Jewelry cleaner is a cleaning product used to remove oil, dirt and tarnish from gems and precious metals. Most jewelers recommend that customers clean their jewelry on a regular basis to keep it looking new and bright. There are many options for cleaning jewelry, including professional ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners. It is important to make sure that a customer selects the proper product for their specific needs and jewelry type. A gentle jewelry cleaner can keep precious gemstones, diamonds and other delicate pieces lustrous and beautiful for years to come.
The ultrasonic cleaning process uses high-frequency sound waves to agitate water molecules, creating a powerful cavitation effect. The implosion of these bubbles breaks down the bonds that hold dirt and other contaminants to the surface of a piece of jewelry. This allows for a deep and thorough cleaning without damaging the item. An ultrasonic cleaner can be purchased from most jewelry stores, and they are relatively easy to operate. The user simply places the jewelry into the cleaner’s basket or tray, and then lowers it into the tank. A cycle typically lasts a few minutes. Extremely dirty items may require multiple cycles to fully clean. After the jewelry is removed, it is rinsed in clean water, and then buffed with a cloth for a sparkling finish.
Professional ultrasonic cleaners also include a drainage system for the disposal of the cleaning solution, as well as a filter to prevent clogs. Some units have a safety feature that automatically shuts off the unit when the cleaning cycle is complete, preventing overuse or mishandling of the machine. A programmable timer can be set to ensure that the jewelry is submerged for the appropriate amount of time.
Most jewelry cleaners are formulated to be safe for the majority of precious stones and metals, but it is important to always check the label to make sure that a particular cleaner is suitable for a specific piece of jewelry. For example, silver-plated jewelry requires a special formula to avoid discoloration. Similarly, costume jewelry and oxidized sterling silver require different products to remove stubborn stains.
While it is possible to purchase a home ultrasonic cleaner, many jewelers choose to use professional models in their stores. They can be programmed to operate on a specific frequency and temperature range, and some offer adjustable solution concentrations. Some professional models are portable, making it easy to move them from counter to table to work area.
Some professional ultrasonic cleaners include accessories such as a brush that can be used to reach hard-to-reach areas of the jewelry, and a basket that accommodates larger items. Other tools include an ice pick for getting under settings, a pad that cleans the nooks and crannies of prongs and other tightly set stones, and a wedge that helps to loosen and remove large pieces of dirt. These brushes and other tools can also be used to clean more specialized items, such as gold plated or gold vermeil jewelry, which often contains base metals that are sensitive to water.
