How can I clean this beautiful candle stick?
by
Linda
+8
I have had this for a very long time. I’ve tried cleaning it with toothpaste, ketchup, Dawn. Those have not worked. These are pictures. It’s very difficult to read the words on the bottom. I had to use a magnifying glass. I think it says:
APOLLO
EPNS
MADE IN THE USA BY
BERNARD RICE’S SONS, INC
(there is a box around the B, R and S)
4433. 8
£TCHARDT
(the first character is an odd one and that’s as close as I can get with my phone’s keyboard)
DESIGN PAT’D APR 22’ 24
I think this would be so much more beautiful if it cleaned up. Anyone have any advice?
Thank you!
This is the bottom
Here's a link about your candlestick. It shows some of the marks.
https://www.silvercollection.it/USASILRICE.h
Since this company made silver pieces, any good silver polish would work to clean it up but I would check with an expert so you don't ruin any value the candlestick may have.
Sometimes the patina of aging is what collectors want. So cleaning it or polishing it may reduce the value. Research the marks and see what it is worth before you decide to polish it.
These are marks they used. Went out of business in 1950. Definitely check with an expert. Don't do anything more to it. Collectors look for items with the patina. It may have some value.
https://www.silvercollection.it/USASILRICE.html
Clear space on your table or counter for a glass baking dish lined with aluminum foil (shiny-side up) or an aluminum baking dish. Combine the baking soda and salt. Then add vinegar and boiling water. The simple (but fun-to-watch) chemical reaction should begin to remove the tarnish immediately. This cleaning agent is a great option for many things, including your tarnished silver. Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl of lukewarm water. Let the silver soak for two to three hours.
Instructions for Making Homemade Silver Cleaner:
I agree with Ann about checking with a professional about the care of your candlestick. Failing that, I'd purchase a good silver polishing product and use it according to directions.
I believe it's supposed to have dark discoloration as part of the character. But if you want to remove, try a marble cleaning paste and a toothbrush. I like BioClean.
Wright's silver cream does a good job of removing tarnish.
I use blue dawn detergent on items like this and it always comes clean you may try soaking it for a few minutes. Is it metal?
I use old nylons (leotards) to clean all of my candle holders, aswell as my candles themselves. They remove a very thin layer of wax, and with it all the dust ect that can build up on them. Works remarkably well!!!
Epns is usually silver plate. A sliver polish should clean it up but if you have concerns, take it to an appraiser for more information.
Inquire with an expert about candlestick maintenance. In the event that that didn't work, I'd get a reliable silver polishing product and follow the instructions.