Swirl Silver
January 18th, 2010
A Guide to Cleaning Silver Jewelry
Cleaning silver jewelry is not difficult. Making it a regular habit is the single most important thing you can do to keep your favorite necklaces, bracelets and earrings looking their best.
This metal, as you already know, tarnishes over time. The technical name for tarnish is silver sulfide. It is formed when hydrogen sulfide in the air reacts with the metal. Hydrogen sulfide is quite common, found in everything from onions and eggs to rubber and fossil fuels.
Although tarnish is inevitable, there are a few things you can do to slow the process. First, after use, it’s a good idea to wipe off your jewelry with a soft cloth before putting it away.
You can also take precautions to protect your pieces when they are stored. For example, you can store the jewelry with anti-tarnish strips. These strips contain activated charcoal, which absorbs pollutants in the air. You can also place packets of silica gel granules in your jewelry box to absorb any humidity in the air.
There are many products, including pastes and dips, that you can buy to remove silver tarnish. However, you have to be careful. Silver is a soft metal, and it is easily scratched. On top of that, many jewelry pieces are silver-plated, and the plating can be scratched off with abrasive pastes and cloths. If you jewelry has gemstones, make sure you chose a paste that is safe for use with gemstones. You will also want to avoid dips, as these can be absorbed by porous gemstones and will deteriorate them.
When used carefully, dips and pastes are effective methods for cleaning silver jewelry. However, there are also all natural methods using products found in your kitchen. One method is to make a paste of baking soda and water. Rub the paste on your pieces, rinse, then dry with a soft cloth.
Another method, which is good for cleaning the intricate detailed areas of your jewelry, is to place aluminum foil at the bottom of a glass jar or bowl. Fill the container half full with hot water, and dissolve a tablespoon or two of salt in the water. Place your jewelry in the solution, and shake or swirl it. Let it sit for a couple of minutes. During this time, the salt and aluminum work together as a magnet to pull the tarnish off your jewelry. When finished, remove your jewelry from the solution, rinse under clean water, and then dry with a soft towel.
Finally, it’s important to get in the habit of cleaning silver jewelry on a regular basis. The more tarnish that builds up on your pieces, the more difficult it will be to remove.
About the Author
Visit our site to search the hottest designer jewelry styles, including designs by Silpada and Lia Sophia.
Herc Fede Custom Ibanez 540R Radius – white-silver-black Swirl
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Amazing Swirl Circle Dangle Silver New Earrings $5.48 |
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72 WEDDING FAVORS-Murano Art Deco Letter Opener Blue and Silver Swirl Design $199.99 |
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72 WEDDING FAVORS-Murano Art Deco Letter Opener Silver and Black Swirl Design $199.99 |
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Aqua Swirl Murano Lampwork Glass Beaded Tibetan Silver Dangle Earrings Gift Idea $11.72 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Swirl Heart Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver 6mm Blue Topaz Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver 6mm Blue Topaz Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver 6mm Blue Topaz Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver 6mm Blue Topaz Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes I – S available $37.51 |
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Sterling Silver Onyx & Mother of Pearl Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $26.56 |
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Sterling Silver Onyx & Mother of Pearl Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $26.56 |
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Sterling Silver Onyx & Mother of Pearl Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $26.56 |
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Sterling Silver Onyx & Mother of Pearl Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $26.56 |
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Sterling Silver Onyx & Mother of Pearl Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $26.56 |
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Sterling Silver Onyx & Mother of Pearl Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $26.56 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $20.31 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $20.31 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $20.31 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $20.31 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Clubic Zirconia Solitaire Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $20.31 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Cubic Zirconia Double Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $29.69 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Cubic Zirconia Double Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $29.69 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Cubic Zirconia Double Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $29.69 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Cubic Zirconia Double Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $29.69 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Cubic Zirconia Double Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $29.69 |
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Sterling Silver Clear Cubic Zirconia Double Swirl Ring sizes K L N P Q & S $29.69 |
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60 Antique Silver Flower Swirl Pendant 35mm $20.99 |
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MENS SILVER AND IVORY SWIRL WEDDING DRESS WAISTCOAT SIZES 3-4 YR OLD, 34 38 42 $15.64 |
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Barbie doll black and silver swirl print long scarf untied Back to Basics piece $5.99 |
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GOTHIC SWIRL MOON STERLING 925 SILVER PENDANT NEW PUNK ROCK BIKER JEWELRY $29.99 |
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Vintage Sterling Silver – Handmade Abstract S Initial Swirl – Pendant XD250 $13.99 |
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Candy Swirl Murano Lampwork Glass Silver Dangle Earrings Christmas Gift Idea $11.72 |
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SILVER CHAIN SWIRL LADIES FASHION EARRINGS $10.55 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 16.5mm Interlinked Swirl Ring 3.50grams (size I – W available) $51.58 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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Sterling Silver 8.6mm Filigree & Plain Swirl Ring (size G – V available) $34.38 |
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10 Silver Plated Swirl Bail Beads 16x7mm $1.99 |
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Sterling Silver Squiggly Swirl Drop Earrings by Smile Jewellery $20.31 |
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9” STAINLESS STEEL Chopsticks HAIR STICKS Silver Pick $3.33 |
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Silver Hand Painted Triangle Swirl/Maze Purple 100% Leather Adjust Cuff/Bracelet $4.99 |
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Georg Jensen Silver Pendant # 207 SWIRL $189.00 |
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LOT of 2 Vintage Irice Perfume Bottle Round swirl glass FLORAL Silver France $24.00 |
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Brand New Sterling Silver Swirl Blue Crystal Nose Stud ( wire not ball end) $1.55 |
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CUTE Filigree/Swirl Rectangle .925 Silver Ring-8 $9.99 |
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93-94 Pontiac Firebird Formula Trans Am 16X8 OEM Silver Swirl Hub Caps Set Of 4 $29.99 |
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Fab Polish Silver Spiral Swirl Double Skull Head Bracelet Bangle Cuff Goth Punk $1.55 |
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SUPER SHINY SWIRL SILVER RING RHINESTONES ? CZ’S CZ 6 7 $28.99 |
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Solid Pink Swirl Single Core Murano Glass Euro Bead fits Silver Charm Bracelet $6.99 |
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SILVER CUFFLINKS DARK GREEN & WHITE SWIRL POLISHED GLASS TOP WEDDING GROOM PROM $4.94 |
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Green Blue Swirl Single Core Murano Glass Euro Bead fits Silver Charm Bracelet $6.99 |
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NEW designer George Simonton says pink silver swirl jacket coat size M $49.95 |
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Chunky Steampunk Antique Silver Tone Zipper Design Swirl Statement Necklace Set $24.99 |
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Vintage Crown Trifari Silver Tone & Faux Pearl Swirl Clip On Earrings $12.00 |
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VINTAGE MEXICAN STERLING SILVER & ABALONE SWIRL SCREW ON EARRINGS $14.99 |
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Sterling Silver Swirl Earrings $68.88 Sterling Silver Swirl Earrings Beautiful swirl sterling silver earrings will be the perfect finishing touch. Swirl earrings crafted from quality .925 sterling silver. Specifications: .925 Sterling Silver, Earrings, Made in the USA |
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Gibson Les Paul Studio Swirl Electric Guitar Silver/Blue Swirl $1599 Gibson Les Paul Studio Swirl Electric Guitar Silver/Blue Swirl |
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Gibson Les Paul Studio Swirl Electric Guitar Black/Silver Swirl $1599 Gibson Les Paul Studio Swirl Electric Guitar Black/Silver Swirl |
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Silver Cross Swirl Ring $63 This silver cross swirl ring is contemporary and sleek. The designconnects the band and ring top in a swirl ridged pattern. It’s great foryour casual or more laid back looks. |
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Silver Clear Fleur Swirl Barrette 5050 $29.99 Silver Clear Fleur Swirl Barrette 5050 |
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Sterling Silver .04ctw. Heart Swirl Pendant $149 Sterling silver .04ctw. heart swirl pendant. |
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6 Silver Swirl Plated Glass Gazing Globe $59 6″ Silver Swirl Plated Glass Gazing Globe |
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Dark Burlap and Warm Silver Swirl Wall Plaque $75 Dark Burlap and Warm Silver Swirl Wall Plaque |
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Sterling Silver Swirl Ring $44.4 Sterling Silver Swirl Ring Sterling silver rings make being fashionable look easy. Stay ahead of the curve with this bold design. Specifications: Sterling Silver, 32mm, Available in sizes 7 & 8 |
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Shimmering Swirl Chandelier Silver Each $49.99 The Silver Shimmering Swirl Chandelier has elegant swirls that circle the its shimmering strands with silver metallic disc ends. The silver swirl chandelier hangs 4 feet 9 inches and is 18 inches in diameter. The Silver Shimmering Swirl Chandelier includes a chain for easy hanging. |
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Silver Freeform Swirl Earrings $195 These ultra tasteful silver free-form swirl dome earrings are the picture of elegance. The all silver design is classic beauty at it’s best. Fasten with the clamp closure for pierced ears. |
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Swirl $10 Swirl |
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Silver Swirl Serving Set $74.99 This stunning serving set showcases finely sculpted handles with eye-catching swirl designs. |
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Silver Mask Rainbow Swirl Lollipop Personalized Rainbow Swirl Lollipops Pkg/12 $9.99 Our Silver Mask Rainbow Swirl Lollipop shows off a silver masquerade mask with silver and black glitter swirl accents. Each 1.4 ounce Personalized Silver Mask Rainbow Swirl Lollipop is individually wrapped, one-sided and measures 3 inches in diameter and 7 1/2 inches from the top to the bottom of their white stick. The Silver Mask Rainbow Swirl Lollipop can be handed out at your event. Assembly required. |
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Silver Mask White Swirl Lollipop Personalized White Swirl Lollipops Pkg/12 $9.99 Our Silver Mask White Swirl Lollipop shows off a silver masquerade mask with silver and black glitter swirl accents. Each 1.4 ounce Personalized Silver Mask White Swirl Lollipop is individually wrapped, one-sided and measures 3 inches in diameter and 7 1/2 inches from the top to the bottom of their white stick. The Silver Mask White Swirl Lollipop can be handed out at your event. Assembly required. |
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Sterling Silver Swirl Cuff Bracelet $325 Feel like youâre ready for a big night on the town with this swirl cuff bracelet in sterling silver. The unique swirl motif is part of her Signature collection, which is inspired by nature. This original creation has an adjustable bracelet and is full of sturdy comfort. |
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Swirl with Pearl Pendant Necklace $113 Keeping with the swirl motif, this swirl with pearl pendant necklace from the Signature collection is a show stopper. The fresh water pearl pendant dangles with ease inside the sterling silver swirl at the center of the necklace. Hanging from black leathe |
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Congrats Grad Silver Graduation Hanging Swirl Decorations $11.99 Includes (30) hanging swirl decorations in assorted sizes. |
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Open Swirl CZ Heart Sterling Silver Pendant $48 This gorgeous necklace features an open swirl cubic zirconia heart fashioned in sterling silver |
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Contemporary Swirl Silver and Merlot Decorative Mirror $273 -The Bassett Mirror features an interesting open frame swirl design with a two tone silver and merlot finish. |
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Weathered Silver Swirl Large Flush Ceiling Light $81 Featuring a weathered silver finish and etched swirl glass, this ceiling light is a smart choice. |
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Crystal Swirl Jewelry Set NE354 $31.5 Elegant crystal swirl jewelry set Available in Silver Clear |
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Silver/Gold Freeform Swirl Dome Earrings $245 For a look that’s elegant yet unassuming try these silver and gold plated free-form swirl dome earrings. The gold plated swirl design gives the classic style a little more ritzy feel.Fasten with the clamp closure for pierced ears. |
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Sterling silver dangle earrings, ‘Swirl and Twirl’ (Indonesia) $67.95 Turning in silver spirals, sterling earrings swirl and twirl. Wayan Asmana presents a dazzling design that is bold and modern. .925 Sterling silver |
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Pork Pie Round Drum Throne Silver Sparkle/Red Swirl $159.99 Pork Pie Round Drum Throne Silver Sparkle/Red Swirl |