Jewellery is worn as a symbol of beauty and elegance, but over time, it can become tarnished, dirty, or even damaged. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your jewellery is essential to keep it looking its best and prolonging its lifespan.
In this guide on how to clean jewelry at home, we'll cover everything you need to know to keep everything in your jewelry box–your favourite necklaces, bracelets and rings–sparkling like new.
Types of Jewellery and Their Cleaning Needs
Different types of jewellery require different cleaning techniques. Let's take a closer look at the most common types of jewellery and their cleaning needs.
How to Clean Gold Jewelry
Gold is among the most popular precious metals used in jewellery. To clean gold jewellery, you don’t necessarily need a fancy jewelry cleaner. You can make a jewelry cleaning solution by mixing a few drops of dish soap with warm water.
Let the jewelry soak in the solution for a few minutes. Use a soft-bristled scrub brush, or a soft toothbrush, to gently scrub away dirt and grime. Rinse the jewellery under warm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth. Platinum jewellery can be cleaned using the same method as gold jewellery.
How to Clean Gemstones
Gemstones are often the centerpiece of a piece of jewellery. To clean diamonds, emeralds, rubies or sapphires, soak them in a solution of warm water and dish soap for 15-20 minutes. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away dirt and grime. Rinse the diamond under warm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.
Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can damage the gemstones.
Types of Jewellery
Each type of jewelry has its own unique cleaning needs. Necklaces, bracelets, and rings are some of the most common types of jewelry, and they require slightly different cleaning techniques.
When cleaning necklaces, it's important to pay special attention to the chain. Chains can become twisted or kinked, and dirt and grime can become trapped in the links. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the chain, and make sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove all traces of soap and dirt.
Bracelets can be difficult to clean, especially if they have intricate designs or small crevices. To clean bracelets, use a soft-bristled brush and gently scrub the entire surface of the bracelet. Pay special attention to any areas where dirt and grime may be trapped, such as the clasp or hinges.
Rings can become tarnished over time, lose their lustre from external creams, lotions, soaps and sanitizer. To clean rings, mix a small amount of soap with water. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the ring, being careful not to scratch any gemstones or delicate metalwork. Rinse the ring thoroughly under warm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.
Basic Cleaning Technique: How to Clean Jewellery at Home
Soap and Water Method
Cleaning jewelry at home can be done using the soap-and-water method, which is both safe and effective for most types of jewelry. This method is gentle and does not require any special tools or equipment, making it easy to do on your own.
Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water and soak the jewellery for a few minutes. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away dirt and grime. Rinse the jewellery under warm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.
When it comes to cleaning your jewelry, it's important to be cautious and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can cause permanent damage to your pieces. It's important to note that some materials may require specific cleaning methods that only a jeweler can provide. For stubborn stains or discoloration, it's best to consult a professional for expert cleaning.
Tips for Maintaining Jewellery
Cleaning your jewellery regularly is only one part of maintaining its beauty and prolonging its lifespan. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind.
- Remove jewellery before engaging in physical activities or household chores to prevent damage.
- Always remove your rings before engaging in strenuous activities using your hands, such as exercise.
- Store jewellery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Avoid exposing jewellery to chemicals, including perfumes, hairsprays, and cleaning products.
- Lay your jewellery flat to store.
- Have your jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected by a jeweler at least once a year.
Add a Sparkle to Your Day!
We hope you find this guide to cleaning jewelry helpful! As you can see, all it takes is a little time and effort, along with some common household products, to keep your jewelry looking great!
If you are in the market for something classic with a modern twist to add to your collection, check out the latest offerings from Jessica Jewellery. With a stunning array of bracelets, earrings, rings, and necklaces, you're sure to find your next favorite piece. Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover something truly unique and special.
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