How to clean sterling silver chain.

Line a ceramic or plastic bowl with aluminum (aluminium) foil.  Add two teaspoons of baking soda and a half teaspoon of salt.  Mix with two cups of hot water.  Stir to mix well.  Immerse your silver chain into the mixture and make sure that every part of the chain touches the aluminum foil.  Let it soak for a few minutes and as soon as the water is cool enough to put your hands in swoosh the chain around, making sure it touches the foil in all areas.  Pull the chain out and rinse very well with clear, cool water.  Dry completely on a towel.  You might want to use a blow dryer to make sure it's dry.  Be careful if you use a blow dryer that the chain does not get too hot before you pick it up or put it on your neck !!!    Your chain should look like new now.  If you use this method of cleaning on Native American jewelry that has oxidized backgrounds it may take the oxidation away so it is not recommended for this type of jewelry or for porous stones such as Turquoise.  You will notice an odor like rotten eggs when you are cleaning your chain.  This tells you that the chemical reaction is taking place and the tarnish on your chain is being removed.  Dispose of the liquid down any drain and be sure to rinse the bowl out well and wash it thoroughly.  Splashes of the mixture can dry leaving a white spot so be careful.