The right jewelry cleaner is the best way to keep your precious gems looking dazzling. But not all cleaners are made equal — harsh chemicals and solvents should be avoided on delicate stones, while non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaners can be just as effective. And don’t forget to dry your jewelry after cleaning it — water marks are the enemy of sparkle.
Fortunately, there are some simple homemade jewelry cleaner recipes that can be used to clean your gems and metals safely at home. For example, by mixing white vinegar and baking soda in a bowl, you can create an easy solution that will quickly dissolve stubborn buildup and tarnish from silver pieces. Just be sure to test the mixture on a small area before applying it to your entire piece of jewelry.
Another DIY solution that we like involves using a little bit of soap and warm water to scrub away dirt and grime. We recommend soaking your jewelry for several minutes, scrubbing it gently with a soft-bristled brush and paying special attention to the nooks and crannies where sunscreen, lotion and other enemies of sparkle tend to collect. Then, rinse thoroughly and let your jewelry dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
Our top overall pick for a jewelry cleaner is this solution from Crest Ultrasonic Cleaning Solutions, which can be used to safely clean almost any type of jewelry — just follow the included chart to see how to best use it on different gemstones and metals. It works great on all of our testers’ jewelry (except for heavily tarnished sterling silver, which it is not designed to clean), with a convenient spray formula that makes the process quick and simple. The only drawback to this cleaner is that it smells a little like Windex and can make some people cough, so we suggest using it in a well-ventilated room or wearing a mask.
For a more budget-friendly option that still worked really well on all of our jewelry, we recommend these jewelry wipes. They work in a similar fashion to the aforementioned jewelry cleaner, but come in a smaller, compact box that’s perfect for travel or everyday use. They’re safe on all of our tested jewelry, but not recommended for sterling silver, opals, pearls, amber, malachite, or jade, so be careful with these if you have any delicate pieces in your collection.
While DIY jewelry cleaners can be useful and cost-effective, the best option is to regularly have your pieces cleaned by a professional jeweler. Professional jewelers have the specialized tools and advanced techniques, such as ultrasonic cleaning and steaming, to carefully and safely remove residue from intricate settings without damaging them. They also can spot worn spots or loose stones early on, helping you save money on repair bills down the road. Plus, regular cleanings help ensure your cherished gems are always as radiant as they were the day you bought them.
