To Clean Gold Chains, Earrings, &c.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Soap, mild (Use a mild, unscented soap)
• 2 cups Water (For creating lather)
• 2 tablespoons Magnesia powder (magnesium carbonate) (Available at pharmacies or use baking soda as modern substitute)

Instructions

1. 1In a small pot, combine water and soap to create a rich lather. Heat the mixture until it begins to boil.
2. 2Place the gold chain, earrings, or other jewelry into the boiling soap lather. Allow to boil for 3-5 minutes to loosen dirt and oils.
3. 3While jewelry is boiling, place magnesia powder in a heat-safe dish near the fire or on a warm stovetop to heat it through. The powder should be warm but not scorching hot.
4. 4Immediately remove the jewelry from the boiling lather using tongs and place it directly into the heated magnesia powder. Ensure the jewelry is completely covered with the powder.
5. 5Let the jewelry sit in the magnesia powder until completely dry. This will absorb any remaining moisture and help polish the gold.
6. 6Remove the jewelry from the powder and rub vigorously with a clean flannel cloth to bring out the shine. For embossed or detailed pieces, use a soft brush to reach into crevices and remove powder from intricate areas.