Jewelry cleaner is a liquid solution that safely and easily removes dirt, grime and other contamination from your fine jewelry. It can be found in a variety of forms, including wipes, cloths, and machines. Most formulas are friendly for a wide range of metals and non-porous gemstones, although certain methods may not be appropriate for softer metals or plated pieces. For the best results, be sure to follow all instructions and test any cleaner on a small section of your jewelry before using it on an entire piece.
The most common at-home method for jewelry cleaning is to use warm water and mild dishwashing soap. This can be effective for removing many types of residue, but it’s not powerful enough for heavier stains or heavy tarnish. For those with more time and a bit of patience, an ultrasonic cleaner is an option that uses sound waves to loosen the debris on your jewelry. This can be especially useful for hard-to-reach areas like tiny crevices or the bottom of a setting.
It’s important to avoid any harsh cleaners when using this type of product, as they can cause damage or void your warranty. Using abrasive scrubbers or brushes is also not recommended, as these can scratch your jewelry. For this reason, it’s a good idea to purchase a soft-bristled brush made specifically for jewelry cleaning.
Toothpaste is another popular DIY jewelry cleaner that should be avoided. This is because toothpaste is abrasive and can loosen or scratch your stones. In addition, it’s corrosive to some metals and is particularly damaging to pearls and opals.
Using a tumbler is an excellent way to gently polish your jewelry, but it can also be very dangerous. These devices are motor driven, rotating barrels filled with ceramic or stainless steel shot. Items of jewelry are placed inside, and the rotation and mechanical action gradually polishes them. These can be very effective for softer metals and buffed gemstones, but they should never be used on glued or set gems (like amber or pearls) as they can crack them through thermal shock.
A lint-free jewelry cloth can also help keep your products clean and sparkling. This simple cloth can be used to quickly remove smudges and skin oils from your jewelry pieces. It can be especially helpful for diamond rings, which need to be cleaned frequently to prevent dulling or smudges that impair their ability to sparkle and reflect light. This simple, inexpensive product can make a big difference in how your jewelry looks in your showcase. If you don’t have a lint-free cloth on hand, a clean microfiber cloth can also be used. Be sure to store your jewelry properly after cleaning it, so it doesn’t get damaged or tangled. This can be done by placing it in a soft pouch or box, and keeping it separate from your other jewelry. It’s also a good idea to store your jewelry away from heat sources, such as direct sunlight, as this can weaken the material.
