How to Clean Gold Jewelry
Put a few drops of liquid dish detergent in a bowl of lukewarm (not hot) water., Soak the gold jewelry in the solution., Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristled toothbrush., Rinse each piece in warm running water., Blot dry with a soft cloth.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Put a few drops of liquid dish detergent in a bowl of lukewarm (not hot) water.
Mix gently.
Though ordinary tap water will work fine, for even better results, you can use sodium-free seltzer water or club soda.
The carbonation in these liquids can help loosen accumulated dirt and debris.
Don't use hot or boiling water, especially if your jewelry contains fragile precious stones.
Some precious stones, like opals, can crack if subjected to rapid and drastic temperature changes.
Similarly, don't use freezing cold water because the grime will contract and get tougher. -
Step 2: Soak the gold jewelry in the solution.
Allow the jewelry to sit in the water for about 15-30 minutes.
As it soaks, warm soapy water will work its way into the cracks and crevices, loosening hard-to-reach buildups of dirt. , Scrub each piece of jewelry individually, paying special attention to nooks and crannies where dirt may be hidden.
Use a very soft brush
- the softer the better.
Stiff bristles can scratch the surface of your jewelry.
If your jewelry is gold-plated (as opposed to solid gold), especially, stiff bristles can even remove the gold layer entirely! However, if there is any crevice that is not cleaning up, take a Q-Tip and rub it softly along the fissure.
Special brushes designed for this purpose are best, but most small, soft brushes (like, for instance, eyebrow brushes) will also work. , A good rinsing will help remove lingering dirt that's been loosened by the action of your brush.
Again, make sure the water isn't hot , especially if your jewelry contains fragile stones.
Don't let the water flow in a very powerful stream either as it pours a lot of strength on the jewel.
If you're rinsing your jewelry in a sink, plug or cover the drain so that you don't accidentally lose your jewelry if it slips out of your hands.
Alternatively, rinse your jewelry in a pasta strainer or metal coffee filter. , Then, let the jewelry sit out on a towel to air dry completely before wearing it again.
If your jewelry is still wet, wearing it can trap moisture against your skin, leading to minor skin irritation. -
Step 3: Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
-
Step 4: Rinse each piece in warm running water.
-
Step 5: Blot dry with a soft cloth.
Detailed Guide
Mix gently.
Though ordinary tap water will work fine, for even better results, you can use sodium-free seltzer water or club soda.
The carbonation in these liquids can help loosen accumulated dirt and debris.
Don't use hot or boiling water, especially if your jewelry contains fragile precious stones.
Some precious stones, like opals, can crack if subjected to rapid and drastic temperature changes.
Similarly, don't use freezing cold water because the grime will contract and get tougher.
Allow the jewelry to sit in the water for about 15-30 minutes.
As it soaks, warm soapy water will work its way into the cracks and crevices, loosening hard-to-reach buildups of dirt. , Scrub each piece of jewelry individually, paying special attention to nooks and crannies where dirt may be hidden.
Use a very soft brush
- the softer the better.
Stiff bristles can scratch the surface of your jewelry.
If your jewelry is gold-plated (as opposed to solid gold), especially, stiff bristles can even remove the gold layer entirely! However, if there is any crevice that is not cleaning up, take a Q-Tip and rub it softly along the fissure.
Special brushes designed for this purpose are best, but most small, soft brushes (like, for instance, eyebrow brushes) will also work. , A good rinsing will help remove lingering dirt that's been loosened by the action of your brush.
Again, make sure the water isn't hot , especially if your jewelry contains fragile stones.
Don't let the water flow in a very powerful stream either as it pours a lot of strength on the jewel.
If you're rinsing your jewelry in a sink, plug or cover the drain so that you don't accidentally lose your jewelry if it slips out of your hands.
Alternatively, rinse your jewelry in a pasta strainer or metal coffee filter. , Then, let the jewelry sit out on a towel to air dry completely before wearing it again.
If your jewelry is still wet, wearing it can trap moisture against your skin, leading to minor skin irritation.
About the Author
Noah Cooper
A seasoned expert in technology and innovation, Noah Cooper combines 2 years of experience with a passion for teaching. Noah's guides are known for their clarity and practical value.
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