the chain in jewelry cleaning solution. There are many jewelry cleaning solutions on the market. These come as foams, liquids, and pastes. Find one that is labeled as suitable for the type of metal you are cleaning. Make sure that you always follow the directions on the package.
- If you have a container filled with liquid, you simply need to drop your chain inside. Let it soak for the recommended amount of time.
- Foam solutions can be sprayed onto your chain. You will then scrub the chain with a toothbrush and rinse it. Make sure you dry it completely after rinsing.
- Pastes may be applied to the chain with a cloth and rinsed off.
2
Soak the chain in a baking soda bath. Fill a bowl with boiling water. Stir in one tablespoon of salt and one tablespoon of baking soda. Soak the chain or necklace for up to five minutes. Once it is done, dry it with a microfiber cloth. Make sure the necklace is completely dry before you put it away.^{[6]
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- Do not use this method if you have gemstones on your necklace.
- If you are worried about damaging your necklace or chain, you can test a small part of it first. Dip one end of the necklace in the solution to see how it reacts.
- Do not use paper towels, as they can scratch the metal.
3
Take valuable necklaces or gemstones to the jewelers. A jeweler can professionally clean your jewelry without damaging it. This is recommended for any jewelry made out of more precious metals, such as gold, or for jewelry that contains gemstones. Get it cleaned every six to twelve months to prevent it from tarnishing.^{[7]
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