If you type “how to untangle a necklace” in Google search, one of the first things you will read is the suggestion to soak your necklace in baby oil to loosen the chain. However, that is not a safe practice, as baby oil and similar lubricants can actually damage your necklace and cause discoloration. Instead, follow jewelry care tips from the pros, and learn how to untangle a necklace chain in three simple steps without damaging your jewelry.
Step 1: Soak Your Necklace in Warm, Soapy Water
Using dishwashing soap or a non-scented shampoo, soak your necklace in warm water to loosen the chain. For a particularly tight knot, you can gently rub the knotted area between your fingertips to aid in loosening the tangle. While you can completely submerge your necklace in warm soapy water without damage, do not put a pearl into this solution, as it will damage the gem over time. In fact, if you can remove any pendants from your necklace that the knot isn’t blocking, we suggest doing so before soaking the jewelry as an extra precaution.
Step 2: Prepare to Untangle Necklace
Once the knot in your necklace is loose, it is time to prepare to untangle the chain gently. However, the last thing you want is for another knot to form in the process. Because of this, it is essential to lay your necklace on a flat surface, where the non-tangled part is safe from potential entanglement. That way, you can focus on the knotted area without the rest of the chain getting in your way.
Step 3: Untangle Necklace
Finally, it’s time to start untangling your necklace. If the knot is loose enough, you may be able to undo it with your fingers. If the knot is still tight, you can use a small, thin tool like a sewing needle to loosen the knot. Again, if you search the internet for information about how to untangle a chain, you will see people using various tools for this step, like a screwdriver. While this may work, the large head of a screwdriver has the potential to damage your necklace. So, we suggest sticking with a sewing needle. If you don’t have a needle on hand, then a safety pin or thumbtack can also work.
Once you have your tool ready, gently place the tip inside the knotted area and move it in a circle to loosen the knot. Continue this step until you can pull the untangled chain out of the knot. And just like that, you’ve learned how to untangle a necklace chain like the pros! However, if you can’t get a tight knot to separate, or the knot damages your necklace, you will need to consult a professional jeweler for assistance.
Protect Your Necklace with Fine Jewelry Insurance
Learning how to untangle a necklace chain is one thing, but what do you do if the knot causes damage to your chain, clasp, or another part of the necklace? That’s where having fine jewelry insurance comes into play!
If your necklace is worth over $1,000, finding an insurance policy that covers damage and provides preventative maintenance is vital. At BriteCo™, we not only offer comprehensive jewelry insurance but seek to be your one-stop-shop for all things jewelry. From teaching you how to untangle a chain to helping you buy an engagement ring, we’ve got the answers and services to make sure your jewelry receives the best care and protection whether it’s lost, stolen or suffers damage from a knotted chain. Plus, our claims process is quick and easy for your benefit! Get started today with a FREE jewelry insurance quote to learn more about how BriteCo™ can keep your necklace and other fine jewelry pieces safe and protected!
