Jewelry cleaners are products you can buy to help keep your precious metal and gemstone jewelry shiny and sparkly. While some may be harsh and can damage certain gems, there are a few natural cleaners you can use that are safe for most pieces of jewelry. In addition to using a cleaner, there are some best practices for keeping your jewelry clean between professional cleanings.
If you’re a jewelry lover, chances are you have quite the collection. But if you’re not careful, your favorite necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings can get dirty or lose their shine. The dirt, oils, and chemicals from your daily life can cause your jewelry to tarnish or become dull. Regular cleaning is a great way to keep your jewelry looking its best.
Whether you’re an amateur jeweler or a seasoned collector, these jewelry cleaners can help restore your treasures to their original glory. They’re a lot easier to use than you might think. Plus, some of them are so effective that they even rival professional jewelry cleaners.
You can use these cleaners to polish silver or ring chains, remove gunk from the surface of your pearls and emerald beads, and even remove stains from gemstones. Some cleaners are liquids, while others are powders, foams and gels. And some are made specifically for jewelry, so they’re gentler and safer than household cleaners.
There are also electronic cleaners that use water and high-frequency sound waves to agitate and wash the jewelry inside. But be careful: An ultrasonic cleaner can snag, scratch and loosen your jewelry, so you should only use one for your most prized pieces.
Many professional jewelers use ultrasonic or steam cleaners to remove residue from their pieces, especially diamond engagement rings and wedding bands. These machines can cost hundreds of dollars, but you can purchase a similar machine for at home use.
You can use these devices to safely and effectively clean most kinds of jewelry, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully because some are designed for specific metal types. And like the manual cleaners, some of these devices require an expert to operate.
For less expensive pieces of jewelry, you can clean them by hand with a mild solution. To do this, simply mix together a solution of equal parts white vinegar and dishwashing liquid. Soak your jewelry for a few minutes and then use a soft brush to scrub off any remaining grime. Then, rinse it in cool, clean water and pat it dry with a lint-free cloth.
