Whether you wear delicate pearls and gemstones or sturdy gold and silver, your jewelry needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. Too much rubbing and submerging can damage your precious pieces, and too little cleaning can cause them to degrade over time.
Luckily, the process isn’t as esoteric as you might think. With the right cleaner, you can remove a wide variety of discolorations without damaging your treasures. From tarnish and patina to oil, corrosion, or even just dirt, most jewelry cleaners can be used on a variety of materials—although it’s important to pay attention to the instructions on the label as not all solutions are safe for all types of metals and stones.
There are a few options for cleaning your jewelry, including traditional and DIY homemade recipes. Baking soda or effervescent heartburn tablets, for example, create a chemical reaction when mixed with water that eagerly attacks grime. To use this method, place your jewelry in a bowl, cover it with the solution, and let it soak for a few minutes before gently scrubbing it. This is a good choice for gold, silver, and relatively durable gems like amethyst, citrine, and quartz. However, it’s not ideal for more fragile stoned jewelry like opals or pearls, and you should avoid using it on moissanite and morganite, as they aren’t hard enough to survive the treatment.
Toothpaste, another common DIY cleaning solution, can actually do more harm than good when it comes to your jewelry. Not only is it too harsh for most metals, but the acidic solution can scratch and dull the surface of stones, especially soft ones like pearls and opals. It’s also corrosive and can cause oxidation.
The best jewelry cleaners for your pieces will include ingredients that are safe for most metals, such as this popular Weiman product. The formula features a mix of surfactants, ammonia, and dirt-removing agents that help to remove tarnish, target grime, and restore shine. We love that this product is easy to use with a convenient tray and brush, which makes soaking your jewelry a breeze. However, the cleaning cloth is a bit on the flimsy side, and it’s not reusable.
The most important thing to remember when it comes to Jewelry cleaner is that every piece has different needs. You should try to clean your jewelry regularly, and be sure to check the label on your jewelry before applying any kind of cleaner. Using the wrong one can result in scratches, pits, and permanent discoloration, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry! If you’re unsure how to properly care for your jewelry, don’t hesitate to stop by any Rogers & Hollands or Ashcroft & Oak store location. We are happy to clean your jewelry and show you the proper techniques. You’ll be amazed at how great your jewels will look once they’re refreshed and polished!
