Jewelry catches dust, dander, and soap residue on its delicate surface. A regular cleaning routine is the best way to keep pieces looking their best. Whether it’s a precious metal ring or a vintage pair of copper earrings, the dirt and grime that collects on jewelry can dull its sparkle and make it appear dull and old. Thankfully, with the right jewelry cleaner, even the most dull and dirty jewelry can look as good as new.
Jewelry cleaner comes in a variety of forms, including liquid, gel, foam, wipes, and ultrasonic cleansers. Some cleaners are formulated for specific gemstones and metals, while others are safe for all jewelry types. Groshong suggests that consumers consider the type of gems and metals they have in their jewelry, as well as their lifestyle and budget when choosing a jewelry cleaner.
Most jewelry cleaners are corrosive and contain chemicals, but they must pass certain standards to be labeled as “environmentally friendly,” “non-toxic,” or “scent free.” Consumers with sensitive skin or allergies should also seek out a fragrance-free cleaner.
Some cleaners, like Windex, are too harsh and can cause scratches on jewelry. Toothpaste, a common DIY cleaner for rings, can also scratch metal and stone settings. But a clean, soft-bristle toothbrush is ideal for the job: its tiny bristles get into hard-to-reach nooks and crannies where lotion, sunscreen, and other enemies of sparkle tend to settle.
Many people choose to soak their jewelry in a solution of warm water and dish soap. Groshong recommends lining the bottom of a bowl with aluminum foil, pouring hot water and a few drops of dish soap into the bowl, and allowing jewelry to sit in the solution for several minutes. Then, rinse jewelry in cool water and pat it dry with a towel.
While the soaking method works for most jewelry, it’s not recommended for rings with diamonds or other precious stones. The acid in the cleaner can eat away at a ring’s setting. Using it to clean opals, emeralds, pearls, and other delicate gemstones can result in damage as well.
For this reason, most professional jewelers use a specialized jewelry cleaner to ensure that their clients’ expensive pieces come out looking like new. A reputable jeweler will provide a sample bottle of their specialized cleaning solution to customers so that they can try it out at home before purchasing a full bottle. The cleaner typically includes a dipping tray to place jewelry into and a reusable container for storing the finished product. The jewelry is then polished and returned to the customer with a fresh, lusterous finish. If your jewelry is made from precious metals or a combination of metal and gemstones, you can purchase a ready-to-use jewelry cleaner at most department stores or online. For a more thorough clean, you can also hire a professional jeweler to use an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner for you. They usually charge a small fee for this service, and most jewelers are familiar with the specific cleaners that work for their equipment.
