Last updated on March 14th, 2023
For thousands of years, the durability and radiance of gold jewelry have represented riches and rank. The 24-carat pure gold is a soft metal that is easily scratched. While 14-karat and 10-karat jewelry are still made of “genuine gold,” other alloys or metals are added to the gold to make it harder and more durable.
Since practically all jewelry is worn close to the body, it may collect dirt, bacteria, body oils, makeup, and other contaminants. Gold loses its brilliance due to all this accumulation. Gold jewelry will remain sparkling for decades with regular maintenance. Follow the steps below to discover the finest at-home method.
How Often Should You Clean Your Gold Jewellery?
Gold jewelry needs to be cleaned regularly depending on how frequently it is worn. Although gold doesn’t tarnish as quickly as silver, prolonged use, and handling can diminish its appearance. If exposed to pollutants like alcohol, chlorine, acids, and sulfur compounds, lower karat gold with more alloys will tarnish. Frequently worn jewelry must be maintained at least once a month or more frequently if the finish starts to look worn.
How to Clean Your Gold Jewelry:
1. Create a cleaning solution
In a small bowl, fill up some warm water. Make sure that the bowl is big enough to accommodate the entire gold jewelry item. Add a few drops of dish soap to it and then mix it all together properly. To avoid scratching the gold jewelry, clean one or two items at a time.
2. Soak it for half an hour
Place your gold jewelry in the bowl and let it soak for some time. The soap helps in breaking down grease and stains on the surface.
3. Use a soft toothbrush for tough stains
You might need to gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristled brush if it looks unclean. A light scrape will remove any embedded soil.
4. Rinse it off and pat it dry
After soaking, rinse the gold jewelry with water and then dry it with a soft cotton cloth. Avoid using a paper towel on the surface since the fibers could scratch it, especially if the gold is of a higher karat.
How to Maintain Your Gold Jewelry:
• While cleaning your hands or taking a bath, take off your gold jewelry to avoid soap scum building up on the surface.
• Before visiting a beach, hot tub, or pool, take off all jewelry. Chlorine, acids, sulfur, and salt are among the harsh substances that can harm or stain gold, especially gold that is lesser than 24 karats. Chlorine may cause the structure of your gold jewelry to deteriorate and possibly break.
• Do not let medicinal lotions, creams, hairsprays, or makeup come in contact with gold jewelry.
• To prevent pieces from scratching one another and dulling the finish, carefully keep gold jewelry in distinct compartments of a jewelry box with a cloth lining.
• Ideally, ammonia should not be used to clean gold. Some people use it to clean their jewelry thoroughly. But use caution. Overusing it may cause your gold to lose value. Be cautious while using ammonia since it may not be safe for other forms of jewelry like platinum or pearls.
When is it Time to Go to the Jeweler?
Concerned that your gold jewelry is maybe getting ruined? Take your pieces to a qualified jeweler if they are still lackluster or discolored after cleaning. The jeweler will be able to bring back the original beauty of your piece.
Jewelers not only clean but also examine stone settings and prongs. Most stores where you have bought jewelry items may provide free cleaning once a year. Jewelers advise that you bring your often-worn jewelry items to be cleaned at least once every year.
Summing Up
Loving these tips? Stay on top of your cleaning and organization game by browsing through similar articles on Homebliss. We have a huge collection of articles related to home cleaning, hacks, tips, and more!
