Q&A for How to Untangle Necklaces

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What is the easiest way to untangle necklaces with tweezers?

Joseph R. Villarreal, G.G. (GIA)
Jeweler
Joseph Villarreal is a Gemologist and President of Villarreal Diamonds and Fine Jewelry based in Austin, Texas. With over 36 years of industry experience, Joseph and his team specialize in custom jewelry design, diamond sales, and consignment jewelry for private clientele. Joseph is a Graduate Gemologist from GIA (Gemological Institute of America) with additional certifications in Diamond Grading and Gem Identification. Villarreal is also a member of Jewelers of America and is a Jewelers of America Certified Senior Management Professional.

Joseph R. Villarreal, G.G. (GIA)

Jeweler

Expert Answer

Very carefully! Use one set of tweezers to grab onto the chain, and use another set to pull on a separate part of the chain that's looped around or knotted. Just keep in mind that this method can take a bit of time.

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Question

What can I do if the knot is too tight to pull apart?

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Staff Answer
This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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Staff Answer

Lay your necklace on a flat surface and gently tap the knot with a firm object to loosen the knot. You can use the back of a spoon or a metal file.

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Question

Can you use WD 40 to untangle 2 necklaces?

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Staff Answer

Yes, it is safe to use on silver and gold necklaces, and it can help loosen the knot. Just spray a small amount directly on the tangle, then use a needle to pick apart the knot.

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Question

What if I cannot get my silver chain untangled using any of these techniques?

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Staff Answer

If you can't untangle your necklace at home, you can always take it to a jewelry shop to have it fixed professionally. Fees vary by shop, but it typically costs around $15.

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Question

What if the baby oil makes the necklace stink?

Community Answer

You might have to add some type of jewelry cleaner to get rid of the smell.

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Question

Do you have any suggestions for untangling a layered necklace?

Community Answer

Yes. Stick a safety pin into the heart of the knot and pull. You can also use twine or string to separate strands.

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Question

Does this work for silver and gold necklaces?

Community Answer

This technique can work for any knot in any kind of necklace. Just be sure to use small needles as opposed to a small screwdriver (or something of the like) since silver and gold are relatively soft metals.

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Question

I use my hands instead of any of these objects. Is that okay if the knot isn't that hard to untangle?

Community Answer

Yes, as long as the necklace is untangled and there is no harm done to the necklace.

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Question

How do I separate necklaces?

Community Answer

Pick at the knot with needles. Insert the tips of your two needles into the middle of the knotted area. While in the knot, pick and pull the needles away from each other to try and open up the knot. When you begin to expand the space between the knotted areas, you can start to separate individual necklace strands.

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Question

Can I use vegetable oil to untangle necklaces?

Community Answer

Yes, you can.

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Question

How can I untangle tight knots?

Community Answer

Try using a pin or a needle to help pull apart the knots.

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Can I use olive oil as a substitute for lubricant?

Community Answer

Yes, you can.

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Question

Can I use tweezers instead of safety pins?

Community Answer

You can use both, if you'd like.

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Question

Can I use Vaseline to untangle a necklace?

Community Answer

Yes you can use Vaseline to untangle the necklace, that will work as well as any of the other things. Just make sure to wash it after so the Vaseline doesn’t stick in there.

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