HOW TO CLEAN YOUR JEWELLERY
Jewellery is not just an accessory; it's an expression of your personality and style. Over time, even the finest jewellery can lose its shine due to everyday wear, exposure to the elements, and contact with lotions, perfumes, and oils. Regular cleaning can help maintain the sparkle and extend the life of your cherished pieces. Here's our comprehensive guide on how to clean various types of jewellery and metals.
Before cleaning your jewellery, it’s best to check the cleaning guidance that came with your product, as instructions can vary.
what is
Tarnishing
Most metals will tarnish over time due to dampness in the air, but how do you stop metal from tarnishing?
The best thing you can do is wipe it with a soft cloth each day after wearing it.
Store pieces in a closed jewellery box or in their bags, keeping the items separate to prevent them from scratching one another.
Tarnished Jewellery
Store Properly: Store jewellery in a cool, dry place. Use the packaging provided or anti-tarnish strips in your jewellery box to minimise exposure to air.
Avoid Moisture: Keep jewellery dry. Remove it before showering, swimming, or exercising.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your jewellery regularly to prevent tarnish buildup.
Avoid Chemicals: Keep jewellery away from household chemicals, lotions, and perfumes, which can accelerate tarnishing.
Rose Gold & Gold
Materials Needed:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft toothbrush
- Soft cloth
Steps:
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
- Soak your gold jewellery in the solution for about 15-30 minutes.
- Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the jewellery, especially in crevices.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Dry with a soft cloth and buff to a shine.
Silver
Materials Needed:
- Baking soda
- Water
- Soft cloth
- Aluminium foil
- Bowl
Steps:
- Line a bowl with aluminium foil.
- Mix baking soda with water to create a paste.
- Place the jewellery in the bowl and cover with the paste.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently rub with a soft cloth.
- Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly.
FAQs
For pieces you wear regularly, it's a good idea to clean them every couple of weeks. For items worn less frequently, a monthly clean should suffice.
Yes, baking soda is safe for many types of jewellery, particularly silver. However, it should be used carefully, and it's best to avoid using it on softer gemstones or gold.
Vinegar can clean some types of jewellery, such as gold and gemstones, but it should be used with caution. Avoid using vinegar on pearls and other porous stones as it can damage them.
Use a mild soap and water solution, and a soft toothbrush to clean around the stones. Be gentle and avoid soaking if the stones are glued in place, as this could loosen the adhesive.
Store your jewellery in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container or zip-lock bag. Use anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packs in your jewellery box to absorb moisture. Also, avoid exposure to chemicals and moisture.
Wipe pearls and organic stones with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid soaking them in water or using harsh chemicals. It's also a good idea to have pearl jewellery restrung every few years if worn frequently.