The ancient objects of the goldsmith trade are relatively well-preserved thanks to the special properties of the noble materials, copper, silver, gold, and jewels. Silver and copper are affected by hydrogen sulfide and acids to produce dark corrosion layers. Gilding does not protect these metals from this action. Mechanical damage is a general pattern, due to vibrations and accidents during processions. The traces of earlier repair, restorations, and polishing materials are evident. The original appearance can be restored by simple means, and in consequence, the expectations of the result of a restoration are very high. The effects of modern chemical and technical methods are such that the original metals appear bright and shining, but valuable details of the method of manufacture, finishing layers, and color are lost. A restoration plan includes an evaluation of all aspects of the object: the material history, the religious function, the aesthetic appearance, the documentary value, along with considerations regarding restoration materials and methods, reversibility, and compatibility. Preservation alone does not bring much visible change, but restoration always has. The bright metal gloss was always restored by polishing with various fine powders like charcoal, clay, and chalk. The effect, apart from the gloss, is abrasion and loss of authentic material. Modern electrochemical cleaning methods, beginning in 1900, have the advantage only in removing the corrosion products from silver and copper and not impairing the metal. The aggressive electrolytes have to be washed off effectively. A disadvantage is the necessary deconstruction and detachment from the wooden shrine. Also, jewelry may not be subjected to chemical baths. Still more recent is the gas plasma reduction of the corroded parts by the action of atomic hydrogen. Corroded metal is brought back to the metallic state; silver shows a whitish matte surface, which needs polishing. This finishing treatment is as damaging for authentic traces of the manufacturing process as the old-fashioned polishing. Complete cleaning of a metal surface begins the dispute about protective coatings, unless the object can be stored or exhibited in a harmless, inert atmosphere. Restoration is in fact limited to cleaning. Today making up for losses, hammering out of dents, and the repairing of deformations are out of the question, as is the finishing polish.