How to Untangle a Necklace (In 2 Minutes)

How to Untangle a Necklace (In 2 Minutes)

You open your jewelry box and find a ball of gold spaghetti.

Rule #1: STOP PULLING. When you pull a chain knot, you tighten it. The more tension you apply, the harder it becomes to undo. You need to create slack.

Here is the jeweler's method to untangle chains.

The Lubricant Method (Baby Oil)

Friction is the enemy. By lubricating the metal, links slide past each other instead of locking.

1. Lay Flat: Place the tangled chain on a hard, flat surface (a table or counter). Do not do this in your hand.
2. Apply Oil: Put a drop of Baby Oil or Olive Oil directly onto the knot.
3. Rub: Gently mobilize the knot with your fingers to work the oil in.

The Tool Kit: 2 Pins

You cannot use your fingers for the actual untangling—they are too big. You need needles.

1. Take two sewing needles (or push pins).
2. Insert both needles into the center of the tightest part of the knot.
3. Wiggle Outwards: Gently pull the needles away from each other while wiggling. This forces the knot to expand.
4. Once you see a gap in the knot, use one needle to pull a loop of the chain free.
5. Repeat until the knot dissolves.

Once dissolved, wash the necklace with dish soap and water to remove the oil.

Prevention: The Straw Trick

How do you stop this from happening when you travel?

• The Straw Method: Unclasp the necklace. Drop one end through a drinking straw. Re-clasp the necklace outside the straw.
• Why: The rigid straw prevents the chain from looping back on itself. It physically cannot tangle.

Dealing with Multi-Strand Tangles

If two different necklaces are tangled together:

1. **Unclasp Everything:**Open the clasps of all involved necklaces. Usually, the clasp is the "anchor" causing the tangle.
2. Find the Ends: Work from the loose ends backward into the knot.
3. Patience: If you get frustrated, walk away. A frustrated yank breaks the chain.

Recommended Jewelry Care

Prevent tangles, damage, and loss by storing your pieces properly:

• SHUNKAIZS 2-Tier Tangle-Free Jewelry Stand: A sleek, tangle-free display with two tiers perfect for organizing necklaces, bracelets, and watches without knots.