Here are five simple methods to make your gold jewellry shine brilliantly, including tips for white gold and gemstone-encrusted pieces.
Jewellry, much like self-care, needs attention, care, and time. We often encounter situations where our favorite pieces lose their shine or become tarnished. Fortunately, it's entirely possible to rejuvenate them, restore their beauty, and enjoy their appearance once again, all by yourself at home.
Are you looking to upgrade your jewellry? At the Vilavi store, you'll certainly find the perfect gold jewellry to suit your tastes.
How to clean gold: Five effective methods
Even with the utmost care, jewellry is still susceptible to contamination. Dust, dirt, rain, sweat, and exposure to chemicals and cosmetics inevitably affect them. This can diminish their aesthetic appeal and be disheartening.
Thus, removing these contaminants yourself is advisable before they become ingrained. When selecting a cleaning solution, it's crucial to consider the type of finish, as well as any inlays or stones present. Some materials require gentle handling, while others can withstand various cleaning agents. We now introduce to you five effective products for cleaning gold jewellry*.
- Soap Solution
Gold jewellry can be effectively cleaned using a simple soap solution. Mix one teaspoon of liquid soap or a small piece of bar soap in a glass of water. Submerge the jewellry in this solution for an hour, or you can heat it for 10 minutes in a moderate water bath. Clean the items with a toothbrush to remove any soap residue, then rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
- Toothpaste
A quick way to clean your gold jewellry is by using regular toothpaste. Ensure you use only white toothpaste without any added substances or whitening properties and avoid tooth powder. Apply the toothpaste evenly over the jewellry's surface using a soft brush and gently scrub away the dirt. After cleaning, rinse the jewellry and dry it.
- Saline Solution
This method is ideal for those who are not in a rush. A saline solution effectively removes dust and dirty deposits, especially around the settings where stones are mounted. In a glass of hot water, mix three tablespoons of table salt. Submerge your jewellry in this solution for 10-12 hours. Afterward, rinse it with water and dry it. Ensure you use only dissolved salt to prevent scratching the jewellry.
- Ammonia
Ammonia is a quick and effective solution for eliminating tarnish and stains. Mix one teaspoon of ammonia and one teaspoon of shampoo in a glass of warm water. Lower your jewellry into this warm mixture and stir gently - the dirt and plaque will start to vanish before your eyes. Once done, remove the jewellry, rinse it thoroughly, and dry it.
- Hydrogen Peroxide
Small stains on your gold jewellry can be easily removed through polishing: dampen a cloth with a 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide and gently wipe them off. For more stubborn cases, a solution is recommended: mix two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with one teaspoon of ammonia and a bit of soap in a glass of warm water. Leave the jewellry in this solution for three hours. Afterward, rinse it with water and pat it dry to restore its shine.
How to clean gold jewellry with precious stones
Gemstones add a unique charm to jewellry but also complicate the cleaning process. Dust and dirt tend to accumulate in the crevices and mountings, so using a soft brush to reach these difficult spots is essential.
When cleaning such items, it's equally important to consider the condition of the stones. The cleaning methods mentioned earlier are generally suitable, but before starting the "operation," make sure to familiarise yourself with the specific care requirements of each "patient." For example, opals can be easily scratched by salt, emeralds are sensitive to high temperatures, and acids and alkalis can damage pearls.
For the stones, use alcohol-based cleaning products that are free of dyes. During the cleaning process, be gentle and avoid rubbing the jewellry too vigorously to prevent damage to the stones or loosening their settings.
How to clean white gold
White gold is distinguished by a rhodium coating, which protects the jewelry from dirt and deformation and provides a moon-like sheen. The best way to clean such jewellry is with a soap solution. However, there is an alternative method: soak the jewellry for no more than half an hour in a mixture of ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, then rinse thoroughly with water and dry.
Important! If you notice yellowing on white gold, this indicates that the rhodium layer has been compromised. In such cases, cleaning alone won't suffice, and the piece will need re-plating with rhodium, which is a different process altogether.
How to clean gilded jewellry
When cleaning gilded jewellry, the key is to handle it gently to avoid removing the delicate layer of gold. Avoid aggressive methods and sudden movements.
Place the jewellry in a solution made from 1 liter of warm water, one teaspoon of laundry detergent or regular soap, and 5-6 drops of ammonia. Let it soak for 2-3 hours, then rinse with water and dry. A suede or lint-free cloth can be used for polishing to achieve a brilliant shine.
Can vinegar be used? While vinegar can clean gold jewellry, it's important to note that it can harm gemstones and strip off gilding. It's also advisable to avoid solvents and harsh chemicals like Windex for cleaning gilded items.
How to prevent gold jewellry tarnishing
Gold has the potential to last indefinitely with proper care. To maintain its beauty :
- Protect it from moisture and UV light exposure.
- Remove your jewelry before engaging in sports activities, visiting a beautician, or getting a manicure.
- Store your pieces separately from each other.
- If your jewelry comes into contact with any liquid, promptly wipe it dry.
Following these straightforward tips will ensure your jewelry remains pristine for many years.
How often should you clean gold jewellry?
If you frequently use lotions and hand sanitizers, it's advisable to lightly clean your gold jewelry once a week. Earrings and necklaces, which can accumulate residues from hairspray and perfume, should also be cleaned regularly to maintain their shine and cleanliness.
* Consult a Professional Jeweller! The most dependable way to clean your jewellry is to seek the services of a professional jeweller. They have access to specialised equipment like ultrasonic machines and steam cleaners. This service typically costs around £20.
