How to Restore and Protect Jewelry from Tarnish and Fading
Protect Your Jewelry and Your Skin with ProtectaClear.
ProtectaClear is the perfect solution for preserving the beauty of your jewelry and safeguarding your skin from common metal-related issues. Our durable, invisible coating offers long-lasting protection against tarnish, oxidation, wear, and allergic reactions, ensuring your cherished jewelry remains stunning and comfortable to wear.
Why Choose ProtectaClear?
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Stops Tarnish and Oxidation: Keep your silver, copper, brass and other metal jewelry looking freshly polished indefinitely.
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Prevents Skin Discoloration and Allergies: Create a protective barrier between your skin and metals like nickel, stopping green marks and allergic reactions. ProtectaClear makes your jewelry hypoallergenic.
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Preserves Patina: Protect the unique beauty of jewelry with patina, preventing fading and wear.
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Extends Life of Plated Jewelry: Guard plated metals from peeling or wearing down to the base metal.
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Easy to Apply: Achieve professional, self-leveling results with a simple brush, dip, or spray application.
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Skin-Safe Once Cured: Enjoy peace of mind knowing ProtectaClear is safe for wear against sensitive skin.
Works with all Types of Jewelry
Silver | Copper & Brass | "Cheap" Costume | Plated | Beaded | Metal Clay | Wire Wrapped
Stop Skin Allergies with ProtectaClear
Stop Skin Allergies, Discoloration and Irritation with ProtectaClear
ProtectaClear seals jewelry, making it hypoallergenic and preventing the allergy problem, as well as darkening or staining of the skin. ProtectaClear will create a barrier to prevent the contact of nickel and other metals that can cause jewelry allergies. ​
Causes of Skin Allergies, Irriation and Discoloration by Jewelry:
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Body Chemistry: Your body's natural chemistry, sweat, oils and medications can react with metals, leading to discoloration (e.g., silver and gold turning green, sterling silver turning black).
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Inexpensive Metals: Many modern jewelry designs use less expensive metals like copper, brass and nickel, which are prone to tarnish and can cause skin discoloration and allergic reactions. The CDC estimates that 20% of people are allergic to nickel.
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Cosmetics: Creams, lotions, sunscreens, perfumes and even cleaning agents can accelerate tarnishing and some can cause abrasion that makes the metal tarnish even faster.​​​​​​
SILVER JEWELRY
Silver jewelry including delicate chains, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings is popular for its affordability, unique appearance, and versatility in design. Silver jewelry is durable and stylish but tarnishes and turns dark quickly and can also cause skin discoloration for some people due to metal sensitivity. ​Even sterling silver - which is an alloy that is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, can tarnish and cause black stains.
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Less expensive silver jewelry can be plated and the quality of the plating varies. Once the thin plating wears off, the base metal shows and there is no easy way to re-plate the jewelry. ProtectaClear keeps all of your silver jewelry sparkling and prevents the tarnish and wear of the silver plating. The clear, invisible coating will also make the jewelry hypoallergenic and protect sensitive skin from metal exposure that can cause allergies.
I use ProtectaClear on my silver and brass/copper jewelry creations to help protect it from tarnishing after it is sold. It works great! I highly recommend this product. It goes on smooth, thin and bubble free. ~Ken S. Lorena, TX
COPPER AND BRASS JEWLERY
Copper and brass jewelry is popular because it's affordable, strong, and can be shaped into beautiful designs. Many people enjoy the warm colors of these metals, which look good with most skin tones.
Copper has a unique reddish-brown color that adds warmth to any outfit. It's also believed to have health benefits, like reducing swelling and easing joint pain when worn against the skin.
Brass has a warm, golden color that looks like gold and can be found in many styles, making it suitable for any occasion. Brass is also tougher than copper because it's not as soft.
Both copper and brass jewelry are well-liked and can be unique, handmade pieces. They're great for making a bold statement or achieving a vintage or rustic look.
The main issue with copper and brass jewelry is that it tarnishes easily and can quickly turn your skin green or black. Some people also have allergies to these metals, which can cause itchy, red skin.
ProtectaClear is the solution to these problems. It stops tarnish and makes the jewelry safe for people with allergies. It seals copper and brass jewelry to keep it looking new and prevents sensitive skin from turning green or darkening. If you want to keep the health benefits of copper jewelry but avoid tarnish, you can simply apply the coating to the part of the jewelry that doesn't touch your skin.
"I have been using ProtectaClear for approx. 3-4 years now. Love it. It works very well to protect the jewelry pieces that I make from copper, brass and bronze. Many have a smooth shiny finish, some hammered & blackened, etc. It really works well as a metal sealant, which is a good selling point - many people are concerned about the metal oxidizing and having to clean it. With ProtectaClear, they don't have to!!!" ~ Debbie M. Warren, PA
PLATED JEWELRY
When shopping for jewelry, you may see the terms “plated” or “vermeil jewelry”. There is not just gold plating but also silver, rhodium and palladium plating used in jewelry. The process involves depositing a thin layer of the desired precious metal onto a less expensive base metal. Plated jewelry does seem like it is financially a better deal but there can be problems involved. Plated jewelry is significantly less expensive than solid gold or silver jewelry but has problems that can be avoided by protecting the thin layer of precious metal.
Plated jewelry can have a limited lifespan because the thin layer of gold, silver or other precious metals will wear off, can be easily scratched, abraded when it comes in contact with other surfaces and can tarnish. Plating is not water resistant and is highly sensitive to chemicals found in cosmetics, lotions and cleaning products. Contact with these products can cause the plating to deteriorate rapidly. Plated metals are difficult to repair so protection of the original precious metal plated on the jewelry is the best option.
So, what is the solution? ProtectaClear will seal plated metal jewelry and will help protect the plating from wear, scratches, tarnish and will make the jewelry hypoallergenic so it is safe even on sensitive skin. Keep your plated metal looking new and fresh.
"I work with recycled vintage tins & silver plated platters. I use ProtectaClear on all my pieces. It's the bomb." ~Tammie E. Pensacola, FL
INEXPENSIVE OR "CHEAP" JEWELRY
Inexpensive jewelry, often called "cheap jewelry," can be a fun purchase, but it rarely lasts. Pieces bought from places like Wish or Temu often tarnish or lose their plating quickly, sometimes after just one or two wears. Many users also report skin reactions or rapid tarnishing that reveals the low-quality metal underneath. It's concerning that some overseas manufacturers use scrap metal containing harmful substances like lead and cadmium.
However, customers have discovered that applying ProtectaClear to this inexpensive jewelry significantly extends its lifespan. It prevents plating from wearing off and creates a protective seal that makes the jewelry safe for sensitive skin, stopping allergic reactions. ProtectaClear is easy to apply and makes jewelry hypoallergenic. It's available in liquid form for dipping or brushing, or as an aerosol spray. While a small brush or dipping works well for liquid application, spraying with an aerosol is often easier for chains to prevent links from sticking together.
See just how easy it is to seal and protect your jewelry with ProtectaClear.
METAL CLAY JEWELRY
Metal clay is a unique, moldable material made of tiny metal particles mixed with a binder and water. When shaped and fired (heated at high temperatures), the binder burns away, leaving solid metal. Artists and jewelry makers love it because it can be molded and textured easily, allowing for detailed and intricate designs.
Once you've made a piece with silver, copper, or bronze metal clay, it can tarnish over time due to exposure to air and moisture. ProtectaClear will protect your beautiful and unique pieces from tarnish and wear. We have many jewelry creators who use ProtectaClear to protect metal clay jewelry.
I recently got into precious metal clay and was looking for a way to protect my pieces from wear and oxidation. I found ProtectaClear and it’s been amazing! Easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish.
~ Elleot C. - Comstock Park MI
BEADED JEWELRY
ProtectaClear is a popular choice for stiffening beaded jewelry, especially for delicate pieces like fringe earrings or intricate beadwork. When applied to beadwork, it creates a protective layer that helps maintain the shape and structure of the design and also helps protect beads from wear. The crystal clear coating can be applied in various ways, such as spraying, dipping, or brushing, allowing for precise control over the level of stiffness desired. A thin, even coat of ProtectaClear can significantly enhance the overall durability and appearance of beaded jewelry.
"Jewelry makers usually use floor wax. But Jill Wiseman did a video on your product so I decided to give it a try. Sooooo much nicer than floor wax. I was very pleased with the results. It didn't change the color of my beads and the sparkle came through! " ~Michelle M. Olive Branch, MS
"Great service and Protectaclear works fabulously to stiffen my beadwork and protect my metal. ~ Esther Marker Trivandrum, Kerala, India "
WIRE WRAPPED JEWELRY
Wire-wrapped jewelry involves creating jewelry by wrapping metal wires around gemstones, beads, or other wires to form intricate designs. Because these pieces are often made with metals like silver, copper, and brass, they easily tarnish very quickly. Tarnishing happens when these metals react with air, moisture, or skin oils, causing them to darken or discolor. ProtectaClear can be applied as an invisible protective coating to keep wire-wrapped jewelry shiny and tarnish-free. Thousands of jewelry makers use ProtectaClear to protect their beautiful creations.
I have to admit when I first ordered your ProtectaClear I was very skeptical only due to the fact I have ordered other products that did not work like they said it would. I started by using the ProtectaClear on jewelry I made for myself. My skin is so sensitive. After wearing the jewelry for a month, I was so impressed with the results. I no longer send out any jewelry unless they have been coated with ProtectaClear - it has completely stopped the oxidation and tarnishing. I have used ProtectaClear on all my jewelry designs ranging from earrings, pendants, necklaces, steampunk, filigree, wire names, rings and brooches. My customers enjoy the fact they don't have to polish my creations! ~Shirley J. Concord, NC
How to Clean and Protect Jewelry
QUICK INSTRUCTIONS
How to Use ProtectaClear For New Jewelry, Jewelry with Patina, or Jewelry that Does NOT Need Polishing:
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Clean: Solvent wipe with 99% isopropyl alcohol to ensure a completely clean and dry surface. Learn more about solvents.
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Apply: Apply ProtectaClear with a brush, dip, or spray. Its self-leveling formula ensures a smooth, invisible finish. See more in
For Tarnished Jewelry or Jewelry that Needs Polishing:
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Polish: Use a non-acidic polish like Midas Touch to restore a brilliant shine. If an acid-based polish is used, neutralize the acid with baking soda and water or EZ-Prep Neutralizer.
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Clean: Solvent wipe with 99% isopropyl alcohol to ensure a completely clean and dry surface. Learn more about solvents.
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Apply: Apply ProtectaClear with a brush, dip, or spray.
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For more in depth instructions, click here.
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Restore and Protect Your Jewelry Today! Join thousands of jewelry designers, manufacturers, and owners who trust ProtectaClear to keep their jewelry looking new while preventing skin allergies and darkening.
ProtectaClear is available as a stand-alone solution or in Kits with Polish.
Customer Reviews for Jewelry
"I work with recycled vintage tins & silver plated platters. I use ProtectaClear on all my pieces. It's the bomb."
Tammie E. Pensacola, FL
Jewelry Frequently Asked Questions
Is ProtectaClear safe on jewelry to be worn on skin?
Yes, ProtectaClear is safe on skin and is used by many jewelry designers and jewelry manufacturers. ProtectaClear will protect the metal as well as the skin of the wearer from discoloration. ProtectaClear will make jewelry hypoallergenic. ProtectaClear is practically invisible and is used on polished metal jewelry and even jewelry with patina on it.
How does ProtectaClear make jewelry hypoallergenic?
ProtectaClear is painted onto clean jewelry and provides a protective barrier between the metal and sensitive skin. Two coats are recommended on most jewelry to ensure the metal is completely covered so even sensitive skin is protected. ProtectaClear is skin safe once cured. It is thin and completely clear and will not change the look of the jewelry.
How is ProtectaClear different than clear nail polish?
Nail polish is a lacquer and does not have the protective properties of ProtectaClear. ProtectaClear has antioxidants in it to prevent tarnish as well as protecting skin from allergies. ProtectaClear is skin-safe once it is cured and is much longer lasting than nail polish for protecting jewelry and skin.
Can I use ProtectaClear on my jewelry with Patina?
Yes, ProtectaClear will look great with patinas like Liver of Sulfur and other patinas also. Just solvent wipe and apply ProtectaClear to protect the patina.
Can ProtectaClear be used on Stones or Minerals?
Yes, ProtectaClear can be used on stones and minerals and will enhance the look. However, delicate gems like pearls or opals should not be coated with anything. Also, coating soft plastic beads or non-metallic stringing material is not recommended. If needed, ProtectaClear can be removed if necessary with a Q-tip using a solvent such as Xylene.
Can ProtectaClear be used on Filigree Jewelry?
Yes, you can dip the jewelry or use an aerosol can of ProtectaClear to coat filigree jewelry. If the filigree is very tight, you can just blow it gently to break the surface tension of the coating so it adheres to the metal. Some people use canned air to blow out the coating from tiny holes.
Can ProtectaClear ruin my jewelry?
No, ProtectaClear is completely reversible. The coating can be soaked off or wiped off with a solvent like xylene or acetone without harming the metal or stones.
Directions for Coating Jewelry with ProtectaClear
4 Basic Steps
1. Polish if Necessary 2. Neutralize if Acid is Used 3. Solvent Wipe 4. Apply Coating
PREPARATION
NEW or METAL WITH PATINA
Solvent wipe the metal with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol, xylene or denatured alcohol to remove any traces of residue. This step needs to be done immediately before coating. Do NOT dilute or rinse the solvent. This step will ensure a completely clean and dry surface. Skipping this step will result in poor adhesion of the coating.
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Test a small area first. Solvent will NOT remove most forms of tarnish or patina.
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TARNISHED or OXIDIZED METAL
1. Polish or buff the surface to the luster desired with any metal polish you prefer (we recommend Midas Touch Polish). The metal can also be sanded or simply cleaned to desired appearance.
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2. Neutralize. THIS STEP CAN BE SKIPPED IF USING POLISHES THAT ARE NOT ACID BASED.
Midas Touch Polish does not contain acid, however many polishes do, check ingredient list for any type of acid. If you are unsure, complete this step.
Use EZ Prep Cleaner & Neutralizer in a 1:4 solution with water OR 1 cup baking soda mixed with 1 gallon of water. Dip or wash the metal with a cloth saturated with the neutralizing solution. Rinse with clean water. Dry with a clean cloth to prevent spotting.
3. Solvent wipe the metal with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol, xylene or denatured alcohol to remove any traces of residue. This step needs to be done immediately before coating. Do NOT dilute or rinse the solvent. This step will ensure a completely clean and dry surface. Skipping this step will result in poor adhesion of the coating.
The article to be coated must be scrupulously clean and dry. Preparation is very important. If you try to take shortcuts on preparation, you will likely not achieve the intended results and may need to remove the coating and start again. ProtectaClear can be removed with solvents like xylene.
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APPLICATION OF COATING
Personal Protection: Nitrile or chemical resistant gloves are needed to protect your hands (Rubber gloves will get sticky). If spraying any coating, eye protection and good ventilation is recommended. Apply the coating to a completely dry surface. Warming the metal with heat gun or hair dryer will help ensure metal is dry. Allow metal to cool before coating.
1. Pour the coating into clean, dry, metal or glass pan. Do not use plastic as the solvent can melt plastic. After you are finished coating, uncontaminated coating can be poured back into the can. Clean off the threads of the can before screwing the lid back on. This will help the lid from sticking.
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2. For application, use a natural-bristled brush, sponge-brush aerosol can, or sprayer. Items can also be dipped into the coating. For chains or other intricate items, spraying is the best application. DO NOT DILUTE COATING.
Brushing: Lay your items on foil and brush ProtectaClear on with a natural-bristle brush or a sponge-brush. Gently glide the brush over the surface without getting too much excess on the foil below. After an hour you can apply the 2nd coat. If you want to coat the other side of the piece, wait at least 2 hours before turning it over to coat the other side (use a new piece of foil to coat the other side on to avoid any wet coating sticking to the dry side) We recommend coating the “back side” of the piece first.
Dipping: You can insert an unbent uncoated paper clip through the eye of your jewelry piece to dip it. Dip the piece in the coating, and then pull it up. Let the coating drip for a few seconds. It is helpful to have a small "artist's paintbrush" to brush off the excess coating that may gather at the bottom and around the hanger. Hang the item to dry where it isn't touching anything else and have a piece of foil or something under it in case it drips. Make sure to check the item after a couple of minutes, to see if any excess coating has gathered at the bottom. Once the piece has dried for at least an hour, and is dry to the touch, you can apply the 2nd coat. Dip the item, smooth out the excess, and let it dry. Spraying: Hang the item and spray. You should be 5-6 inches away when spraying. Do not over spray, a quick pass is sufficient for each coat. Apply 2nd coat after 1st coat is dry to the touch, at least an hour.
3. Observe the coating while applying: if the coating separates or does not look completely smooth, STOP and re-clean the surface. Other chemicals present on the surface can cause separation and need to be removed completely.
4. Let the coating dry completely. It will self-level as it dries. If you see an area you missed, let it dry and then coat over the missed area. ProtectaClear is self-annealing; meaning the second coat will become part of the first coat. Wait at least one hour between coats or until the previous coat is completely dry.
CURE TIME: Under normal circumstances & with good ventilation, the coating will be fully cured after 4- 5 days. The coating will be delicate until it is fully cured. You can shorten cure time by gently heating the coating AFTER it is dry to the touch. Dry, coated items placed in a low temperature oven (160°F -180°F) for 1 hour will be cured. Coating MUST be cured before prolonged contact with other surfaces.
AFTER CARE: Do NOT use solvent based cleaners or abrasives to clean coated metal. Do not use cleaners with “petroleum distillates”. Suggested cleaners: Windex, mild soap & water or similar mild cleaners.