best 3 ways to clean gold jewelery at home
If your gold jewelry has stopped shining, don’t worry, in this article, you will find 3 easy ways to clean your gold jewelry to look like new. But first, let’s look at the properties of gold jewelry.
The most popular gold jewelry is 14k & 18K, since it’s more resistant for everyday wear than the pure 24K. We always recommend purchasing 24K gold jewelry for statement pieces that you will use for particular events, and 14K & 18K for jewelry you look forward to implementing as your everyday essentials.
TIP 1 - WATER & SOAP
Neutral soap or Dish soap are effective detergents to clean your gold jewelry. This method is the gentlest way to clean gold. Remember gold is a soft metal, especially considering its purity. So it is important to go about it as gently as possible.
Things you will need:
- Soap (Neutral or Dish soap)
- Two- bowls (glass or ceramic, medium or small depending on the quantity of jewelry you will clean)
- Soft Toothbrush
You may be wondering: What soap is best for cleaning gold? Any neutral or commercial dish soap will do, see, the amount we will use is so small, that is not necessary to overthink it.
It’s recommended to clean your jewelry in the kitchen or bathroom sink. Note: ensure you cover the drain.
Instructions:
Step 1: In one of the bowls add ½ teaspoon of soap then add warm water (not hot).
Step 2: Place your jewelry inside and let it soak for 5 minutes. If your jewelry has stones or pearls skip the soaking.
Step 3: Brush. Gently massage your jewelry with the soft toothbrush.
Step 4: Rinse. Place the second bowl under the water faucet, ensure the water is lukewarm, and rise thoroughly, the placement of the bowl is to ensure you don’t damage or lose your jewel if it slips off your hands while rinsing.
Step 5: Dry & Polish. Gently dry your gold jewelry by dabbing a paper towel or any absorbent material, then use a jewelry cleaning cloth (if you don’t have one you can use a sunglass cleaning cloth). Bracelets, necklaces, and chains can be polished by moving the cloth up and down, while rings, earrings, and bangles can be polished in a circular motion.
With proper care and maintenance, your gold jewelry will shine and last for generations!
TIP 2 - THE MAGIC POTION (BAKING SODA & BOILED WATER)
It’s no secret that baking soda is a versatile ingredient whose uses extend far beyond cooking. This method is one of our favorites to employ at home because it is simple, effective, and sterilizes your jewelry.
You will need:
- One glass or ceramic bowl
- 1 spoon of baking soda
- A kettle or pot
Instructions:
Step 1 – Boil water (enough water to cover the jewelry)
Step 2 – Add a spoon of baking soda to the bowl, then add boiling water, stir and immediately place your jewelry (it’s hot!, so be gentle, you can use a spoon to place your jewelry inside)
Step 3 – Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4 – Rinse with lukewarm water. (reminder to cover the sink drain)
Step 5 – Dry & Polish. Use any absorbent material to dab dry your jewelry then polish using a jewelry cloth or sunglass cloth. Now your jewelry is as shiny as it can be!
Note: Be mindful not to employ this method with delicate jewelry with gemstones like opals, pearls, or coral—or gold jewelry with “glued-in” gemstones. On the other hand, Diamonds, sapphires, and water-safe crystals will do absolutely fine with this cleaning method.
TIP 3 - DRY POLISH
This method is perfect for traveling and any situation where you don’t have a lot of time to clean your jewelry. Easy, simple, and effective, take a look!
You will need:
- A hair drier
- A jewelry-polishing cloth
- Small towel
- Gloves
Instructions:
Step 1 – In your hand place the small towel with your jewelry inside (do not cover it).
Step 2 – Use the hair drier to apply heat directly to the jewelry for 60 seconds.
Step 3 – Ensure to wear gloves, now grab your jewel and start polishing. If your polishing cloth comes out black that means you did a wonderful job!
It is best recommended to use this method when you don’t have a large amount of jewelry to clean because it could be time-consuming.
TIPS TO REMEMBER
We recommend removing gold jewelry when swimming in pools due to chlorine.
Store your gold jewelry separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches, gold is softer than many other precious metals.
NOW LET'S DIVE INTO Q&A
Can I Use Toothpaste To Clean Gold Jewelry?
No, this is a myth and it is not recommended to clean your jewelry with toothpaste due to the harsh chemicals.
What Are The Best Hacks To Clean Gold Jewelry At Home?
The 3 easiest ways to clean your gold jewelry at home are Water & Soap / Baking Soda & Boiled Water / or Dry Polishing.
What Is The Best Homemade Gold Cleaner?
Baking Soda & Boiled Water method is the best because this magic potion will ensure to clean every corner of your precious jewel.
What Can Damage Gold?
Chlorine is gold’s worst enemy, with repeated exposure, it will weaken your gold jewelry’s structure and eventually lead to it breaking.
How Do I Make My Jewelry Shiny Again?
If your gold jewelry has lost its precious shine, you can employ any of the cleaning methods shared above, it is highly recommended to polish your jewelry every time you take it off and store it, this will allow maintain its vibrance for a longer period without the necessity to deeply clean it as often.
How Do Professional Jewelers Clean Gold Jewelry?
Professional jewelers use specific methods to clean gold jewelry. First, they soak the jewelry in an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner, the high vibrancy of the ultrasonic waves along with a chemical cleaning solution removes every tiny dirt particle on the jewel. The second step is polishing using a spinning wheel. And the last step is steam cleaning, which allows removing any residual dust, dirt particles, and brightening up the precious metal!
Can I Clean Gold With Lemon?
Lemon juice is incredibly acidic and works wonders to clean brass, copper and sturdier metals. It is not recommended to use lemon for cleaning gold jewelry because is too abrasive and it might cause chips, scratches and discoloration.
AT LAST
While the 3 easy ways to clean your gold jewelry shared above are the best way to clean your gold jewelry at home, there is no substitute for visiting your jeweler for a professional cleaning.
Your jeweler will know the proper procedures for your specific type of gemstone and metal, we recommend a professional cleaning every 5 to 7 years to ensure the maximum shine and care.
Here at Manuela Mejia Jewelry we not only attend to those needs but we also keep you informed about jewelry and fashion trends. We cater to customers who want to express their love and emotions with diamonds and fine jewelry. Offering concierge-level service for both custom and online orders. At Manuela Mejia Jewelry we constantly strive to deliver a grand personal experience without exceptions.
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