How to Clean Jewelry
Keeping your jewelry clean not only enhances its beauty, but also extends its lifespan. Whether you're dealing with everyday pieces or cherished heirlooms, understanding the right cleaning methods is essential. This guide covers various techniques and tools to help you maintain your jewelry's sparkle.
Polishing Cloths: A Gentle Touch
Moonshine® Polishing Cloth
- Reusable polishing cloth gives jewelry long-lasting shine with amazing ease
- Non-staining, easy-to-use cloth is impregnated with a specially formulated cleansing agent and non-scratching micro abrasives
- Removes tarnish from gold, silver, platinum, copper and brass (not for use on pearls or plated items)
- Use cloth until completely soiled (do not wash)
- Packaged by Goodwill Industries of the USA
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Polyester and Nylon Polishing Cloth
- Designed to be used on crystal and glass
- Removes dust and oils
- Can be used on touchscreen surfaces, monitors, camera lenses and more
- Can be hand washed for repeated use
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Blitz® BrassShine™ Tarnish Eater
- Designed to clean and remove tarnish from hard brass
- Can also be used to clean copper
- Non-toxic and environmentally friendly
- Made in the USA
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Blitz® Sterling SilverShine™ Cloth
- Can be used to clean any type of sterling silver, silver, or silver-plated materials
- Cleans and protects against tarnish
- No harsh chemicals or abrasives
- Non-toxic and environmentally friendly
- Made in the USA
Jewelers Rouge Polishing Cloth
- Two reusable polishing cloths in one
- One side is impregnated with the finest-quality red rouge for removing tarnish, while the other side is soft flannel for the final polish
- Recommended for use on precious metal (not for use on plated items)
- Made in the USA
Selvyt® Universal Polishing Cloth
- Can be used on metal and gemstone beads
- Removes oils and fingerprints, as well as dirt
- Unbleached woven cotton with a raised surface to lift particles from the item you're cleaning
- Can be washed and then is as good as "new"
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Selvyt Silver Cleaning Polishing Cloth
- 100% natural cotton woven using a special “W” binding system for a for a velvet-to-the-touch texture
- Specially formulated for use with sterling silver
- Raised surface fibers lift off dust
- Impregnated with an anti-tarnish agent
Selvyt Jewelry Cleaning "Impregnated" Polishing Cloth
- Specifically designed for use with sterling silver, gold, platinum or other precious metals
- Raised surface fibers lift off dust
- Impregnated with an anti-tarnish agent
- 100% cotton cloth woven using a special “W” binding system for a velvet-to-the-touch texture
Sunshine® Polishing Cloth
- Reusable polishing cloth gives jewelry long-lasting luster
- Non-staining, easy-to-use cloth is impregnated with a specially formulated cleansing agent and non-scratching micro abrasives
- Removes tarnish from gold, silver, platinum, copper and brass (not for use on pearls or plated items)
- Use cloth until completely soiled (do not wash)
Using a polishing cloth is straightforward:
- Gently rub the jewelry with the cloth to remove tarnish and dirt
- Avoid excessive pressure to prevent scratching
- Use separate cloths for different metals to avoid cross-contamination
Liquid Cleaners: Deep Cleaning Solutions
For a more thorough cleaning, especially for intricate designs and heavily tarnished pieces, liquid cleaners can be highly effective. Here's how to use them safely:
- Choose the Right Cleaner: Ensure the cleaner is suitable for the specific metal or gemstone.
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for soaking times and procedures.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the jewelry with water to remove any residue.
- Dry Completely: Use a soft cloth to dry the jewelry, preventing water spots and further tarnish.
Note: Avoid using liquid cleaners on porous gemstones or delicate materials.
Additional Tips for Cleaning Jewelry
- Regular Maintenance: Clean your jewelry regularly to prevent buildup of dirt and oils.
- Proper Storage: Store jewelry in a dry, cool place, preferably in individual pouches or compartments.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep jewelry away from household cleaners, chlorine and other harsh substances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does the toothpaste hack really work and is it good for jewelry?
A: While toothpaste can remove tarnish, it's abrasive and may scratch metals and gemstones. It's best to use products specifically designed for jewelry cleaning.
Q: Can I wear my jewelry everywhere, including the beach, exercising, etc.?
A: It's advisable to remove jewelry during activities like swimming, exercising or cleaning to prevent damage from sweat, chemicals and physical impact.
Q: How do you clean natural materials like bone, wood, etc.?
A: Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe these materials. Avoid soaking or using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the natural fibers.
Q: How often should I clean my jewelry?
A: Regularly clean jewelry worn daily, such as rings and bracelets, every 1-2 weeks. For pieces worn occasionally, clean them every few months or as needed.
Q: How can I prevent my jewelry from getting dirty or tarnished?
A: Store jewelry properly, avoid exposure to chemicals, and clean it regularly to maintain its appearance.
Q: Can I clean pearls at home?
A: Yes, gently wipe pearls with a soft, damp cloth after wearing. Avoid soaking them or using harsh cleaners, as pearls are delicate and porous.
For more detailed information on specific cleaning products and techniques, refer to these comprehensive guides:
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The pieces featured in the Gallery of Designs are copyrighted designs and are provided for inspiration only. We encourage you to substitute different colors, products and techniques to make the design your own.
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