<p>I have a strand of sterling silver beads graduated in size from three-quarters inch down to ‘really small’–21 inches long, a perfect sized necklace that I’ve worn and worn. I purchased it on a shopping spree with my mom 26 years ago. It was what I’d call a ‘good’ piece of jewelry, believe I paid around $150, more than I’d normally spend on myself at that time. (Isn’t it funny the things we remember?!) It has some sentimental value but is very practical and user-friendly, dresses up or down. Love the necklace, what can I say! It’s been a staple in my summer wardrobe for a quarter century!</p>
<p>Well, the silver is flaking off the beads and they are no longer shiny. Guess they’re sliver-plate, obviously not solid silver. I’m wondering how to rejuvenate the necklace. Is it possible to have the beads re-plated? Is this prohibitively expensive? I’ve heard of having silver tea pots, trays, etc. re-plated, but have no idea how or where…Or if it’s practical to even try. Any thoughts/experience out there???</p>
<p>Yes you can have your beads replated but it would probably cost more that the necklace did originally. You could probably buy a new one for less, maybe even in sterling. You can visit your local bead shop if they don’t have the exact one you want they can help you make it or connect you with someone who can make you one. I think I know the one you have I had one like it, bought it about 23 years ago. The beads were strung on a chain, alas the chain broke, but I still have the beads in a plastic bag.</p>
<p>I bought a graduated strand of sterling beads at the French Market in NOLA about 22 years ago for $15. They needed restringing recently for which I paid a neighbor $8. When they get tarnished I polish them with the same silver polish I use on my flatware.</p>
<p>A few years back flea markets always seemed to have vendors from Vietnam who sold all kinds of sterling silver jewelry.</p>
<p>Gotta say I was a totally different consumer 26 year ago! Probably would ask different questions today. To be honest I thought the beads were solid, but now that they’ve gone dull and I can see little shiny bits on the polishing cloth, etc, I’m thinking they were only plated. Purchased the necklace at what I believed to be a reputable store in a reputable mall in a metropolitan area. I broke the clasp (just like whats on my best pearls) about 8 years ago and replaced it, but the beads are strung on what appears to be metal wiring–definitely not string–and remains very sturdy. Maybe I was ripped off, but the fact remains I love the necklace and if you do the math–it’s about $5.75 per year or pennies per wearing–not a terrible investment. Rationalization? Maybe. Still interested in options as to how to restore/rejuvenate. I’ll visit a good jeweler and ask some questions.</p>
<p>Yippee! I’m so excited! i took the necklace to a local jeweler. Upon inspection, she thought it was solid rather than plated and asked if I had a few minutes so she could put it on the buffing wheel. She returned shortly and the two beads she’d buffed were sparkling! </p>
<p>Just got a call that the necklace is ready for pick-up. Rejuvenated (read: brand new) necklace for a mere $15! She said older silver pieces often need a “really good polishing with a good compound” to give them new life! Live and learn~ Glad I didn’t pitch it in the trash…</p>