How to clean jewelry - how to care for it?
Jewelry is both a stylish decoration and an investment that can last for years if properly cared for. Unfortunately, over time it gets dirty, loses its shine and can become dull. Regular cleaning not only restores its original appearance, but also prevents damage. Learn how to effectively care for your jewelry so that it always looks stunning.
Why is it important to clean your jewelry regularly?
Everyday use of jewellery exposes it to many factors that can negatively affect its appearance and durability. Sweat, dust, cosmetics and contact with water can cause dulling, discolouration and weakening of the structure of metals and precious stones. Regular cleaning helps to maintain the shine of jewellery, prevents dirt from settling and extends its life.
Taking care of your jewellery is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a way to avoid costly repairs. Proper care prevents micro-damage, which over time can lead to weakening of the structure of a given piece of jewellery, or even the loss of individual elements, e.g. rings with stones . When wearing jewelry every day, it is worth remembering that these are delicate decorations that require appropriate care.
How to prepare for cleaning jewelry?
Before you start cleaning your jewelry, it's worth doing some preparation. Not every method will be suitable for a specific type of jewelry.
What to avoid when cleaning jewelry?
Choosing the right care products and techniques is essential if you want to keep your jewelry looking its best. An incorrect approach can lead to scratches, dulling of the surface, and even permanent damage to metals and precious stones. When cleaning your jewelry, avoid:
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aggressive chemicals – ammonia, chlorine or other strong substances can permanently damage metals and precious stones;
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too hard brushes – scrubbing often causes micro-scratches;
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hot water for delicate stones – high temperatures may cause a colour change or weaken the structure of the glue in jewellery with stones.
Cleaning gold jewelry
Gold jewelry , such as 18-karat, requires a delicate approach. In such cases, the best home cleaning method is:
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Prepare a solution of warm water and a few drops of gentle dishwashing liquid.
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Soak the jewelry for a few minutes, then gently wipe it with a soft cloth.
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Dry thoroughly and polish with a soft cloth.
Cleaning silver jewelry
Silver tarnishes over time, so it requires proper care. To restore its shine, you can use a mild solution of water with baking soda or special preparations for cleaning this precious metal. Silver jewelry is best wiped gently with a soft cloth or immersed in a prepared solution for a few minutes, then thoroughly dried and polished. Detailed cleaning methods can be found in the guide How to Clean Silver Jewelry .
Cleaning gemstone jewelry
Gemstone jewelry requires special care because the stones are often more delicate than the metal in which they are set. Some minerals, such as opal, are susceptible to scratching and may dull when exposed to moisture and chemicals. Others, such as diamonds, although extremely hard, can chip if handled improperly. To clean jewelry with precious stones :
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avoid soaking in water so as not to weaken the mounting glue;
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use only a damp, soft cloth to wipe the surface;
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never use toothpaste or cleaning powders.
Cleaning gold plated jewelry
Cleaning gold-plated jewelry is a real challenge. Why? It requires special care, because the gold plating is thin and can wear off if not cared for properly. Unlike jewelry made entirely of gold, gold-plated items should not be soaked in water or subjected to intense friction. Simply wipe them with a damp cloth and a little soap.
How to care for jewelry on a daily basis to keep it looking new longer?
To keep your jewelry looking new for a long time, it is worth adopting a few simple care habits. Different materials have their own specific requirements, so it is important to adapt the way you clean and store them. These rules should become part of your daily routine if you want your jewelry to retain its shine and durability:
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remove jewelry before washing hands, bathing, playing sports, and doing housework;
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avoid contact with cosmetics, perfumes and cleaning products that may damage the surface;
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Store each piece separately in a box or bag to prevent delicate chains from scratching or tangling.
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Wipe your jewelry regularly with a soft cloth.
Home remedies for cleaning jewelry – are they worth it?
Home remedies, such as baking soda and vinegar or toothpaste, can be effective, but they are often ineffective or even harmful. Some substances can cause micro-damage or accelerate the process of dulling jewelry. They should be used with caution.
Professional jewelry cleaning – when is it worth it?
If you have valuable jewellery or are worried about damaging it, it is worth using the services of a jeweller. A specialist will use professional products and methods, ensuring safe and effective cleaning. At Berries, we also care about keeping your jewellery looking like new, which is why we offer professional care services, thanks to which you can refresh or repair your favourite jewellery.
