As a glittering display of jewelry goes on show at Baselworld, consumers still feeling a financial pinch can spruce up their old jewelry without spending a fortune.
The international watch and jewelry show will display watches, jewelry and precious stones from over 2000 global companies during its seven-day run, which started March 18. But Ben Goldfarb, CEO of alternative use website AltUse.com, says that new purchases can be unnecessary if older items can be given a new lease of life.
"Many people have old jewelry that they have inherited or forgotten about lying around," he explains. "Bringing them back to a shine can be very easy using everyday products."
Make-at-home AltUses for jewelry
Banana Silver Polish
AltUse suggests blending a banana to make an excellent, environmentally friendly silver polish. Coconut oil or bicarbonate of soda can boost the shine even more.
http://www.altuse.com/polish-silver/a921.html
Toothpaste Silver Polish
Toothpaste, rubbed in with first the fingers and then a clean cloth, also makes a good alternative to silver polish, says AltUse.
http://www.altuse.com/silver-cleaner/a707.html
Beer Gold Cleaner
Putting gold in a bowl of beer can help clean it up. AltUse suggests leaving for a few minutes and then shining with a polishing cloth.
http://www.altuse.com/cleaning-gold-jewelry/a727or0t6i1.html
Chalk Storage
Adding a piece of chalk, wrapped in cheesecloth, can absorb moisture in jewelry cases. Stored with silver, it will slow down tarnishing considerably, says AltUse.
http://www.altuse.com/reduce-moisture/a1253.html
Alternative uses provided by AltUse - find out more at http://www.altuse.com/
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