How to Safely Clean Gold Jewellery at Home
Gold jewellery can lose its shine over time due to daily wear, exposure to dirt, oils, and chemicals. Regular cleaning and proper storage can help maintain its beauty. Here's a quick guide:
- Common Issues: Tarnish, dullness, residue from lotions, perfumes, and sweat can affect gold jewellery.
- Cleaning at Home: Use warm water with mild dish soap, a soft toothbrush for gentle scrubbing, and rinse thoroughly. For stubborn grime, try a baking soda paste or a diluted ammonia solution (with caution).
- Avoid: Harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, or vinegar, and rough materials like paper towels or toothpaste, which can scratch or damage gold.
- Storage Tips: Keep pieces separate in soft pouches or lined boxes, away from heat and moisture.
- Professional Help: Seek professional cleaning every 6–12 months for heavily tarnished or delicate items.
How to Clean Gold Jewellery
Common Problems with Gold Jewellery
Even your most beloved gold jewellery isn't immune to the wear and tear of daily life. Over time, it can lose its brilliance and develop issues that, if ignored, could lead to permanent damage. Here’s a closer look at the most common problems and how they affect your treasured pieces.
Tarnish and Dullness
While pure gold itself doesn’t tarnish, most gold jewellery is made with alloys - metals like copper, silver, or nickel added to improve strength and durability. Unfortunately, these alloy metals are prone to tarnishing when exposed to moisture, oxygen, and sulphur compounds in the air. This results in dark spots and a lacklustre finish.
The carat of your gold plays a big role in how quickly tarnishing occurs. For example, 9-carat gold, which contains just 37.5% pure gold, tarnishes much faster than 18-carat gold, which is 75% gold. This is especially noticeable in humid climates or coastal areas where salt in the air speeds up the process.
Environmental factors like dampness and fluctuating temperatures also contribute to tarnish and dullness. Jewellery stored in humid bathrooms or left in hot cars can deteriorate more quickly. Additionally, the natural acids in your skin can react with the metal alloys, leading to dark spots in areas where the jewellery touches your skin most, such as ring bands or necklace clasps.
Dullness, on the other hand, is caused by a different process. Everyday wear leads to tiny scratches and the build-up of oils and dirt, which cloud the surface of your gold. This dulling effect robs your jewellery of its reflective shine, leaving it looking tired and worn.
Residue from Daily Wear
Your daily habits can leave behind an invisible layer of grime on your gold jewellery, slowly dimming its sparkle. Lotions, creams, and perfumes are some of the biggest culprits, as they leave behind oils and chemicals that attract dirt. Rings, in particular, are vulnerable because they’re in constant contact with your skin.
Perfumes and hairsprays are another problem. The alcohol and other chemicals in these products can react with the alloys in gold, causing discolouration. They also leave behind a sticky residue that dulls the metal’s shine. Earrings and necklaces are especially at risk since these products are often applied after putting on jewellery.
Sweat and natural body oils can also take a toll. During exercise or on hot days, perspiration mixes with the oils on your skin, creating a corrosive environment that not only dulls gold but can also cause skin discolouration - those green or black marks that sometimes appear after wearing certain pieces.
Makeup and cosmetics add to the problem. Foundation, powder, and concealer can settle into intricate designs, while soap residue builds up in chain links or around gemstone settings. Even products like sunscreen, which may seem harmless, often contain chemicals that react with gold over time.
If left unchecked, these residues can accelerate the dulling and discolouration of your jewellery, making regular cleaning and care essential to maintaining its shine and beauty.
How to Clean Gold Jewellery at Home
Bringing back the shine to your gold jewellery doesn’t have to mean a trip to the jeweller. With a few everyday household items, you can clean your pieces safely and effectively right at home.
Warm Water and Mild Dish Soap Method
This simple method is perfect for most gold jewellery. Start by filling a small bowl with lukewarm water - steer clear of hot water, as it could loosen stones or weaken settings. Add a couple of drops of mild, fragrance-free dish soap and mix gently.
Place your jewellery in the soapy water and let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes. For pieces with heavy grime, you can extend the soak to 20 minutes. Once soaked, use a soft toothbrush to carefully remove any lingering dirt.
Gentle Brushing with a Soft Toothbrush
A soft-bristled toothbrush, ideally one reserved just for cleaning jewellery, is your best tool for tackling stubborn spots. Use gentle circular motions, paying close attention to areas like chain links, prong settings, and engravings where dirt often builds up.
"Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub the jewellery to remove dirt and oils, then rinse the piece thoroughly with clean water and pat it dry with a soft cloth", advises Sarah Munro, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Sarah & Sebastian.
If dirt persists, avoid applying more pressure - soaking the piece for a little longer is a safer option. This ensures all debris is loosened before you move on to rinsing.
Rinsing and Drying
Once the brushing is done, rinse your jewellery under lukewarm running water to wash away all soap residue. Be thorough, as leftover soap can dull the shine. After rinsing, gently pat each piece dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
For solid gold items, such as those made from 9, 14, or 18-carat gold, a polishing cloth can add an extra touch of brilliance.
"A gentle polishing cloth will do wonders for your jewels", says Dalena Le, Head of Design for By Charlotte.
Deep Cleaning Methods for Stubborn Dirt
When regular cleaning just doesn’t cut it, and your gold needs a bit of extra attention to regain its shine, deep cleaning methods can come to the rescue. These approaches are designed to tackle built-up grime and restore your gold's brilliance, complementing the basic cleaning steps mentioned earlier. However, they do require a bit of extra care to ensure your precious items are cleaned thoroughly without causing any damage.
Baking Soda Paste Method
For gold jewellery with stubborn grime or tarnish, a baking soda paste can work wonders. To make the paste, mix three parts baking soda with one part water until it forms a thick, smooth consistency. Baking soda’s mild abrasive quality helps lift dirt and residue effectively, without being overly harsh on your gold.
Gently apply the paste using a soft cloth or your fingertips, focusing on areas where dirt tends to build up, like crevices or intricate designs. Be gentle - there’s no need to scrub hard. Let the paste sit for 5 to 10 minutes to break down the grime.
Once the paste has had time to work, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to carefully clean any detailed areas. Rinse your jewellery thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all traces of the baking soda, as leftover residue can dull the gold's shine. Immediately pat dry with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots.
Note: This method is best suited for solid gold pieces. If your jewellery includes delicate gemstones or pearls, stick to a gentler soap and water cleaning method to avoid potential damage.
If baking soda doesn’t do the trick, an ammonia-based solution might be your next option.
Ammonia-Based Solution
For gold jewellery that’s heavily tarnished or dull from exposure to lotions, perfumes, or environmental elements, an ammonia-based cleaning solution can offer a deeper clean. However, this method requires careful handling.
Mix one part household ammonia with six parts cold water in a small glass bowl - never use a metal container, as ammonia can react with certain metals.
Before you begin, ensure you’re in a well-ventilated space, and consider wearing rubber gloves to protect your hands. Take care not to inhale the fumes, as ammonia has a strong odour.
Soak your gold jewellery in the solution for no more than one minute. Ammonia is a powerful cleaner, and prolonged exposure could damage delicate finishes or settings. After soaking, rinse the jewellery thoroughly under cold running water for about 30 seconds to remove all traces of the solution.
Dry your jewellery immediately and thoroughly with a soft cloth, ensuring no moisture is left behind, especially in any small crevices. This method is particularly effective for restoring the shine to gold that has lost its lustre.
Safety Tips: Never mix ammonia with other cleaning products, especially those containing bleach, as this can create dangerous chemical reactions. Always store ammonia securely, out of reach of children and pets, and ensure the cap is tightly sealed after use.
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What Not to Do When Cleaning Gold Jewellery
While proper cleaning can bring back the shine to your gold jewellery, using the wrong techniques can cause irreversible damage. Gold, with a Mohs hardness rating of only 2.5–3, is particularly prone to scratches, discolouration, and even structural damage if handled improperly. Knowing what to avoid is just as important as understanding the best cleaning practices. These precautions work alongside the earlier cleaning tips to help keep your gold jewellery in top condition.
Harmful Chemicals to Avoid
Certain chemicals can wreak havoc on gold jewellery, leading to both visible and hidden damage:
- Chlorine and bleach: These are some of the most damaging substances for gold. They don't just harm the surface but can also weaken gold alloys, making them brittle and susceptible to cracking. This is why it's essential to remove gold jewellery before swimming in pools, soaking in hot tubs, or using cleaning products containing chlorine.
- Acidic substances: Natural cleaners like vinegar and lemon juice may sound harmless, but they can severely damage gold. Acids can corrode the metal and cause discolouration, particularly on gold-plated items where the thin gold layer may wear away, exposing the base metal underneath.
- Household cleaners with strong chemicals: Products such as window sprays, multi-purpose cleaners, and detergents often contain ammonia, which can strip gold of its shine and create pitting if not diluted correctly. Even commercial jewellery cleaners can be too harsh for regular use on gold, so always check the ingredients before use.
If your jewellery comes into contact with any of these substances, rinse it immediately with lukewarm water and pat it dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid trying additional cleaning methods and consult a professional jeweller to evaluate any damage. Beyond chemicals, the tools you use can also harm your jewellery.
Avoid Rough Materials
The materials and tools you choose for cleaning are just as critical as the cleaning solutions. Using abrasive items can leave scratches and dull the finish of your jewellery:
- Rough materials: Cotton pads, paper towels, rough sponges, and hard-bristled brushes can all damage gold. These items may seem harmless but can create micro-scratches that accumulate over time.
- Toothpaste: Often mistaken as a safe cleaner, toothpaste is actually too abrasive for gold. Its gritty texture can scratch the surface, leaving your jewellery looking worse than before.
- Baking soda: While baking soda can be used as a gentle paste, applying it dry or with excessive pressure can harm gold.
Here's a quick reference guide to cleaning materials:
| Cleaning Material | Safe for Gold? | Potential Damage |
|---|---|---|
| Mild dish soap + soft cloth | Yes | None when used properly |
| Bleach or chlorine products | No | Brittleness, cracking, discolouration |
| Vinegar or lemon juice | No | Corrosion, discolouration |
| Paper towels or rough cloths | No | Micro-scratches, dulled finish |
| Toothpaste | No | Surface scratches |
For the best results, always use soft, lint-free or microfibre cloths for drying and polishing. When cleaning intricate areas, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure.
If you're unsure about a cleaning method, test it on a small, hidden part of the jewellery first. For delicate pieces or those with gemstones, it's often safer to consult a professional jeweller. By following these precautions, you can help ensure your gold jewellery stays beautiful for years to come.
When to Get Professional Cleaning
While cleaning your jewellery at home can restore some sparkle, there are times when only a jeweller's expertise can truly bring your pieces back to their best. Professional cleaning uses specialised techniques that go far beyond what you can achieve with at-home methods.
Interestingly, a survey by Jewelers Mutual found that 39% of consumers have never had their jewellery professionally inspected. This means many people may be missing out on essential maintenance. Knowing when to turn to a professional can make all the difference in keeping your jewellery in top condition.
How Often to Get Professional Cleaning
To keep your gold jewellery in pristine shape, aim to schedule professional cleaning every 6–12 months. For high-end pieces worn regularly, inspections every three to four months are even better. These visits not only restore beauty but also help spot early signs of damage, protecting both the monetary and sentimental value of your jewellery. Plus, they offer peace of mind knowing your cherished items are well cared for.
Signs You Need Expert Help
Beyond routine maintenance, there are clear signs that your jewellery needs professional attention:
- Persistent tarnish or discolouration that doesn’t respond to home cleaning efforts.
- Intricate designs that are difficult to clean thoroughly at home.
- Structural problems like loose or missing stones, damaged prongs, broken chains or clasps, or bent rings.
- Visible scratches or clasps that no longer close securely.
Ignoring these signs can lead to more severe damage down the line. Timely professional care not only extends the life of your jewellery but also prevents small issues from turning into costly repairs. A quick fix today could save you from a major restoration project tomorrow.
How to Store and Maintain Gold Jewellery
Keeping your gold jewellery in top condition involves more than just occasional cleaning. Proper storage, handling, and daily care can go a long way in preserving its shine and preventing unnecessary damage.
Proper Storage Methods
Store pieces individually to avoid scratches and tangles. Use soft cloth pouches or jewellery boxes with compartments to keep items separate. Avoid using plastic bags, as they trap moisture, which can harm your jewellery. Instead, opt for breathable pouches or anti-tarnish cloth to protect against discolouration.
Choose a cool, dry place for storage, away from direct sunlight. Heat and humidity can speed up tarnishing and dull the metal's lustre. For necklaces and chains, hanging them on individual hooks or laying them flat can prevent tangling and kinking. Rings and earrings are best stored in velvet-lined drawers, which offer a soft surface to prevent scratches. These small steps help keep your gold jewellery in excellent condition.
When to Remove Your Jewellery
Certain activities expose gold jewellery to damaging elements. For instance, avoid wearing it while swimming in chlorinated pools or seawater, as both chlorine and salt can cause tarnishing. Similarly, remove your jewellery before exercising, as sweat contains acids that can dull gold over time.
Take off your pieces during household cleaning to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals that can damage the metal or loosen stones. When applying perfumes, lotions, or hairspray, always do so before putting on your jewellery. These products can leave a residue that dulls gold's natural shine. Adjusting your routine in this way helps minimise damage and reduces the need for frequent cleaning.
Daily Care Tips
After each wear, wipe your jewellery with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove oils and residues. This simple habit helps prevent build-up that can dull the surface over time.
Inspect clasps and settings regularly to ensure they’re secure. Loose stones or worn clasps are easier to address when caught early, saving you from potential loss or costly repairs. For chains, give them a gentle tug to check for weak points that might need attention.
Rotate your jewellery pieces to avoid overusing any one item. This not only extends the life of each piece but also adds variety to your daily wear. Keep a dedicated jewellery cloth handy for quick touch-ups, restoring shine and removing fingerprints on the go.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Gold Jewellery Looking Its Best
Taking care of your gold jewellery doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the methods shared in this guide - like gentle soap cleaning and proper storage - you can help preserve the beauty and lifespan of your favourite pieces. Regular home care can bring back the shine of your jewellery and keep it looking radiant between more thorough cleanings.
One of the most important aspects of gold care is steering clear of harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Substances like chlorine and bleach can damage gold plating, cause scratches, and even loosen gemstones. Instead, stick to warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. These simple tools are effective at cleaning your jewellery while protecting its structure and finish.
For an added layer of care, consider professional cleaning every 6–12 months. This is especially helpful for jewellery with intricate designs or valuable gemstones. Professional jewellers can spot issues like loose stones or worn settings early, saving you from costly repairs down the line. If you own handcrafted pieces from Ottoman Hands Jewellery, their delicate 21ct gold plating and unique designs deserve this extra attention. Pairing professional maintenance with your regular care routine ensures your jewellery stays in excellent condition for years to come.
FAQs
How can I stop my gold jewellery from tarnishing, especially in humid weather?
To protect your gold jewellery from tarnishing in humid conditions, keep it in a cool, dry spot, well away from moisture-heavy areas like bathrooms. Opt for airtight containers or anti-tarnish pouches, and consider adding silica gel packets to help absorb any excess moisture.
If you want to take it a step further, using a dehumidifier in the room where your jewellery is stored can help keep the humidity in check. Also, make it a habit to clean your gold pieces regularly and minimise contact with sweat, perfumes, and lotions to maintain their shine and prevent tarnishing over time.
What should I do if my gold jewellery comes into contact with harsh chemicals like bleach?
If your gold jewellery comes into contact with harsh chemicals like bleach, rinse it straight away with warm water to wash off any residue. Then, gently pat it dry with a lint-free cloth to minimise the risk of further damage.
Steer clear of abrasive materials or additional cleaning products, as these can aggravate the problem. Should you notice discolouration, weakening, or any other signs of damage, it’s wise to consult a professional jeweller for assessment and repair. Harsh chemicals can cause lasting harm to the metals in gold, so acting quickly is crucial.
Do certain types of gold jewellery need professional cleaning more often?
Yes, some types of gold jewellery need more frequent professional cleaning to keep them looking their best and lasting longer. Items with intricate designs, delicate details, or gemstones - like engagement rings or statement necklaces - tend to collect dirt more easily and may benefit from expert cleaning every few months. Similarly, heirloom pieces or jewellery with high monetary or sentimental value should be cleaned professionally on a regular basis to maintain their condition.
For everyday items such as rings, bracelets, or necklaces that come into contact with lotions, perfumes, or the general wear and tear of daily life, professional cleaning can bring back their shine and prevent potential damage over time. It's always a good idea to check with a trusted jeweller for personalised advice on how to care for your specific pieces.
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