If you want to know how to clean jewellery you are in the right place. Our jewellery is water-resistant and tarnish-free which means it will last for years to come. But jewellery can still get grubby and should be cleaned regularly to reduce build-up and keep it sparkling. It's also important to clean jewellery regularly to make sure it's safe to wear. Today we are going to go through some general tips on how to clean jewellery as well as some specific ways to clean different types of jewellery.
General Jewellery Cleaning Advice
First, let's explain some basic rules on maintaining your jewellery and caring for it.
Remove rings
When washing your hands, applying beauty products or cleaning, remove all your rings. This will stop them from becoming grimy with build-up and ensure that your jewellery does not react with any cleaning or cosmetic products.
Don’t wear jewellery while swimming
Remove all jewellery while swimming to avoid chlorine from pools and saltwater from the sea. These can both possibly damage your jewellery.
Wear jewellery frequently
While most jewellery will remain tarnish-free, it's good to frequently wear your jewellery. Silver especially becomes shinier the more it's worn (the friction slows down tarnishing). You can also store jewellery in an anti-tarnish bag.
Get jewellery checked regularly
Getting your jewellery checked regularly by a reputable jeweller can ensure your jewellery will be with you for many years to come. A jeweller will make sure any stones are in good shape and the settings are secure. They will also be able to check links and loops.
Clean with care
Whenever you are cleaning jewellery make sure you use soft cloths and mild cleaning solutions. A little bit of dish soap will be sufficient for most jewellery. However, make sure you research how to clean your specific type of metal and gem before starting.
How to Clean Silver Jewellery
Silver jewellery is usually the most important metal to take care of. Here are a few tips on how to clean silver jewellery:
- Soak the silver jewellery in the solution for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Use a soft-bristle brush, such as a toothbrush, to clean the jewellery. Make sure to focus on any crevices or hinges.
- Rinse the jewellery in clean water.
- To dry, gently rub jewellery with a microfiber towel or soft cloth. Do not use paper towels as they may scratch the silver.
As in the previous section, silver jewellery will remain tarnish-free when worn frequently. The constant friction of wearing silver against your body will lightly buff the metal.
How to clean Gold jewellery
You can clean gold jewellery in much the same way as silver jewellery. Here is a process for cleaning:
- Mix a bit of washing up liquid in warm, not hot, water in a small bowl or tray.
- Add a few drops of ammonia or a splash of white vinegar.
- Allow to soak for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Carefully brush the jewellery with a small soft toothbrush.
- Place in clean water to rinse any cleaning residue off.
- Air dry or carefully towel-dry with a soft cloth.
How to clean rose gold jewellery
You can clean rose gold jewellery in the same way as gold. Just ensure to use a lint-free cloth and be gentle as rose gold can be softer and more prone to scratches.
How to clean gems in jewellery
To clean gemstones, first decide on the method for the metal the gem is set into. Gemstones are usually very strong and so the metals are more likely to be damaged. However, It's always good to check the gem used and make sure you don't use anything too harsh for the gem. The same rules should apply to cleaning gemstones. Use warm not hot water, mild cleansers and soft toothbrushes and cloths to clean.
Looking after your Jewellery Collection
It's important you know how to clean your jewellery but also how to care for it in general. Storing your jewellery well is just as important as cleaning your jewellery and will help you avoid tarnish and tangles. If you need any help selecting items from our jewellery collection please get in touch.
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