“Silver is meant to shine!” is a phrase that has echoed through hundreds of conversations on silver polishing. This elemental metal is much beloved in part for its ability to shine, brightening homes and moods wherever it is placed. And for many types of silver it is true. In this brief review, we will discuss some aspects of silver polishing, products, and other nuances of silver finish. If you are unsure of whether to polish or not yourself, it is recommended you consult a professional, as poor polishing materials and technique can cause dramatic damage. What is tarnish? As silver is exposed to air, its outermost surface binds to sulphur compounds in air and forms silver sulphide that give the silver a dark, eventually near black, finish. Additionally, many silver items are made of alloys that include other elements such as copper that similarly discolor. As an aside, these alloyed elements are the reason that, contrary to some beliefs, means that items made of gold too can tarnish.