Whether it’s your favorite diamond engagement ring or a simple copper pair of earrings, jewellery can get pretty dirty over time. Oil and dander from hands, dust, soap build-up and other grime accumulate on jewelry, making it appear dull and stealing its sparkle. It’s important to keep a regular cleaning schedule and there are safe ways to do this without scratching or damaging your pieces.
Most jewellery cleaners are liquids that you submerge jewelry in or cleaners that you can apply to a toothbrush and scrub. Some are made specifically for gemstones, while others are effective on a variety of metals and non-porous stones.
There are also jewellery cleaning machines that use sound waves, steam or water pressure to clean your gems and jewellery. These can be great for large groups of jewellery, but be careful as they are often expensive and can damage delicate jewelry.
You can also make your own jewellery cleaner at home using common household items. Many recipes are easy to follow and can help you achieve the same results as store-bought jewellery cleaners. For example, you can mix a solution of warm water and a bit of dish soap or try using vinegar for a quick clean.
One of the most common and effective methods for cleaning jewelry is to soak it in ammonia, but this is not a good idea with pearls or opals, and should be used sparingly and only when necessary. For gold and other solid metals, it’s a great way to get rid of stubborn dirt and grime.