Cleaning your Jewelry the Right Way

The safest way to care for your jewelry is to bring it to a professional jeweler. They have the proper tools to accurately assess your pieces, clean them safely, and check for any damage or loose stones.

That said, if you need a quick solution at home, there are simple methods for cleaning most jewelry safely. Just be sure to know what type of metal or gemstone you’re working with to avoid damage.

Gold/ Silver

Gold and silver jewelry can lose its shine over time as oils, lotions, and everyday wear leave a dull film on the surface. Luckily, it’s easy to bring back that warm, rich glow with a little at-home care.

To clean jewelry, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm (not hot) water. Let the piece soak for a few minutes, then gently brush it with a soft toothbrush especially around clasps or behind stones where buildup collects. Rinse thoroughly in clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

Platinum

Platinum is one of the most durable and resilient metals, making it an excellent choice for securely setting gemstones and maintaining its beautiful shine over time. However, because platinum tends to hold onto oils, lotions, and soaps, it can lose a bit of its luster with regular wear.

To restore its brilliance, soak your platinum jewelry in a small bowl of Windex for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then dry carefully with a soft, lint-free cloth. This quick cleaning method helps remove residue and keeps your platinum looking bright and elegant.

Dos and Don’ts 

Don’t

• Clean pearls, opals, or emeralds at home or submerge them in water.

• Wear jewelry in saltwater or chlorine.

• Sleep or exercise with jewelry on.

• Store pieces together to avoid scratches and dents.

Do’s

• Monitor your jewelry for damage or loose stones.

• Have pieces professionally checked every six months.

• Know your gemstones and their care needs.

• Clean durable jewelry regularly with mild soap and water.