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In a Pickle

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Categories: Instruction and information; Jewelry

Word count/read time: 500 words; 2 minutes

When you need a pickle nothing else will do. That goes for food as much as jewelry. While you generally wouldn't want to eat the latter's version, it's surprising how similar the chemicals can be. That's how it got its name.

Pickling removes flux and surface oxidation from metals. While there are mechanical methods to do the same they are not as effective and can be more harmful than dunking it in a vat of acid.

There are numerous pickles from the least-harmful, environmentally friendly ones that you could literally drink to the harsh acids that you wouldn't want to touch or breathe. It all depends on what, how, and when you desire results as well as what is being pickled.

I use sulfuric acid (diluted drain cleaner/clog remover available at any DIY store), citric acid (widely available, a quality food store will have it), or Sparex #2 (jewelry supply store). Inexpensive DIYs include white vinegar and salt (some add hydrogen peroxide for faster results) or lemon juice (which is citric acid with tasty flavorings, lol).

Usually the pickling solution is heated to a scalding temperature. Chemical reactions are generally faster; some just won't work otherwise. If maintained properly, all that's needed is a topping off of water to keep it going for sometimes years. Municipal water sources and wells have too many contaminants so distilled water is best.

Crockpots are ideal pickle containers. I have two sizes of triple crockpots and a normal-sized singular one. It is important to have enough room to submerge items quickly and fully. However, metals that are too hot risk warping, cracking, and billowing caustic steam.

Not all metals are welcome in the jacuzzi. Steel in any form is prohibited as it causes problems by plating the metal that's being cleaned. Once the pickle solution has been ruined, it is, well, ruined, and should be replaced with a fresh mix.

Just like staying in the water too long causes wrinkly fingers, leaving metal in the pickle too long can put a wrinkle in your plans. Surface pitting and discoloration are common. Other times it can actually dissolve solder which further weakens and uglifies it.

Though it might not cause issues mixing metals in the pickle (same solution for silver and gold, for instance), why risk it? If unavoidable, a test run will determine if that prized piece is wise to takes a swim. Cross-contamination is a nightmare.

Some gemstones are nearly indestructible though it's frowned upon to give them a bath. Ditto for pearls, porous stones, and heat-sensitive objects. The rule is that if it ain't metal then avoid dipping it altogether.

While many say the "natural" pickles can be neutralized and dumped down the drain, this is a bad idea. All the other stuff is the problem. There are ways to precipitate the metals but whatever remains is unsuitable for the drain or regular trash. Save it for the toxic chemical recycling day. Aquatic creatures, water treatment facilities, and septic systems appreciate it.

Posted by M: April 24, 2025

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